The loss of the Healey 3000 Mk III at the end of 1967 left a void in the six-cylinder sports car line-up. Sure, there was the Jaguar Series II XKE ($5,500 in 1969) and soon a new upstart from Japan, the Datsun 240Z, would show the world how much GT car $3,500 would buy. Still, a torquey, easy-to-repair pushrod six like the Healey was needed to fill the gap between cars below 2 liters (such as the MGB) and the 4.2-liter E Type.
Though not as curvaceous as a Big Healey, the Triumph's lines were modern, handsome and at the same time traditionally British with its wooden dashboard fascia. The solid underpinnings, with front disc brakes and independent suspension front and rear, make the TR-6 a predictable, user-friendly performer with mild understeer and good (but fairly high effort) brakes.
Mechanically, the car changed very little during its production run, aside from more stringent emissions controls with each successive year. Overdrive was available beginning in 1972. A small spoiler appeared under the front valance in 1973. Large, ugly black bumper guards were added front and rear in 1974. Air conditioning could be ordered by 1973.
In theory, an earlier, pre-1971 car would be preferred by collectors because fewer smog devices means more horsepower. However, a '72 or later TR-6 with overdrive would have more potential for cruising speed. Be aware that some cars may have been de-smogged or updated with a combination of parts that were not available in that model year. Such a modified car is not necessarily to be avoided, but should be priced 10-15% less than a completely stock example in comparable condition.
The TR6 was built largely for export and the U.S. received the bulk of the production. TR-6s for the American market were fitted with dual Stromberg carburetors, while European cars used Lucas fuel injection. A large number of cars have survived and are supported by a good supply of reasonably priced spare parts. This doesn't mean that it's wise to pay $2,000 for a project car. Even reasonably priced parts can gobble up $5,000 in short order.
Quality control on most early '70s British cars was weak. Consequently, regular maintenance will include sorting out and adjusting a few things that the factory missed. It is to be hoped that past owners will have attended to such problems and aside from an appetite for steering rack mount bushings, your TR-6 will be an enjoyable and easy-to-own classic.