[{"id": 1565967, "authorName": "Lavaman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/lavaman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The preteen me when these were new thought these were the coolest thing in the world.", "likes": 15, "timestamp": 1496457630, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1565970, "authorName": "Gary_T1", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gary_t1/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Had a TR7. Fun to drive, handled well. This has the Rover V8, more power, probably even MORE fun to drive, especially with the top down. Most of these were unloved and when rusted or run out, they were junked. Not too many around, especially looking like this one. With no reserve, we could see some spirited bidding. I have two cars now with one of them parked outside so I won't be involved........sure would be nice to be driving this one this summer, though.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1496457877, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1565991, "authorName": "JScotty", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jscotty/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "It's such a shame that Triumph came out with the TR8 just as it was fading from the scene. Not only do you get the V8 but from what I understand these weren't too bad reliability-wise. And the 'vert of course looked a lot better than the initial coupe. If only they could have brought this car out in '75.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496458884, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566017, "authorName": "orsrf", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/orsrf/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I owned a 1980 model. Bought it new in Denver Colorado. Wonderful to drive it in the Summer with the top down in the Rockies, or the Black Hills of South Dakota. Excellent steering and gear box, felt like a kart. And that 3.5L Buick V8 engine sounded great winding out. \n\nWinter in Denver however was a different story\u2026.the carb version (1980) was very hard starting in cold weather, no choke plates in those P.O.S carbs and involved lots of cranking. And the oil in the shocks turned to molasses so the only suspension on a cold winter day driving to work was the air in the tires. And the brakes were weak. Scared myself silly coming down from Estes Park one day. \n\nHad great plans to address all the deficiencies with aftermarket goodies, similar to what is listed for this TR8 but sadly lost my sense of priorities and sold it to qualify to buy a house. One thing to watch tho is speedo swaps. My 1980 TR8 came with the Fed mandated (was it?) 80 (??) MPH speedo. It was easy to swap out for the Euro 140MPH speedo and when swapped re-set the mileage in the odometer. \n\nBAT is one of the best car sites out there. Keep up the good work!", "likes": 7, "timestamp": 1496459953, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566028, "authorName": "Rich_Truett", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rich_truett/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I'm just now starting on the restoration of a 1981 TR8 that I snagged off eBay a month ago for $4,500. This is my eighth TR8. My latest car is solid, no rust, but has a slew of mechanical and body hardware issues that need sorting.\nTwo years ago, I sold a 1980 TR8 just like this one, Persian Aqua, the best color in my opinion, for the TR8. \nThis car looks very, very solid and complete and looks to have had respectable maintenance.\nI'd like to see the top of the engine and how the Holley carb is plumbed in with regard to the crankcase ventilation, fuel line and throttle cable. Nearly every car I have seen this conversion has been done sloppily. For instance, the best way to handle crankcase ventilation is to use the PCV port on the carb and install a PCV on the right-side valve cover using a rubber grommet you find (I think for a Chrysler) in the HELP section of auto parts stores.\nMost people just run a hose from the valve cover to the air cleaner. But that sucks oil into the air cleaner.\nThe catalytic converters are gone, which might make it difficult to register the car in California.\nNow: if you want to really make the TR8 into an enjoyable sports car, here's how to do it:\n(1) Brakes: Change to 4-pot Rover SD1 calipers, have the proportioning valve recalibrated by TS Imports in Pandora, Ohio\n(2) Shocks: KYB gas-charged on all four corners\n(3) Springs: get the stiffer one-inch lowered units\n(4) Bushings: switch to the hard rubber bushings, not the poly bushes.\n(5) Anti-roll bars: thicker bars are available front and rear\n(6) Transmission: drain factory fill automatic transmission fluid and replace with GM Synchromesh available at Chevy dealers. Remove shifter and cut 2 inches off the top end, rethread for shift knob and re-install.\n(7) Cooling system: Replace Magneti Marelli radiator fans with Porsche Boxster fans (1997-04).\n\nIf any engine surgery is required, replace 8.13:1 compression pistons with 9.25 and install a mild street cam. A set of headers will also add some extra verve.\n\nFrom the factory, these cars were soft and not particularly quick. However, Triumph had the bones of a great sports car there. It is relatively inexpensive to make these changes and transform the car to one that handles like a slot car and is much faster and that stops properly -- while not altering the looks.\nI'll be watching this one because I will kick off the bidding.", "likes": 36, "timestamp": 1496461112, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566033, "authorName": "Rich_Truett", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rich_truett/", "bidAmount": 3528, "content": "$3,528 bid placed by Rich Truett", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496461129, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1566035, "authorName": "Rich_Truett", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rich_truett/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "TR8 Parts sources:\n\nRimmer Brothers (England)\nRoadster Factory\nBritish Parts Northwest\nTS Imported\nWedge Shop\nD&D Fabrications (engine parts/performance parts)\n\nYou can get whatever you need for the TR8 from these businesses. And the best thing: parts prices are very reasonable compared with other sports cars from other countries.", "likes": 16, "timestamp": 1496461439, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566041, "authorName": "sego", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/sego/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Needs a few engine bay shots.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496461928, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566073, "authorName": "Miatadon", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/miatadon/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I have owned two TR8s, both low-mileage unmodified examples. These are great driving little cars, but the build quality is awful. Overheating was an issue for sure, and on on of my TR8s was likely due to the electric fans not working as they should. If you can get the problems resolved on one, you will find it a very enjoyable car to drive.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1496464286, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566089, "authorName": "velorex", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/velorex/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Why do transmissions have to be \"mated\" or \"paired\" and wheels \"wrapped [with tires]?\"\nCan't BaT afford a decent copy writing? The hackneyed, craigslist standard is grating. Please fire the hack or fix his lazy ways.", "likes": 13, "timestamp": 1496466599, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566088, "authorName": "Super7Driver", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/super7driver/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Loved these as a teenager in the mid 80's when I had a TR4A. As others have said, most faded away long ago... this one looks great, love the color and the tartan. Weird that there are no engine-bay shots! Good luck with the sale...", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1496466611, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566106, "authorName": "CactusVince", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cactusvince/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Ooh la la. Very nice. I agree, one of the best color combinations for a TR8. \nMine was gold. Still loved the way you could snick it down a gear, bury the throttle, and surprise just about any pony car on US 30 or Lake Shore Drive.