Triumph GT6 Mark 3 (1970-73)
The Triumph GT6 had a few common issues:
1. Oil Leaks: The straight-six engine was known for oil leaks, but these can be addressed without significant difficulty or expense.
2. Rattles at Start-Up: Some engines exhibited rattles during start-up, which can also be mitigated.
3. Final Drive Weakness: The GT6’s final drive, including universal joints and the differential, could struggle with the 2.0-litre engine’s torque. Regular maintenance is essential to prevent issues.
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Generations
The Triumph GT6 had three different models during its production:
1. GT6 Mk I (1967-1968): The purest of the breed, with 15,818 units built.
2. GT6+ (1968-1970): Featured a revised rear suspension, with 12,066 units produced.
3. GT6 Mk III: The final iteration of this classic sports coupé.
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Body Style
The GT6 retained its two seater coupe shape throughout its production
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Trim Levels
**1. Mk1 (1966-1968):** These early GT6s are the rarest birds in the GT6 aviary. While nearly 16,000 were produced, finding an original, unmodified Mk1 today is like spotting a unicorn at a classic car show. They're out there, but they've often been upgraded or tweaked over the years. Original spares? Well, let's just say they're as elusive as a sunny day in England.
**2. Mk2 (1968-1970):** The Mk2 GT6 strikes a sweet balance. It's like the Goldilocks of the lineup—just right. Triumph introduced the Rotoflex suspension system, which smoothed out the handling kinks that plagued the early models. Styling-wise, it retained that classic GT6 look. So, if you want a blend of vintage charm and improved dynamics, the Mk2 might be your cup of Earl Grey.
**3. Mk3 (1970-1973):** The final act—the GT6 Mark 3. Picture this: Michelotti (the design wizard behind the Spitfire) took his scissors to the rear end, resulting in a chopped-off look shared with the Spitfire. Recessed door handles, flared arches, and slotted steel wheels completed the makeover. It's like the GT6 got a fresh haircut and a new outfit. Oh, and there's an overdrive switch on the gearknob—because why not?
Now, performance-wise, the GT6 Mark 3 packed a 2.0-litre inline-six engine, churning out a respectable 98 bhp. Top speed? A zippy 112 mph. Not quite warp speed, but hey, it's enough to make your tweed cap fly off. And fuel consumption? Well, let's just say it's not sipping tea; it's more like sipping petrol at 20.2 mpg. But who's counting when you're cruising with the wind in your hair?
Remember, my friend, these classics have character—oil leaks, rattles, and all. But that's part of their charm. If you find one with its factory trim intact, you've struck gold. Original patina tells the story of a car's past, like the faded pages of a beloved novel.
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Engines
Triumph GT6 Mark 3—the engine that sings a tune of six cylinders and British motoring nostalgia! Let's pop the bonnet (or hood, if you prefer) and take a peek at what powered this delightful little coupe.
The GT6 Mark 3, produced from 1970 to 1973, strutted its stuff with a 2.0-litre inline-six engine. Here are the specs for your automotive pleasure:
- **Engine Type:** Inline 6
- **Displacement:** 1998 cc (or 121.9 cubic inches, if you're feeling imperial)
- **Power Output:** 104 horsepower (105 PS) at 5300 rpm
- **Torque:** 117 lb-ft (159.0 Nm) at the same 5300 rpm party
- **Fuel System:** Twin Stromberg carbs (because carbs are like the crumpets of the automotive world)
- **Aspiration:** Naturally aspirated (no turbochargers here—just pure, unadulterated engine charm)
- **Compression Ratio:** 9.25 (which is like the perfect blend of Earl Grey tea, if Earl Grey were combustible)
- **Transmission:** A classic 4-speed manual gearbox (because shifting gears is like playing a symphony on the open road)
And there you have it—the heart and soul of the GT6 Mark 3, wrapped in a sleek coupe body. If you ever find one parked in a garage, give it a nod of appreciation—it's a piece of automotive history that deserves a spot in the classic car hall of fame.
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Performance
**Performance?** You've got it. Let's break it down like a classic car enthusiast at a vintage auto show:
1. **Top Speed:** The GT6 Mark 3 could stretch its legs to a respectable **112 mph** (that's approximately **180 km/h** for our metric-minded pals). Not quite warp speed, but enough to make your tweed cap flutter in the wind.
2. **Acceleration:** Picture this: you're at the traffic lights, engine growling, heart racing. When that green light winks at you, the GT6 Mark 3 sprints from 0 to 60 mph in a sprightly **10.1 seconds**. It's like a well-mannered British gentleman suddenly deciding to break into a jig.
3. **Power Plant:** Under the bonnet (or hood, if you prefer), you'll find a **2.0-litre inline-six engine**—a gem borrowed from its Triumph Vitesse sibling. This powerhouse churns out **98 bhp** (or **105 PS**, if you're feeling continental). It's the kind of power that whispers, "I say, old chap, let's have a jolly good drive, shall we?"
4. **Torque Talk:** Torque is like the secret handshake between you and the road. The GT6 Mark 3 delivers **108 lb-ft** (that's approximately **159 Nm**) of twisty goodness at **3000 rpm**. Translation: when you plant your foot, it responds with a wink and a nod.
