1980 Triumph TR7 Convertible – 21,000 miles, as new ‘time warp’ condition & signed by Harris Mann

This very low mileage example is in incredible time warp & highly-original condition, not only does it look like a new car it drives like one as well, with no rattles, bumps or squeaks; the steering is direct, gear changes smooth & brakes are sharp.

Code-named ‘Bullet’, the TR7 was the work of British Leyland’s legendary & controversial chief designer Harris Mann and this car has actually been signed by the man himself inside the boot.

As well the innovative design, the TR7 was a first to sport a monocoque chassis and featured all-round coil-sprung suspension, rack and pinion steering and disc / drum brakes, offering a level of comfort and roadholding not yet seen in a Triumph sports car, and performance from its 2-litre engine was more than a match for the contemporary MGB, road tests claiming 0-60mph in 9.1 seconds and 110mph – not too shabby in the ‘70s.
Launched in 1979 the convertible was almost universally hailed as better looking than its coupe sibling. Surprisingly refined & well received it unfortunately arrived too late to resuscitate the model’s fortunes and was discontinued two years later – though typical British Leyland stockpiling meant that sales continued into 1982.

Despatched from the Leyland factory in June 1980, this Canley-built example is finished in striking Pendelican White. Registered in August of the same year by the supplying dealer (Lex Mead of Exeter), this time warp example retains the original dealer stickers to both the windscreen and rear screen. The white paintwork is complemented by contrasting ‘Blue Check’ upholstered interior in outstanding condition. The car was correctly supplied with a rare radio blanking-plate, in lieu of the radio unit, that was still a pricey optional extra in 1980. Unusually, it comes with the full selection of weather gear, including hood, part tonneau and rare full tonneau which features the extra stud fittings on the door-tops and dashboard.
The file confirms just 6 former keepers & includes the owner’s handbook and pouch, sales brochure and a selection of expired MOT certificates / receipts supporting the low mileage.

Currently riding on a later set of smart alloys the original ‘factory wheels’, correctly date-stamped, are included in the sale.

With 12 months MOT this makes a wonderful useable & practical classic and with good examples of these cars becoming increasingly difficult to find this is a rare opportunity to buy a highly original car which would happily grace any serious collection, we think this must be the best original condition TR7 on the market.