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1496468470, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566119, "authorName": "CactusVince", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cactusvince/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Sorry, I have to add that the burble that car's exhaust made was like none other... the seats were crap, absolute crap, but I never cared", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1496469368, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566123, "authorName": "bringatrailer", "authorUrl": "", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Engine bay photos have been added to the gallery", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496469653, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566138, "authorName": "SirRaoulDuke", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/sirraoulduke/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Is it me, or is the driver seat crooked? Maybe a camera angle thing, or due to wear and sagging on the outside bolster. That plaid is sharp.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496471668, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566141, "authorName": "ClintonF", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/clintonf/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@velorex; i've noticed quite a variety in the copywriting here on BaT... of course some examples better than others. I submitted a couple of samples some weeks back hoping to get the job but never got a response. I get the feeling they've been inundated with the increase in the auction biz and are just managing to hold it together. Overall, the writing presents in a unified manner and maybe a little QC would go a long way. \n\nI love the TR8. I went to check one out a few years ago and thoroughly enjoyed it... unfortunately my wife didn't and that was that. Best of lick with the auction.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1496472100, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566144, "authorName": "Otto_cycle", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/otto_cycle/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "+1 Lavaman: my teenaged self thought these were cool too. Then freshman year of college I fell in love with a pretty blue-eyed woman who preferred to drive her new Fiesta barefoot. Better clutch pedal feel, she claimed. I taught her about lift-throttle oversteer, and we both forgot about TR-8s and MGs forever. \n\nNice memories, good luck to the dedicated buyer.", "likes": 11, "timestamp": 1496472470, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566147, "authorName": "Raffi", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/raffi/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "\"The Shape of Things to Come\"\n\nThis was the hallmark tagline that accompanied the all new TR7 design. Though the promise was never fulfilled, the shape itself remains a rather unique visual statement that paradoxically retains novel freshness today. Though it never spawned widespread influence in design, it was finally fed the proper power in the TR8 variant which (like the V6 Fiero GT) sadly only signaled departure. And while they have never garnered universal acclaim, a nice example has become increasingly challenging to find. This example appears to be both well maintained and nicely optioned.\n\nGLWTA!!", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496473144, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566178, "authorName": "ClintonF", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/clintonf/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Best of *luck* with the auction.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496483551, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566180, "authorName": "impster", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/impster/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The TR8 / 7 community is very knowledgeable and helpful, more so than for any other marque I've ever owned. The Triumph Wedge Owners Assoc. http://www.triumphwedgeowners.org/ has some extremely dedicated members, a number of whom compile info, perform comparison testing of aftermarket parts, create and/or work for the creation of unavailable parts, and provide assistance for keeping the cars on the road. The quarterly newsletter usually contains detailed technical info or if you can't find what you want there, the mailing list can provide nearly instantaneous responses to your questions. Though there may not be the shear number of wedge experts out there as there are for other cars, the intensity and commitment of those who support our cars are second to none.", "likes": 6, "timestamp": 1496484387, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566181, "authorName": "msmiranda", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/msmiranda/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I remember that ad campaign when these first were introduced @Raffi. And they called it \"The Wedge.\"", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496484645, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566193, "authorName": "mikeor", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mikeor/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "When I received my Vintage Triumph Register newsletter with the headline \"Triumph to Cease Production\" (or something like that) I knew I had to get a new TR8! Even though we already had a TR7 Coupe and a Stag I contacted two nearby Triumph dealers and found a Gold one with Tan interior at the dealer in Connecticut. And believe it or not they were offering a $1,000 REBATE on the car AND a 1.9% interest rate for up to 5 years! Not only that but they discounted the car to us by about $1,500. So all in, if I remember it correctly, the car had an MSRP of about $11,000 so with the rebate and discount we were all in for less than $10,000 with tax, title, etc.\n\nThe car was a blast to drive, used by my wife as a daily commuter for about 3 years until we could afford to make it a summer only car and get a more practical commuter. We had absolutely no issues with it, it looked 'futuristic' at that time ('The Shape of Things to Come\"), took it to many Marque and British car events over the 12 or so years we owned it. One event was the VTR Annual Meet on Long Island NY where we took 1st place in the TR7/8 category. Somewhere I have a photo of our TR7, Stag and the TR8 on our front lawn lined up together.\n\nFor the last several years we owned it we only put less than 1,000 miles a year on it and reluctantly felt it was time to sell to someone who would get more use and enjoyment out of it. It had about 13,000 miles on it at that time, not a ding or scratch on it inside or out, ran like it was right out of the showroom, completely original. We ran some ads on the car and thought that if we were going to sell it we would shoot for the moon. Other cars were selling for 5-10,000 at the time, we listed ours for $15,000. Within a short time I was contacted by a lawyer in Florida, sent some photos via US Mail (funny to think of doing that today!) and after a couple of negotiations, we sold the car for $13,000. Not bad for all those years of ownership and the price we paid for the car new! \n\nShe arranged for enclosed truck transport to Florida and my last drive in the car was to meet the carrier at our Church parking lot for loading on the trailer. That was a sad day, my only consolation being the money we had in our bank account!\n\nI've always thought we sold it at the height of it's popularity and demand and although I didn't really follow the market on these I am not aware of them selling for close to what we sold ours for. I wish the seller well and hope the car gets the attention and price it deserves.", "likes": 26, "timestamp": 1496486847, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566202, "authorName": "Keith_T", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/keith_t/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I've forever associated the TR7 with a toad in my mind due to my high school aviation science teacher driving a very green one. He was a cross between Paul Williams on a good day and Sam Kinison on a bad one, or vice versa I never knew which, a little toad of a man, quite brilliant in his way but somewhat stunted in his ambitions much like his car. The annual paper airplane contest in the football stadium to his credit was quite an event and an enjoyable one, his occasional shining moment. He was a TR8 in Persian Aqua for a day.", "likes": 10, "timestamp": 1496487718, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566203, "authorName": "Keith_T", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/keith_t/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The black linear d\u00e9grad\u00e9 graphics on this car are very well preserved and a very nice period touch, too.