From the TR1 of 1952 through the TR250 of 1968, Triumph Motor Company’s line of TR sports cars were both groundbreaking and commercially successful. By 1968, though, the TR5/TR250 design had run its course and Triumph looked to renew its flagship sports car for 1969. Michelotti, the designer of the TR250, was unable to commit to the new project and, in their place, Karmann of West Germany was awarded the contract. Utilizing many of the same lines, even body elements such as doors, Karmann focused on improving the aerodynamics of the new-for-1969 TR6, most notably with the inclusion of a Kamm tail to minimize wind resistance.

To the sports car enthusiast in the early 1970s, the TR6 offered speed, a throaty engine note, a smooth four-speed gearbox, and exceptional road handling housed in a masculine, convertible body. Nearly 50 years after the design was penned, the TR6 is still considered to be one of the quintessential and desirable cars from the legendary Coventry manufacturer.

The TR6 offered here was sold new to John (Jack) R. Clark of Utica, Michigan, on 15 October 1976. Clark purchased the car at Falvey Motors of Troy, Michigan, which is now part of the well-known Troy Motor Mall. At the time of purchase Mr. Clark requested that the car be corrosion proofed, as proven by the extant certificate of treatment as well as the sill plugs through which the treatment was applied. Apparently the protection was applied with gusto, as service documents show Mr. Clark brought the car back to Falvey a month after purchasing the car simply to remove excess protectant.

Service records show that the car was routinely serviced at Falvey Motors, and a file of original service invoices is included with the car. Also included with the car are the original British Leyland “Passport to Service,” the original jack and lug wrench, owner’s manual, and the original set of spare keys.

After nearly 40 years of stewardship, Clark sold the car to well-known enthusiast Larry Smith, also of Michigan. Smith then performed a cosmetic update on the otherwise original condition car, including the installation of a new old-stock left front fender due to minor rust damage to the original fender, and a fresh repaint in the original Inca Yellow. The engine bay appears largely original with the exception of a new radiator and refinished valve cover and air filter box. The interior appears to be original and in good condition. The underside of the car has not been restored and shows signs of use consistent with 41 years of enjoyment.

With just 39,752 original miles on the odometer and service history from new to confirm this reading, this two-owner 1976 Triumph TR6 is a fine and drivable example of one of the most popular production sports cars of the 1970s.