Highlights
- Complete gearbox rebuild with lifetime warranty on workmanship
- Hand-made aluminium body with bespoke rear end and bonnet
- Engine rebuilt and bored out, producing 120bhp
- CV joint rear suspension conversion for improved road holding
- Numerous handmade custom parts throughout
The Appeal
The Triumph GT6 is renowned among enthusiasts for its compact dimensions, potent six-cylinder engine, and distinctive fastback styling that earned it the nickname "the poor man's E-Type." This particular example represents something rather special - a comprehensive reimagining of the GT6 formula with a lightweight 4-cylinder special configuration. This ground-up rebuild has been executed with great attention to detail, resulting in a unique vehicle with significantly enhanced performance and handling characteristics.
This 1973 GT6 special has been transformed through meticulous craftsmanship, featuring a hand-formed aluminium body, comprehensively rebuilt mechanicals, and numerous bespoke touches. The combination of increased power and substantially reduced weight promises a driving experience that, the vendor states, "handles and rides unlike any other GT6." For the enthusiast seeking something genuinely unique with the reliability benefits of professional rebuilding work, this special demands serious consideration.
History and Paperwork
- 1973 model year UK home market RHD car
- Complete gearbox rebuild performed
- Mike Papworth offers a lifetime warranty on his workmanship
- 5,192 miles indicated
- MOT until 13th May 2026
- Historic vehicle, exempt from road tax and MOT
- Correctly registered with the DVLA following engine swap
The Condition
- Fully rebuilt body tub using new heritage inner body panels
- Two months spent on the body tub rebuilding process alone
- Hand-made aluminium body formed with bespoke rear end and bonnet
- Finished with French Blue paint to protect aluminium panels
- Re-trimmed seats and interior
- New carpets installed
- Newly laminated walnut dash fascia
- Numerous handmade parts, including front wheel arch covers, custom air intake, and electric fan with manual override
The Mechanics
- 1,561cc four-cylinder Triumph Spitfire Engine, rebuilt and bored out by renowned engine builder
- 120bhp output
- Four-speed manual transmission with overdrive in 3rd and 4th
- Engine features high-lift cam, big valve head, and specially made pistons by JE
- Gearbox rebuilt by Triumph specialist Mike Papworth
- Fully refinished chassis, brakes, suspension, and running gear
- CV joint rear suspension conversion for improved road holding
- Eliminates infamous Triumph toe-in issues
- Can cruise comfortably on B roads or accelerate when opportunity arises, the vendor tells us
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