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496488664, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566222, "authorName": "darthmustang", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/darthmustang/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The Shape of Things to Come...ok, maybe more for other marques than it was Triumph, but the TR7/TR8 had great lines (cutting edge styling as it were) and I will always remember it pulling it into a wedge shaped garage at the end of the commercial, thinking that was pretty cool.", "likes": 7, "timestamp": 1496491439, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566228, "authorName": "brindleb", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/brindleb/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Holley carburetors?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496491943, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566234, "authorName": "Rich_Truett", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rich_truett/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Miatadon: The build quality of the TR8 is actually NOT awful. In fact, it's quite good compared with other British cars of the time. By 1980, the TR7's bugs were worked out, and it was a pretty reliable car -- with proper (read: aggressive) maintenance. \nNow, some of the parts used on the TR7 and TR8 were not of high quality and lacked durability. Trim parts, plastic parts, rubber parts, were a bit of a weak point. \nOn the TR8 I just bought, both window regulators are shot. That ain't build quality. That's 36 years of wear. And it was cured by picking off two NOS ones on eBay for a total of $158 delivered to my door. Point is: These cars are easy and inexpensive to repair and maintain.", "likes": 8, "timestamp": 1496492343, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566277, "authorName": "Richard_Ridge", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/richard_ridge/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Arguably the convertible version of the TR7 is the looker. Always wondered whether it and not the coupe version came first, at least in the designer's head. The bumpers looks to be part of the original design and not an afterthought. Is it possible that the rear bumper also meets the 5mph standard?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496495327, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566278, "authorName": "JiminRichmond", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jiminrichmond/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I have a 1978 TR8 pre-production coupe with an automatic, fabric sunroof and (originally) a/c. I did get it running and made it to cars and coffee but it has been sitting under cover in the garage for too long (life's just so busy!). As many will know, Triumph sent about 145 of these to the dealers as demonstrators. Mine needs work on the tranny and the leaky steering rack and could make a nice weekly driver.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496495337, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566296, "authorName": "JTW", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jtw/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I still have the TR7 plastic model that I built around 1978. Yellow coupe. Black top and stripes. It's in a box somewhere.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496496217, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566301, "authorName": "33EJB", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/33ejb/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Rich Truett:\r\n\"The build quality of the TR8 is... quite good compared with other British cars of the time.\"\r\n\r\nEver heard the saying: \"Damning with faint praise\"? ;)\r\n\r\nJK... GLWTS.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1496496367, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566336, "authorName": "amigaboy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/amigaboy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I bought one just like this a couple years ago and just got it out of storage this past Sunday (we have had the wettest winter/spring in history in Seattle this year - I am not exaggerating). Mine is this same color, with the Strombergs, but 75K miles. Planned mods include actual headrests or just a seat swap - throw the originals in storage - the headrests on the stock seats aren't tall enough and are like putting your head on a brick compared even to those in my Syncro or New Beetle.\n\nWhat's fun about this car is the comparative rarity (although a nice green one just sold on CL locally for about 8K), the unique styling (yes, some hate it but to me, in a world where every new mid-size sedan looks like an even bigger 'worn soap bar' - call it 'Taurus II Syndrome' - give me sharp angles anyday) or is an overpriced spywaremobile like a Tesla or any american car for now over a decade, this is pure gold. And as noted elsewhere here, the Speke cars (meaning last runs of TR7 and all the TR8s) were good build quality - the anti-Thatcher factory sabotage was all the earlier years of Liverpool TR7s, sadly.\n\nBut it's hard not to just put the foot down and blast away on the freeway - unlike the Syncro, this car has *powah* - my Subaru buddies comment on 135hp vs their tweaked out 235hp WRX's - but to me that just invites tickets, people :)\n\nZoom Zoom!\n\namigaboy\nSeattle", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1496497777, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566341, "authorName": "oldone2", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/oldone2/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Here we go again. Buy this car. I had a TR 8 that I sold earlier this year. It was no fault and low miles while this car has a few squawks....but no reserve. \n\nThe \"8s\" are underrated and undervalued. They run rings around same vintage \"sports\" cars and driving quality is very good. Consider only the factory built 8 not a converted 7.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496497893, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566344, "authorName": "masernut", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/masernut/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "How did the British engineers manage to wring out 133hp from a 3.5 liter Rover V8?", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1496498011, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566362, "authorName": "nicholsp", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/nicholsp/", "bidAmount": 3901, "content": "$3,901 bid placed by nicholsp", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496498963, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1566365, "authorName": "cal55", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cal55/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I had a gold one I bought around15 years ago or so. It had low miles around 25,000 and the motor was built by a previous owner. I believe it had Dart heads, a forged crank and pistons, a mild cam, Holley carb, headers, Flowmasters. I'm not sure what the horsepower was but it was pretty quick and sounded like a muscle car, which I guess it was in it's own right. GLWTS it looks like a nice car!", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496499319, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566370, "authorName": "RipM", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ripm/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "really neat little car ... the styling is looking better with time. I haven't driven one but every owner seems to love the handling. Too bad it came towards the end of the long slow and painful suicide of the British auto industry", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496499367, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566398, "authorName": "2hecknback", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/2hecknback/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "These are an absolute hoot to drive. For performance/dollar, they can't be beat by anything of similar vintage. Reminds me a lot of the wife's Sunbeam Tiger, a fast little British/American V8 (TR8 has a Buick-design motor) slot car. It also is a bit of a Q-car, like the Tiger, since it can be mistaken for its modestly powered predecessor. Also like the Tiger, the TR7/V8 was rallied with some notable finishes (see Tony Pond). The styling is an acquired taste, but certainly innovative and unique, which imho gains cool factor as it ages. At the time Giugiaro commented, after viewing a TR7 for the first time, \"Oh my god, they've done it to both sides,\" referring to the swoosh. Either way, you will be watching the road when you drive one, not looking at it. You'll be busy enough trying to wipe the s*#t eating grin off your face.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496501006, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566412, "authorName": "Crazyas00", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/crazyas00/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I have always liked these cars. It does look better in convertible form. My friend at British Leyland got an early production coupe to play with. He let me drive it. It was fast And it handled. And nobody knew what it was. They were potent competition cats. John Buffam had a Pro Rally car. And Group 44 ran an IMSA GTO team. Both had success. Nice car!