Used 1979 Triumph TR7

1979 Triumph TR7: The Wedge That Roared (and Sometimes Coughed)

The 1979 Triumph TR7 represents a pivotal, albeit controversial, chapter in the storied history of British sports cars. Emerging from the ashes of the Dolomite Sprint and intended to be the successor to the beloved TR6, the TR7 was a radical departure in both design and engineering. For 1979, it continued to refine the formula laid out in its initial years, offering a distinctive look and a driving experience that divided opinion as sharply as its angular bodywork.

Design and Styling:

The most striking aspect of the 1979 TR7 is undoubtedly its "Dolop wedge" styling, a design language heavily influenced by the era's fascination with aerodynamic, angular shapes. Penned by Harris Mann, the TR7 eschewed the classic lines of its predecessors for a bold, futuristic (for the time) silhouette.

• Low-Slung Profile: The car featured a very low roofline and a prominent, wedge-shaped profile that gave it a dramatic road presence.
• Pop-Up Headlights: A defining characteristic of the TR7, the pop-up headlights contributed to the car's aerodynamic efficiency and gave it a "hidden" face when retracted, adding to its sporty appeal.
• Integrated Bumpers: Unlike the often aftermarket-looking bumpers of previous TR models, the 1979 TR7 featured flush-fitting, body-colored bumpers that were integrated into the overall design.
• Targa Top Configuration: While primarily offered as a coupe, convertible variants were also available, allowing for open-air motoring. The coupe's fixed-head design offered improved structural rigidity.
• Interior: The interior was a departure from the utilitarian cabins of earlier Triumphs, featuring more modern instrumentation, comfortable seating for two, and a generally more refined ambiance. However, some critics pointed to the use of plastics and a lack of the tactile feel found in older British sports cars.

Engine and Performance:

Underneath its distinctive exterior, the 1979 TR7 was powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four engine, a significant shift from the straight-sixes that had powered its predecessors.

• Engine Type: 2.0-liter (1998cc) overhead-valve (OHV) inline-four.
• Power Output: For 1979, the engine typically produced around 105 bhp (brake horsepower). This was a respectable figure for the time, but it lacked the raw power and torque that many enthusiasts associated with the TR badge.
• Drivetrain: The TR7 was exclusively rear-wheel drive, a hallmark of its sporting heritage. It was available with either a four-speed manual gearbox or a three-speed automatic transmission.
• Performance: While the TR7 could reach highway speeds comfortably, its acceleration was often described as leisurely compared to its V6 or inline-six predecessors. The emphasis was more on nimble handling and cruising rather than outright speed.
• Handling: The TR7's handling was a mixed bag. The independent front suspension and live rear axle provided a decent ride and reasonable grip, especially on the road. The car was praised for its stability and predictability in corners. However, some found the steering to be a little numb, and the rear axle could become unsettled on rough surfaces, particularly when pushed hard.

Key Features and Innovations (for 1979):

The 1979 model year saw continued refinements to the TR7, building upon the initial introduction.

• Improved Build Quality: Efforts were made to address early criticisms regarding build quality and reliability.
• Disc Brakes: Disc brakes were fitted to the front wheels, providing effective stopping power. Rear drum brakes were standard.
• Safety Features: As a modern car of its era, the TR7 incorporated safety features like crumple zones and a robust chassis.

Market Position and Legacy:

The Triumph TR7 occupied an interesting, and ultimately challenging, position in the automotive market.

• Target Audience: It was aimed at buyers seeking a stylish, affordable, and relatively modern British sports car.
• Competition: It competed with a range of vehicles, including the MGB, Alfa Romeo Spider, and Datsun Z cars.
• Controversy and Criticism: The TR7 faced significant criticism for its perceived lack of character compared to its V6-powered predecessors, particularly the TR6. Concerns were also raised about build quality and the perceived "Americanization" of its design and engineering, as it was primarily developed for the US market.
• Revival with the TR7 V8: While the standard TR7 struggled to capture the hearts of traditionalists, the later introduction of the TR8 with its V8 engine significantly altered perceptions and demonstrated the chassis's true potential.
• Enduring Appeal: Despite its mixed reception during its production run, the 1979 Triumph TR7 has cultivated a loyal following. Its distinctive styling continues to turn heads, and for those who appreciate its unique character and relative affordability, it remains an appealing classic sports car. It represents a bold, if not entirely successful, attempt by British Leyland to reinvent the classic British sports car for a new era.