Based on the platform of the Triumph 2000 and sharing its front panels, the Stag made its debut in 1970, six years after Michelotti first imagined it as concept car at the 1964 Turin Motor Show.
Although it was neither quick nor especially agile, it was well-received, for here was a car that was somewhere between sports car and GT, with immense character and masses of boulevard cruiser appeal. It was one of the best-looking cars in the world back in 1970, and in it still is today.
This one is from the final year of production – 1978 – and is as refined and developed as the Stag got. It’s an older restoration with its original Triumph V8 under the bonnet and is presented in smart, usable condition.ZP9UYnwGKflkM6M0Ocn6CfrlvZIwJ3fpYwT1XLhm.jpeg1.54 MB
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
Older restoration
UK V5C
Tax and MOT exempt
Some old MOTs
The Stag has a full UK V5C and a few old MOT certificates, but other than that it doesn’t have a huge stack of history. It has had seven previous owners, the most recent since 2012.
The tan Ambla (essentially imitation leather) interior is set off nicely against the metallic dark blue coachwork, and gives the Stag a smart and distinctive appearance.
The seats are in generally good order as are the carpets, though there are a couple of small nicks in the driver’s seat. The wooden six-dial dash is in good order, the electric windows work and there’s a groovy period radio-cassette player, though this is missing the cover from one of its knobs. It does appear to work, though.auUoAAuhLptO6eNPwBYdEs7FEIXiLn5N0mlyKClr.jpeg1.22 MB
THE EXTERIOR
Restored several years ago
Non-original colour
Beige mohair hood
Refurbished alloys
Finished in a non-standard dark metallic blue with a tan mohair hood, the Stag is a smart and well-presented car with excellent chrome and trim and recently refurbished alloys with good tyres.
It’s an older restoration and it isn’t perfect, but it still looks fabulous. Get up close and you’ll notice a few marks, some rust bubbles on the nearside lower body and door bottom, on the boot lid and around one back light, though none of these are alarming.
There’s also a small dent beneath the mirror on the driver’s door and a couple of smaller marks on the same side.
Unlike many Stags, which were given Ford V6 or Rover V8 engine conversions, this one retains its original Triumph V8. The 3.0-litre unit had a poor reputation when new for overheating problems, but to have lasted almost 50 years this example clearly isn’t a dud.
It also has an aftermarket Kenlowe fan and it holds a steady temperature at idle and on the move. It has been well-maintained and is described by the owner as being in good working order with no known faults. 6dIihYSVMzBkyGJLgpdB145Sn3h9Wlodk4dAO0Xv.jpeg1.28 MB
SUMMARY
There’s always been a strong following for Triumph Stags but just lately they’ve been really shooting up in value, especially for original examples with the correct Triumph V8.
This is a good example of a Stag you can use and enjoy with impunity – a smart and good-looking car that isn’t perfect but presents well and can be used without any concerns about concours paintwork getting marked. Or, it would also make a great basis for a new owner to take it up a level.
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