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496501892, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566413, "authorName": "CascoPhil", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cascophil/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I nearly bought one of these back when they were new but wife and kid made that a bad choice. Never stopped wanting one tho'. ;)\nMost had Strombergs but Bosch injection was peppier. While I can't go for this one's mods, they will suit some one. GLWTA", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496501962, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566426, "authorName": "carsick52", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/carsick52/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I bought a used 1975 TR7 in 1978 because everybody else had Z cars. The first night I had it I decided to go for a drive around the block. It was cold outside and I was in my pajamas and a robe. What could go wrong? It was at that time that I was introduced to the \"Prince of Darkness\"(Lucas electronics). The lights, the engine, everything went dead. I prayed to the car Gods to please let allow this car to start. After awhile, my prayers were answered and I made it back home. I acted like this event never occurred because everybody had told me not buy the car. They were right! It stayed in the shop and after a couple of years I swallowed my pride and found some other DA to buy it. I do think the TR8\"s are cool and I'm sure alot better car than my earlier 7.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496502376, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566433, "authorName": "Rich_Truett", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rich_truett/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@JiminRichmond: My 1981 TR8 has an automatic, one of just 13 made that year.\nIf you ever want to part with your automatic coupe. I am interested. It'd be cool to pair thse cars up.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496502794, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566439, "authorName": "terryjm1", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/terryjm1/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "1980 TR7 and TR8 models were much superior to the earlier models. 1981 was a huge improvement. The wedges get a bad wrap due to the poor build quality of early models. I have 3 and really enjoy them.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496502996, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566452, "authorName": "JiminRichmond", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jiminrichmond/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Rich Truett: Cool! I really want to get mine roadworthy and drive it regularly. I think with the automatic and a/c it would be a nice way to cruise to work. I'll keep you in mind if I decide to part with it.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496503525, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566454, "authorName": "boxerboy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/boxerboy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "\"The passenger-side headlight is said to not rise completely on occasion.\" Ah, well, these things can happen as a car gets \"older\"....", "likes": 9, "timestamp": 1496503696, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566459, "authorName": "Rich_Truett", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rich_truett/", "bidAmount": 4444, "content": "$4,444 bid placed by Rich Truett", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496503915, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1566469, "authorName": "randall", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/randall/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "17\" Panasports, 1 1/2\" down and Euro bumpers and these cars look great....mutton to lamb. There was a fellow years ago (they were probably 15\" back then) in the slalom circuit here that had one done like that. Really made you want...especially with that V8 rumble.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496504181, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566473, "authorName": "masernut", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/masernut/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@boxerboy I think they make a pill for that.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496504262, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566467, "authorName": "Fumes", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/fumes/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Seller - Do these seats need new foam? They look kinda flat.\nIs the cloth coming apart from the vinyl on the seat bottoms?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496504383, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566497, "authorName": "Roger_Hull", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/roger_hull/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Love this engine but the body not so much. Putting a 3.5 into one of my Miatas. As far as I can tell they never made Dart heads for this engine Cal55.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496505481, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566507, "authorName": "rcar", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rcar/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "As a kid I thought these were about as cool as a Countach. Too bad they're so rare nowadays. Really glad to see this one in such good shape, and with the plaid interior! Side note: check out \"Detectorists\" on Netflix. Lance drives a yellow TR7.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496505750, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566510, "authorName": "Rich_Truett", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rich_truett/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Two of the TR7s that I converted to TR8 spec used Land Rover 3.9-liter engines, which means you start at 188 horsepower. Both of mine had a mild cam and headers and a few other minor mods to bring horsepower up to 200 for my 1982 Gold car and 250 for my 1981 silver car, which used a hotwire fuel injection system from a 1995 Range Rover. The TR8 chassis is easily capable of handling 250 horsepower. The bigger Rover engines drop right in. \nThink of this car as a blank slate mechanically. Ford rear ends fit underneath easily, which means rear disc brakes, stronger transmissions bolt right up. I remain convinced that you can't build a more capable sports car -- one with a modern-ish interior that was designed for air conditioning -- for less money.\nMy 1981 will also get a 3.9-liter engine and a ZF HP-22 4-speed automatic. I am not messing with the appearance, except for 14-inch Panasports.\n I love it the way it is.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496505844, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566556, "authorName": "911online", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/911online/", "bidAmount": 4850, "content": "$4,850 bid placed by 911online", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496508516, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1566568, "authorName": "951", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/951/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I have had three TR7's , one being this color and interior (persian aqua Iridescent, which i painted myself in my driveway in college, a paint name i can never forget). After i customized the body, the car became Porsche Guards Red (also painted in my driveway). later i started a widebody, and quit that when i could afford a Porsche 944 Turbo instead. The TR7/8 have rear brakes that work for about a year before the cylinder seizes, something I discovered when slamming on the brakes coming off the highway a bit too fast. These things do very well slamming into a deer at 80 MPH (as long as it goes underneath the car), in case you need to know that, i actually drove it a few years after that, minus my custom front spoiler. ... The front suspension design is HORRIBLE, though the aweful brakes can be improved, and swapping out the rear-end for a Ford one helps, i have yet to see a fix for the front suspension. These cars (especially the TR8) are a lot of fun and are comfortable (i am small and loved the seats), but i don't like V8 burble, lvoe 951 turbo scream though. If i hadn't found the 951, i would be bidding on this TR8, lots of great memories in my TR7's, mucho fun for the money and i predict their value will go up (eventually), especally such a nice one like this TR8.