Triumph Stag

The birth of the Triumph Stag came almost by chance after stylist Giovanni Michelotti, already responsible for the Triumph Herald, 200 saloon and TR4 models, borrowed a tired 2000 for the basis of a new show car in 1965; the only proviso was that Triumph would have the first option on the design if it approved. When the company saw the result, a striking two door, four seat convertible, it snapped it up before it went public.

The previous year Triumph had evolved a new engine range comprising two related units: a slant four cylinder in capacities from 1.5 to 2.0 liters and a 2.5-liter V8, the former subsequently used in the Dolomite, TR7 and Saab 99. The V8, however, then in fuel injected form, could not be fully developed in time for the Stag’s proposed 1968 launch, while new US emission regulations and tooling problems caused further delays.

By the time the Stag was launched in June 1970 the wheelbase had been shortened for a more sporting...