Golden Goose: 1980 Triumph TR8 Project – Sold?

December 10, 2021 Update – We just confirmed the listing for this “Classifind” expired, so with no replacement found we’re assuming this ride “Sold?” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us 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 purchased by Rover years earlier.

Unfortunately, Triumph was out of business by 1981 with only 2,700 TR8s built, one of which is currently originally listed in November 2021 on Craigslist in Farragut, Tennesee (Knoxville) with an asking price of $9,500 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 $4,800 and its #3 “Good” appraisal of $11,300. 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 $7,000 and its #3 “Good” appraisal of $11,150.

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:

The conversion of the Buick/Rover aluminum V8 to a much more reliable Eldebrock intake manifold topped with a Holley carburetor will go a long way towards improving the driveability of this TR8. As long as the seller has all of the parts already needed to finish the project, there’s a high probability you could trailer this TR8 home now and have it ready by next spring to get it back on the road.

Here’s the seller’s description:

“1980 Triumph TR8 Roadster in excellent condition. V8 3.4L 5spd. No rust or body damage. Stored dry for years. I have rebuilt suspension, brakes, new fuel tank, and pump and installed Edelbrock intake and Holley 600 carburetor. Ready to finish. No low ballers! I don’t need help selling!”

Show or go: what would you do with this rare 1980 Triumph TR8?  Comment below and let us know!