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496509482, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566569, "authorName": "Miatadon", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/miatadon/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Rich Truett said, \" The build quality of the TR8 is actually NOT awful.\"\nCall it build quality, or quality of parts, whatever. I spent enough time working on my TR8s to see just how shabby the cars were, especially compared to Japanese cars of the same era. That said, they really do drive nicely. When Road&Track tested the the new TR8, they fell in love with the car because it drove so well, even though parts were failing during the test. That pretty much says it.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496509597, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566575, "authorName": "Rich_Truett", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rich_truett/", "bidAmount": 5328, "content": "$5,328 bid placed by Rich Truett", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496509860, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1566601, "authorName": "rocketmaan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rocketmaan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Back in the day, I had no love for these cars, but with the passage of time, the now rarity of even seeing one on the road, the color and upholstery of this one..... it is so cool. \n\nI like cars like this that are pretty nice cosmetically, need a little fettling to keep me happy in the garage on Saturday mornings and are nice enough to take for a cruise on Sunday afternoons. Greeaat car. No one else will have one of these at Cars and Coffee. I like this! GLWTA", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496511809, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566608, "authorName": "Billy1", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/billy1/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I don't need this car, but I sure want it.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496512548, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566609, "authorName": "tr8", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tr8/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Has the drivers side floor been patched, it looks like smooth sheet underneath without drain hole?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496512623, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566624, "authorName": "meb", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/meb/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I shopped for TR8s when they were new, and owned a Platinum 1980 TR8 from nearly new until about 5 years ago. Loved the car, but I just didn't get enough use out of it because of my obsession with Minis. Every time a nice TR8 comes up for sale I'm reminded that my wife and I took ours on our honeymoon 32 years ago. For that reason I would buy another, but alas she isn't as sentimental about cars as I am.\n\nThis looks like an honest car with the only deviation from stock being the carb. Don't care for the trunkrack, but it was hard for a TR8 or TR7 to avoid that dealer-installed moneymaker.\n\nAlmost since they were new, experts at various automotive publications have been predicting that they would become the next collector cars, and maybe because of this, more TR8s seem to have survived than TR7s.\n\nNice car and the No Reserve auction should be a good indicator of the market value.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496514190, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566676, "authorName": "Chrispc", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/chrispc/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Glad to see the Wedge getting some love on BAT, hasn't always been the case in past listings. I like the color combo. I remember sitting in one in a showroom dreaming as a young teenager. Those seats were corduroy and I imagined would have been very good at gripping in corners. GLWTS.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496516958, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566706, "authorName": "amigaboy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/amigaboy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@masernut - the TR8 v8 is actually an aluminum Buick from the early 60s that GM gave up on because it was too expensive to produce. When JRT was looking for a suitable V8 to put in the TR7, thankfully (or I'd have never bought mine) they ignored the terrible Rover one and licensed/purchased tooling, etc. for the Buick engine from GM. \n\nDespite the low production numbers in the end (about ~2450 were made) - the other massive problems JRT was having at the time ultimately did in the company and car. \n\nI'm glad another poster said something about stainless exhaust - i'll have to look into that in the next few years, even though mine will likely still be spending half its life in storage given rainy Seattle....\n\namigaboy", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496519946, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566737, "authorName": "Peter_Ward", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/peter_ward/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "People might be interested in this page on TR7/8 history: http://www.aronline.co.uk/cars/triumph/tr7-tr8/the-cars-triumph-tr7tr8/.\r\n\r\nAs indicated on that page, sadly the reasoning behind the hardtop TR7 was that impending US safety legislation would kill convertibles.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496522116, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566749, "authorName": "TexasNSX", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/texasnsx/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Tr7 is not a tr8 , wish I had a tr8 back in the 80s instead of my overheated blown head gasket piece of crap tr7. Looked cool but wasn't. tr8 was what they should have made in the first place.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496523291, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566764, "authorName": "Autophile", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/autophile/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "You never forget your first Wedgy... I had a TR7, it never gave me any trouble at all, but would much prefer trying a TR8.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496524212, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566784, "authorName": "oldone2", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/oldone2/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "meb...Your car might have been the 8 I sold earlier this year. It had 59K miles and was very nice. I was the first poster here saying \"buy it\" because they are unappreciated. \n\nNot many are listed and those in good condition sell for peanuts considering that performance equals Sunbeam Tigers...and you know what those cost. Besides the 8 is a \"sportier\" car.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496525470, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566796, "authorName": "meb", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/meb/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@amigaboy You are correct that the engine in the TR8 is the GM 215cu engine which was used in BOP cars of the early 1960s. BMC gained the rights to produce that engine in the 1960s way before JRT existed. The engine was used in the Rover V8s P6 and some Land Rovers in the 1960-70s. When Leyland and BMC merged the Triumph Stag was produced with Leyland's own V8. By the time BL became JRT and the TR8 was being produced the 215 had been under license for at least 15 years.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496526274, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566806, "authorName": "meb", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/meb/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@oldone2 I sold my TR8 to a gentleman in New Jersey. At the time I sold it, it had about 32K miles. It was all stock except for a Crane electronic module and a battery cutoff switch. I had also installed solid butterflies in the carbs, instead of the stock items with the spring-loaded buttons.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496527974, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566819, "authorName": "mgtcracer", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mgtcracer/", "bidAmount": 5555, "content": "$5,555 bid placed by mgtcracer", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496529153, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1566828, "authorName": "Tom_R.", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tom_r.