Sports Car Swan Song: 1980 Triumph TR8 – SOLD!

March 26, 2021 Update – we confirmed the seller of this rare TR8 “Classifind” deleted their listing, so we’re now able to call this one “SOLD!” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call Rudy directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

Pity the Triumph TR7 and TR8 produced by mismanaged British Leyland from 1975 through 1980.  Triumph introduced its radical wedge-shaped TR7 in 1975 in coupe form only under the misguided notion the U.S. market would soon outlaw convertibles. When that didn’t happen, Triumph launch a more traditional roadster version.  Enthusiasts criticized the TR7 for being underpowered so to address it, Triumph introduced the TR8 in 1980, which was a TR7 powered by the aluminum Buick 215 cubic inch aluminum V-8. Unfortunately, Triumph was out of business by 1981 with only 2,700 TR8s built, one of which is originally listed in March 2021 on Craigslist in Silver Spring, Maryland with an asking price of $8,000 currently. Comparing that price against the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool confirms the private seller has their TR8 priced between this guide’s #4 “Fair” (Daily Driver) estimate of $4,700 and its #3 “Good” appraisal of $9,800. The  Collector Car Market Review Online Tool provides a bit more generous assessment as in this case the asking price falls between this guide’s #4 “Fair” estimate of $6,100 and its #3 “Good” appraisal of $10,150.  The seller indicates they are open to reasonable offers.

Hagerty Insurance offers this TR8 Buyer’s Guide on their YouTube Channel on what to look for when buying an example such as the one featured here:

While the lone interior picture confirms the seller’s description that part of the car has been completely redone, the exterior paint indicates this is a driver-quality car that will need a respray to improve the car’s overall condition. While the aftermarket Lucas driving lights might detract some, the Rad Era crowd will love you for keeping this period-correct accessory in place. We say enjoy this TR8 now through the fall while you plan to have it painted over next winter.

Here’s the seller’s description:

“1980 Triumph TR8 for sale. Asking $8000 obo. Motivated seller and all reasonable offers will be considered.

Factory 3.5 l Rover V8 and LT77 5 speed manual transmission.

One of about 2700 made and just a few hundred are left running.

Great mechanical condition. Garage kept. About 92,000 original miles. Everything works and works like it should. This thing rips. It’s been my nice weather daily since 2015.

The Poseidon green metallic paint is nice for being original. There’s some oxidation here and there but it shines up well. The front left and right rear fenders had some bodywork done before my ownership and could be revisited. The Interior has been completely redone. No rust.

Located in Silver Spring, MD.

Serious inquiries only.”

Restore or drive as-is: what would you do with this TR8?  Comment below and let us know!