HIGHLIGHTS
- Restored Pimento Red paintwork
- Good shut lines
- Solid chassis
- Highly original interior
- Mechanically sound
THE APPEAL
Built between 1966-1973, Triumph’s stylish and sporty fastback version of the Spitfire has a lot going for it. Despite being dubbed “the poor man’s E-type”, it has enjoyed numerous race track successes over the years and is a firm contender to the MGB - the obvious competition.
The entire body shell of the MKIII was revised to match the most recent changes to the Spitfire MK IV and featured a cut-off rear end, smoother front end, recessed door handles, upgraded
instrumentation and fabric upholstery.
The later MK III GT6 is also the most technically advanced with ‘swing-spring’ rear suspension and power brakes and naturally offers a great sound track with the silky-smooth 2-litre straight-six engine.
Some 40,926 GT6’s were produced over 7 years with the the last being built in November 1973.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
- Recent low mileage
- No known MOT issues
- V5 present
This last of the line GT6 was first registered on the 24th October 1973 and was purchased locally by the current owner in December 2021. Having checked it over and attended to any servicing requirements, he describes it as “ready to enjoy” by the new custodian.
The history is unknown at the moment. Just the V5 is present along with a Triumph Sports Six Club/Bell stainless steel exhaust guarantee from 1997.
This GT6 has travelled very few miles in recent years, and looking online, the MOT history tells us that the recorded mileage was 88,901 in July 2009 and the last (exempt) ‘Pass’ MOT was carried out in August 2017 at 93,320 miles. So just 2,250 miles ago. Happily there are no recorded advisories or issues with chassis corrosion. The exempt tax has been renewed and runs until the 1st January 2023.
THE INTERIOR
- Sporty low-down driving position
- Original late GT6 specification
- Good overall condition
Opening the doors reveals an original specification interior in really nice condition. It has clearly been well cared for, and sure, there are one or two scuffs, but these ‘fit’ naturally with the age of the car.
The original 3-spoke steering wheel, wood dash, trim and switches are presentable and the Smiths instruments are all said to operate as they should.
Some electrical tape is wrapped round the gear knob and there is some staining and a couple of small rips to the headlining by the rear hatch. The carpeting is excellent though, and the fabric covered seats (featuring the later head restraints) look spot on and undamaged.
At the rear, the hatch opens easily and stays up unaided. It features a rear heated window and access to a very tidy carpeted luggage space. Under the wooden panels resides a recently installed stainless steel fuel tank, the spare wheel and tools. We did notice some corrosion at floor level (see photo).
THE EXTERIOR
- Fantastic fastback styling
- Recent external restoration
- Great chrome work
The flowing aerodynamic lines of the GT6 coupe (especially from the side) give it a real performance car appearance. The bonnet bulge hints at that 2-litre power plant too, in what is a relatively light car.
Looking resplendent in glossy Pimento Red, the external paintwork is very good. We understand it was repainted a few years ago, but we don’t have any details. The shut lines are amazingly good and the doors (and bonnet) open and close with ease.
The door bottoms and structural sills look fine along with excellent wheel arches (see photos).
The front valance is not so shiny, and aside from some minor pitting, the chrome trim (especially the bumpers), windows and trim are excellent.
We didn’t detect any obvious historical accident damage to the front chassis legs, and from what we can see underneath, the chassis looks solid and well undersealed. As you would expect, there is some surface rust here and there but the owner is keen to point out that this lovely GT6 has never failed an MOT on rust issues.
Standard pressed steel wheels appear fine and would benefit from a repaint if you wish. Michelin Classic 155/80 R13 tyres sit on each corner and have a good level of tread remaining.
THE MECHANICS
- Gorgeous sounding engine
- Unmodified specification
- Ready to drive away
Lifting the bonnet and locking off the catch is easy enough and exposes the “oh-so-easy” to work on engine department. The underside of the bonnet and bulkhead areas are less pristine than the outside of the car, but could easily be improved if you wish.
The reliable 1,998cc OHV straight-six (borrowed from the Vitesse and 2000) produces around 98bhp and will potential reach 112mph. Original specification twin Stromberg carburettors fuel up this silky-smooth six-cylinder and as far as we know the cylinder head and electrical system, etc. are unmodified. Renowned for leaking a little oil, we didn’t notice any significant leaks from this engine or transmission.
A standard four-speed gearbox with working factory-fitted overdrive on 3rd and 4th should aid relaxed driving and the owner has recently installed a new brake servo, braided rear brake pipes, and, as mentioned, a stainless steel fuel tank.
Having had a general service and check over, the owner informs us that it starts well with no untoward rattles or noises from the engine, gearbox or differential and is “impressive” on the road.
SUMMARY
This MK III Triumph GT6 looks fantastic and purposeful from every angle. The glossy Pimento Red colour really suits this sports coupe and the interior is a pleasant place to be.
Easy and affordable to maintain, the six-cylinder engine and late MK III improvements make this GT6 a very desirable proposition and fun classic to own.
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