-user/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@meb & @amigaboy - Rover, not BMC, purchased the 215ci BOP V8 from GM, introducing it first in the P5B, and later in the P6B, then the SD1, Range Rover, etc. Rover eventually became part of Leyland Motors, which merged with BMC to form British Leyland. Triumph did not pass on the \"terrible\" Rover engine, they chose the Rover engine over the Triumph V8 that powered the Stag.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496530229, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566859, "authorName": "Rich_Truett", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rich_truett/", "bidAmount": 6001, "content": "$6,001 bid placed by Rich Truett", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496532620, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1566864, "authorName": "Patk12rs (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/patk12rs/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Thank you for all the comments. In regards to the seats, they are a little flat, but not too bad. There is some pulling on the stitching of the bottoms but no separation. The seats are original. Thank you", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1496532789, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566869, "authorName": "rocketmaan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rocketmaan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@chrispc: hmmm those corduroy seats coupled with a pair of corduroy pants, no seat belt and a fast long sweeper = ferrrrrrrrrpppppp . nice car here", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496533185, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566876, "authorName": "Darel", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/darel/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "OHMYGODILOVEPLAID!!!!!", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496533795, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566901, "authorName": "Patk12rs (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/patk12rs/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Just received a few questions about the car.. In regards to fluid leaks, it's really dry underneath. A little oil around the oil pan gasket and by the main seal. I take her out usually every other Sunday morning and there may be 2 or 3 drops on my garage floor. Never needs oil. Rear end is as dry as a bone. The clutch I believe is original but it works and shifts fine. It definitely helps though to match your revs or blip the throttle on downshifting. No synchro problems. The A/C engages but the air is not too cold. It would have to be converted to R134. I never use it for fear that the R12 is the lubrication for the compressor and wouldn't want it to seize if it is low on refrigerant. The gas tank was changed by my neighbor the previous owner. It's a real nice car and puts a smile on my face every time we drive it. Went up to Lime Rock a few weeks ago. Cruises effortlessly at 65.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1496537158, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566922, "authorName": "tr8", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tr8/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Does the drivers floor have a patch underneath? It looks smooth and does not have the factory drain plug like the passenger side.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496539048, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566990, "authorName": "cocomats", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cocomats/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Check out Peter Wards link - BMC gets high marks for the quality of the models who accompany their cars in the ads.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496545651, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1566995, "authorName": "Patk12rs (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/patk12rs/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Hi, I don't think so, but I will check tomorrow. The sound deadening material is covering it. I will look underneath. It is solid when I knock on it. Thank you", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496546014, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1567191, "authorName": "tr8", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tr8/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "In the same photo of the drivers side floor underneath, is there also shown an area of rust on the rocker panel? Could you post a picture of the rust on the rockers that is described in the write up?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496585015, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1567226, "authorName": "oldone2", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/oldone2/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Floor panel rust is a common problem in these and many other similar era CV sports cars. Many are English. This goes undiscovered because the carpet is not easily removed. Look before you sell (or buy).", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496587851, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1567310, "authorName": "amigaboy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/amigaboy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "One other thing - I was reminded of late last night driving mine home from a friends - the dash illumination at night is next to non-existent. Is there any sort of aftermarket LED kit out there? I think I asked The Wedge Shop about this but not sure I ever got an answer. I know for other similar vintage cars those types of kits are becoming easily available - thoughts?\n\namigaboy", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496594323, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1567324, "authorName": "Rich_Truett", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rich_truett/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Amigaboy: No new lights are needed. The dash lights have a green plastic shroud around them. These can be removed easily to brighten the instrument lighting.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496595763, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1567330, "authorName": "Patk12rs (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/patk12rs/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I just posted pictures of the rust spot on the drivers side rocker by the jacking point. I even scraped away some of the undercoating. Sorry to the new owner. Thank you for all the comments.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496596769, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1567363, "authorName": "CruzinMike", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cruzinmike/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Nice wedge!", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496599113, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1567392, "authorName": "Chrispc", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/chrispc/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Rocketmaan: Double the corduroy, FTW! One of us should contact the DOT and the National Safety Counsel, I think we're on to something. Great sound effect BTW.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496602873, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1567434, "authorName": "Craig_Murrin", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/craig_murrin/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The plaid seats remind me of the Bay City Rollers.?", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496607314, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1567440, "authorName": "Patk12rs (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/patk12rs/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I'm not sure why BAT has not updated any of my info I have given them?? Brake pads and shoes are new. New wheel cylinders too. All new bushings underneath also, subframe, rear trailing arms etc. New rear shocks and tires. Thank you for your inquiry", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496608732, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1567480, "authorName": "Ramsey005", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ramsey005/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "My buddy had one years ago and his license plate said \"BEATMY8\"!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496612941, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1567625, "authorName": "24ktairman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/24ktairman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Can't make out the size and Make of those tires? Looks like 185 x 70 - 13 ?? The rims look clean and original, But those tires look like it would be loose in the rear.