Triumph TR7 Convertible
Reviewed by Unique Cars and Parts
Our Rating: 2
Introduction
TR sports cars had emanated from Triumph's works since the 1950's, making them a household word where performance didn't necessarily mean an astronomic price tag. 1980 saw the introduction of a new open TR, the TR7 Connvertible - sadly the same year witnessing the end of Triumph car prooduction at the Canley (Coventry) works where Spitfire and Dolomite manufacture came to a halt.
Due to the fact that open car legislation worldwide was less severe than at first expected, Triumph determined to devise an open version of the TR7 coupe. In 1980 the USA did not introduce the expected new legislation to prevent sales of open sports cars and convertibles that were not equipped with roll-over safety bars. British Leyland's treatment of the TR7 in convertible form was refreshing, the often too rare sight of a tin-top minus the roof in the case of the TR7 working extremely well, and the absence of a 'Targa top' endowing it with a slim, elegant look.
The hood too folded away in a neat manner, and was not a lengthy operation. The TR7 Convertible retained identical mechanicals to the Coupe, the engine being a two-litre version of the eight-valve 'Dolomite' engine, or, if you like, an eight-valve edition of the 16-valve 'Dolomite Sprint' motor. The five-speed gearbox was light and easy to operate, and stemmed from the British Leyland Rover SD1 unit (also used in the Series 111 Jaguar and Daimler models)
Rear drive was to a live axle, and at the time was regarded by some obbservers as dated but it mads for easy production (and this in turn made the car a viable prodution option), and minimised price levels. The Convertible at 2315 Ib (1050 kg) was a little heavier than the closed TR7, but there was considerable comfort for two (and a large luggage boot) and a top speed of 109 mph (175 km/h) which, in view of the simple layout, was pretty reasonable.
