1981 Triumph TR7 DHC review from UK and Ireland

Gearbox failed at 105k miles, which was disturbing, but a recon unit was easy to source and reasonably cheap. No problems with that so far.

Radiator was replaced at the same time, as it was weeping a little too much for my liking.

Windscreen wiper intermittent wipe is dodgy - the wipers don't travel far enough on the intermittent pulse. Just needs the electrics looking at.

Engine was a bit baggy when I bought it, but that was sorted out with the unleaded conversion.

The driver's seat has been replaced, and the foam is collapsing at the bottom of the backrest again.

Rust is a perennial problem on these cars, but mine hasn't suffered too badly. It's waxoyl'd for the winter which helps.

The feed for the starter motor relay perished, (it's right next to the exhaust manifold) but that's an easy fix with a soldering iron.

I'm biased - I love TR7's. I can forgive just about anything because of this. It's fun, different, and makes me smile. It stands out in the car park, and all my mates think it's cool.

It's not quick by modern standards, although I've had the ton out of it (uphill, with a good run up!) and it wasn't topping out or complaining.

It's also extremely comfortable, despite it's age, and has a lovely driving position - you're stretched out reclining, and the main controls are in just the right place.

The gearbox is great - other than the failure - and works like a rifle bolt. The throw is a bit long compared to modern cars perhaps.

Servicing is dead easy, all the bits are common parts (especially if you get the spin-on oil filter kit, which takes Ford Escort filters), but it likes frequent (4000 mile) plug and oil changes.

My only gripe is that the wheelbase is too short, which makes handling 'interesting' in the wet, but then it's easy to get the back end out, which is fun in the dry, especially as the steering gives you lots of feedback.