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496628903, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1567639, "authorName": "bringatrailer", "authorUrl": "", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Photos of the jack points have been added to the gallery", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496629799, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1567641, "authorName": "bringatrailer", "authorUrl": "", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Additionally, the listing has been updated to reflect new rear shocks, wheel cylinders, brake pads, and undercarriage bushings. Thank you for looking!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496630000, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1567780, "authorName": "Fumes", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/fumes/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I have owned Triumphs for 45 years. I currently have three. The deteriorated foams cost about $200. per seat (parts only) In addition, to replace the complete cloth seat covers, the approx cost is $900 (parts only) and you only have a choice of black or tan plaid. (approx. prices are from a place somewhere in the cornbelt). Other choices are available from other places at usually more $. And there are no guarantees that the original seat cloths (37 yrs old) won't tear during or shortly after the replacement process. Too bad my garage is now full. GLWTA.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496665363, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1567872, "authorName": "hawk", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/hawk/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I had a TR7 coupe for a while. When it ran i really liked it. As a daily driver ... not so great. Now that they have reached classic status they would be a fun, underappreciated car.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496670652, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1567962, "authorName": "FTT", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ftt/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "This TR8 appears to have the same same exhaust as mine, but with cast iron manifolds instead of headers. The seller might consider driving video. That sound makes me smile every time I drive it. GLWTS.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496675815, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1568073, "authorName": "TechnoHippie", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/technohippie/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I had something like this - started life as a TR7, but had the TR8 215 v8 motor in it - with a HUGE turbo charger on it off a tractor and a Muncie 4spd M22 transmission hehe. Tons of suspension work on it and big huge fender-flares and big fat tires. Thing was a BEAST and geeze was it loud! I knew a guy that had a stock TR8 (other than he had removed the Zenith-Strombergs like this one - which is great idea) - and of course I was faster than him, but not by as much as you'd think - the 5spd helped him quite a bit I think. Anyway I found that for the most part, getting Triumph parts for it was actually pretty easy. I've always thought that these TR8's were undervalued cars. Plus it's not too hard to get 300hp out of that motor with a little work and few internals. I was able to get 550hp out of mine with the turbo boost turned up on it - lol lol. Like I said it was a beast.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496681365, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1568104, "authorName": "smamols", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/smamols/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I had an '80 convertible in tan with tan interior, very similar to this car except it was a CA car, so it had Bosch fuel injection instead of the carburetors...made for a bit more power. Bought it in '84 and kept it for about 10 years. Car was blast, drove like a go cart, and other than a transmission failure early on, it was surprisingly trouble free, even the electronics. GLWTS", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1496682938, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1568357, "authorName": "bimmergas", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bimmergas/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "This is the engine that should have gone into the TR6 or the Stag. Would have been a great fit for either one. Unfortunately, British Leland quality is what killed an otherwise great company prior to the TR7 era.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496690941, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1568701, "authorName": "Vance", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/vance/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Always liked these. A couple turned up recently on CL here in SoCal but both were 49-state cars with the Offenhauser intake/Holley 4-barrel conversion so weren't smog legal in California. Would be great to find a CA-legal fuel-injected one but they seem quite rare.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496694791, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1568845, "authorName": "oldone2", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/oldone2/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I thought I made an opening statement on this one, but can't find it. I said to buy the car. I had a good one. Changed my mind because this one needs work.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496701173, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1569673, "authorName": "Rich_Truett", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rich_truett/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Replacement sills are fifty bucks each.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496762865, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1571279, "authorName": "ahudson777", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ahudson777/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Had a green with tan tartan '80 model for 2 years in late college, 1983-84. They'd gone through a briefly collectible spike while we mourned Triumph's demise, and I jumped on board. \n\nI promptly gutted the cats and basked in teen-fueled insensitivity. Drove that thing everywhere, about 22k miles worth, had exactly one problem: Oil pressure switch went out, about $20 as I recall. \n\nThe 5 speed was a jewel. Car felt and sounded faster than it was. Crude live rear and imitation brakes were surprisingly effective, but after 30 years of upgrades in each, likely not impressive today. I just pretended I was in a 'modern' Tiger, yet without constantly overheating or needing 4 people to steer it.\n\nHated the acres of plastic on the dash top, and not the 'good' plastic either, (sort of like saying, 'good LIte beer', but you know what I mean.') Tires woefully undersized, but you can go to 15's as I recall, and fill in anemic wheel well gap. The seller has wisely addressed the carburetion and exhaust upgrade. These are fun cars to mod. \n\nEven today, I fondly recall that car. So does a friend who retells of a Sunday drive that was abruptly halted with the only \"Over 100mph\" ticket he'd ever be a party to. (Seriously, that's how Mr. Kind Officer Person wrote it up.) \n\nThese cars were a little late to the English tea party of redemption however. Years of antiquated engineering, labor unrest and flickering lights caught up with them. For a brief period though, the hopeful thought the TR8 had a chance. 'Twas not to be, but this car is not the reason. A late, but bright light. Best wishes to buyer and seller.", "likes": 12, "timestamp": 1496804947, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1571409, "authorName": "CactusVince", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cactusvince/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@ahudson777 reminded me of that \"acres of plastic\" dash treatment. Hard to keep it squeak and rattle free. But then, I did recall that exhaust burble below. The go pedal would make you forget the squeaks!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1496813462, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1571558, "authorName": "acn1275", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/acn1275/", "bidAmount": 6500, "content": "$6,500 bid placed by acn1275", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496838352, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1571775, "authorName": "amigaboy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/amigaboy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Vance - why would the 49-state carb vs. fuel-injected version of the car matter at this late date - it's 37 years old? Yes, even though CARB was around in the 80s (created in 1967, actually) doesn't the 25 year rule apply on these even in CA?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496846318, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1571973, "authorName": "JPSO86", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jpso86/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@amigaboy -\nIn the Great State of California your car must be a 1975 or older model to avoid the dreaded smog check.