TR7 DHC

After 4yrs BL finally got it right but the exchange rate ($2.40 to the pound) killed it.

I bought mine in 1981 (not 2006 - the dropdown box goes no older)and it has never been restored or off the road. It is one of the most reliable cars I have ever owned, although only done 70,000m. The only major failure has been the water pump.

In 1976 the first ugly hard-top cars badly built at Speke ruined its reputation. So in 1980 the production line moved down to Canley which began making good quality convertibles with the better LT77 5speed gearbox used in V8 Rovers. Unfortunately, the $ peaked at 2.40 to the £ (yes, really!) making them too expensive in the USA where British sports cars must sell or die. So production ceased in 1981. Compared with the surviving thousands of MGBs and TR6s, the TR7 DHC is a rare car. Only a few hundred are licensed according to a ‘how many are left’ website and unrestored originals are rarely seen.

It is well engineered with nice touches. The reliable chain cam Triumph slanted 4cyl 1998cc engine (reminiscent of the Merc Gullwing slant 6, also used by aerodynamic Saabs) plus pop-up headlights allow the very low bonnet wedge style. The smooth lines flow backwards unimpeded by the soft top which stows neatly. When up, the rear window can be unzipped open. One wiper is cantilevered. There are slots for the seat belt buckles. You can have copious hot air in the foot wells and cool air to the face – impossible in most modern cars. Rear wheel drive makes them fun to drive, and with the driver's window down and passenger window raised there is virtually no buffeting - on the driver's side!

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