Triumph TR8
The 'English Corvette' that finally gave the wedge the power it deserved.
- Power
- 133 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8.1 s
- Top speed
- 120 mph
- Est. value
- $11k–$35k
About the Triumph TR8
The Triumph TR8 was the long-awaited V8 evolution of the TR7, designed to rectify the performance deficit of its four-cylinder sibling. Powered by the all-alloy Rover V8—originally a Buick design—it transformed the polarizing 'wedge' into a genuine performance contender, though its launch was severely hampered by British Leyland's industrial strife. Most examples were exported to North America, where it earned a reputation as a comfortable, torque-rich grand tourer with surprisingly modern handling for its era. Today, it is prized by collectors as the final chapter of the Triumph TR lineage and a rare example of British engineering meeting American-style muscle.
Triumph TR8 specs
The Triumph TR8 produces 133 bhp (99 kW) and 228 Nm (168 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 8.1 seconds and has a top speed of 120 mph (193 km/h).
| Make | Triumph |
|---|---|
| Model | TR8 |
| Trim | 3.5 V8 |
| Years | 1978–1981 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 2,746 built |
| Original price | About $11,000 when new |
| Engine | 3.5-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,528 cc (3.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 133 bhp (99 kW) at 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 228 Nm (168 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 8.1 s |
| Top speed | 120 mph (193 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,214 kg (2,676 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 110 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Triumph TR8 worth?
A typical Triumph TR8 is estimated to be worth $11,000 – $35,000 (about £8,400 – £26,000).
Its original price when new was about $11,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Triumph TR8 rarity in CarSpot
The Triumph TR8 is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 54 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Triumph TR8 fun facts
- The TR8's 3.5-litre engine was so light that the car weighed only about 40kg more than the four-cylinder TR7, maintaining excellent balance.
- Due to strict emissions laws, California-market TR8s were the first to receive Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection, while other states used twin Zenith-Stromberg carburettors.
- Triumph originally planned to call it the 'TR7 V8', and early pre-production prototypes were badged as such before the TR8 name was finalized for the 1980 US launch.