\nIn defense of that rule, I moved to Los Angeles in 1984 and the air has gotten cleaner every year I've lived here.\nI lived in the Valley when I first got here and at times the smog was so bad it felt like someone was standing on my chest when I breathed. Not any more.", "likes": 7, "timestamp": 1496851618, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1572744, "authorName": "Rich_Truett", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rich_truett/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Good luck, guys, I'm out.\nI have my hands full restoring my 1981 TR8.\nThese are super fun cars, and this one just needs a little here and there to be great.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496865623, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1572783, "authorName": "Vance", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/vance/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@amigaboy: JPSO86 is correct. There is no 25-year rule in CA, so 1980 TR8s are still subject to a smog check every other year in order to be registered. The problem with these Offy/Holley conversions is that they are not CARB approved. The CA smog check involves a visual inspection before the tailpipe test is done. If a car has been modified with non-CARB-approved parts, it's an instant fail, even if it would pass the tailpipe test. \r\n\r\nSo a carbed TR8 without the original Zenith-Strombergs is basically a no-go in terms of registering it in CA.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1496866507, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1573502, "authorName": "Indigotr8", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/indigotr8/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I've got to question the 58,000 miles on this one. Every TR8 I've owned or parted has an 85 mph speedometer (reads 80 as the highest digit) as a US spec requirement for 1980. It was real common to swap a TR7 130 or 140 mph speedo because the original 85 mph unit was a joke in these cars. \r\nI still love the period plaid interiors that most of these had. I've owned my current TR8 for about 25 years, and it has been the most dependable British sports car I've ever owned, plus it will run 80 mph for hours on end in reletive comfort and with no fuss. These are one of the most un-appreciated cars out there!", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1496875126, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1573933, "authorName": "Miatadon", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/miatadon/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I imported into California a dual carb 49-state TR8 from Pennsylvania years ago, and got it registered. I had to reinstall the cats, and have the car inspected by DMV. I can't imagine the rules are tighter now.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496893657, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1573948, "authorName": "Vance", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/vance/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Miatadon: You can register a stock 49-state dual-carbed TR8 in CA. What you can't register is one that's been modified with the Offy manifold and Holley 4-barrel because that setup isn't recognized by the state as smog legal and won't pass a smog inspection.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496895175, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1574391, "authorName": "amigaboy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/amigaboy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Vance - thanks! @JPSO86 - no argument on smog controls, while they can be a bear when dealing with older cars, it was the older cars creating much of the problem in the first place, after all.... And as to smog generally, I lived in Salt Lake for several years in the early 90s and the smog inversion there in winter is VERY bad, sometimes you literally couldn't see downtown from the Univ. of Utah area due to the disgusting 'green blanket' over the city...", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496931846, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1575922, "authorName": "Torpdrums", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/torpdrums/", "bidAmount": 7500, "content": "$7,500 bid placed by Torpdrums", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1496967574, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1576670, "authorName": "acn1275", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/acn1275/", "bidAmount": 7750, "content": "$7,750 bid placed by acn1275", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1497022455, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1576715, "authorName": "Rich_Truett", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rich_truett/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Someone on eBay has the factory carb setup for sale, so, now it just became easier to bring the car to California.\nTriumph TR8 Factory Intake Manifold with Zenith Stromberg Carburetors,and more.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1497023892, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1576720, "authorName": "JPSO86", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jpso86/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@ Rich Truett -\nNice find!", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1497023964, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1577842, "authorName": "darthmustang", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/darthmustang/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I think the plaid is starting to grow on me...", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1497043327, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1577913, "authorName": "whatsinaname", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/whatsinaname/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "There's a prescription cream for that @darthmustang.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1497044432, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1577937, "authorName": "TheBigFish", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/thebigfish/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "My first sports car was a poop brown TR7 Coupe. It was the greatest car I have ever or will ever own. My automotive Red Ryder Range Model Air Rifle w/Compass in the Stock.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1497044817, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1577972, "authorName": "Torpdrums", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/torpdrums/", "bidAmount": 7850, "content": "$7,850 bid placed by Torpdrums", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1497045207, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1577999, "authorName": "shebob008", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/shebob008/", "bidAmount": 7999, "content": "$7,999 bid placed by shebob008", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1497046161, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1578004, "authorName": "shebob008", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/shebob008/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Sold on 6/9/17 for $7,999 to shebob008", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1497046283, "type": "bat-bid-reserve"}, {"id": 1578008, "authorName": "Rich_Truett", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rich_truett/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Right on the money!\n\nSay hello to a good buy!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1497046335, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1578007, "authorName": "ClintonF", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/clintonf/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@JPSO86; As much as I dislike the CA smog rules, it's worked well over the decades. How many times have you been in traffic, smelled the unburned hydrocarbons, and immediately looked for the vintage car? They all used to burn like that.\n\nCongrats to @shebob008. Well bought, I believe.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1497046461, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1578018, "authorName": "shebob008", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/shebob008/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Very pleased with the outcome. Having had a TR2, TR3A, TR4a and two TR6`s, this completes the chain for me!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1497047009, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1578113, "authorName": "Rich_Truett", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rich_truett/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Shebob008. You will be amazed at how roomy