5. **Fuel Sipper or Guzzler?** Well, let's just say the GT6 isn't sipping tea; it's more like sipping petrol at around **20.2 mpg**. But hey, who's counting when you're cruising through the countryside, right?
And there you have it—the GT6 Mark 3, a pocket rocket with a touch of elegance. It's the kind of car that invites you to take the scenic route, wind in your hair, and a map that says, "Adventure this way."
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Spares
If you're looking for **Triumph GT6** spares in the United Kingdom and Ireland, here are some options:
1. **L P Williams Ltd. - Triumph Spares**:
- Set up by Les Williams, the Triumph factory race team manager, they supply parts for unit Triumphs from 1968 onwards.
- Address: Unit 3 South Barn, Claughton LA2 9JX.
- Opening hours: Monday to Thursday 09:00 - 17:00, Friday 09:00 - 16:00.
- Phone: 01524 770956.
- [More info](^2^)
2. **T D Fitchett Triumph Spares Ltd**:
- Specializes in classic car parts, including Triumph models.
- Address: Redland Industrial Estate, Telford TF2 9JX.
- Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 08:00 - 17:00.
- Phone: 01952 619585.
- [More info](^3^)
3. **Triumph Birmingham West**:
- Offers new Triumph motorcycles and selected pre-owned models.
- Address: 91-107 Dudley Road, Halesowen, UK B63 3NS.
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday 09:00 - 18:00.
- Phone: 0121 296 5664.
- [More info](^4^)
4. **Veteran Triumph Spares**:
- Provides vintage Triumph spare parts for models up to 1928.
- Address: Wynforde House London Road, Tamworth B78 2BP.
- Phone: 07773 324238.
- [More info](^5^)
Remember to check their availability and specific parts for your Triumph GT6 model.
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Specialists
1. **Phillip McCallen Motorcycles:**
- Now, before you raise an eyebrow, let me assure you that Phillip McCallen isn't just about two-wheelers. Nope, they've got a soft spot for classic cars too. Located at **Unit 10/11 Portman Business Park, Lissue Industrial Estate West, Moira Road, BT28 2XF**, they're like the automotive equivalent of a cozy pub where everyone knows your car's name.
- Their opening hours are as predictable as a cup of Barry's tea: **Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM**, and **Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM**. Give them a buzz at **028 9262 2886** if you want to chat GT6s or just discuss the weather (because that's what we do in Northern Ireland).
- Oh, and they've got a solid **4.7-star rating** on Facebook. That's like winning the Ulster Rally of customer satisfaction.
2. **Jigsaw Racing (World Renowned, No Less!):**
- Picture this: a workshop where GT6s go for spa days. Jigsaw Racing, the GT6 whisperers, restored a GT6 Mark 3 in **2013**—and they documented it like a proud parent. Their address might be a bit elusive (like a leprechaun's hideout), but they're worth seeking out.
- You'll find their handiwork showcased in a comprehensive photo gallery. It's like a GT6 scrapbook—each stage lovingly catalogued. So, if your GT6 needs a massage, a new set of Zenith-Stromberg carburetors, or just a pep talk, Jigsaw Racing is your go-to.
3. **Online Forums and Clubs:**
- Sometimes the best specialists are fellow enthusiasts who've tinkered with their own GT6s. Check out **Club Triumph Ltd**—they're like the extended family you never knew you had. They've got threads on GT6 restorations, tips, and camaraderie.
- And hey, if you're feeling adventurous, organize a GT6 meetup at a cozy pub (preferably one with a peat fire). Swap stories, share spanner-wielding wisdom, and maybe even find a hidden stash of NOS parts.
Remember, finding a GT6 specialist is like finding a four-leaf clover—it takes a bit of luck and persistence. But fear not, my friend. Whether it's tuning those Strombergs or coaxing out that sweet inline-six symphony, your GT6 will be in good hands.
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Racing
The Triumph GT6—a spirited little coupe that's like the automotive equivalent of a well-brewed cup of tea: classic, invigorating, and just a tad British. Let's dive into its racing adventures:
**1. **The Spitfire Racing Connection:**
- Picture this: back in the swinging '60s, Triumph had a little gem called the Spitfire. It was like the cheeky younger sibling of the GT6. Now, the Spitfire had its moment in the spotlight—racing at prestigious events like the **24 Hours of Le Mans**. And guess what? It snagged a **1st in class** there, beating its rivals (those cheeky MG Midgets).
- The Spitfire's success on the track caught Triumph's attention. They thought, "Hey, why not give our GT6 a taste of the racing pie?"
**2. **The GT6 Takes the Stage:**
- Enter Giovanni Michelotti, the Italian design wizard behind the GT6's sleek fastback shape. His design for the Spitfire GT4 prototype (which had a fastback rear end) was adopted by Triumph's racing program. Why? Because it promised better aerodynamics than the standard Spitfire body shape.
- Fiberglass copies of the Spitfire GT4's fastback were slapped onto the race-modified Spitfires. The result? A GT6 with a hint of racing DNA.
**3. **The GT6 Mk III:**
- Fast-forward to the GT6 Mark 3 (or Mk III, if you're feeling Roman). This was the final major facelift for the GT6, and it strutted onto the scene in **1970**.
- What changed? Well, the entire bodyshell got a makeover: a cut-off rear end, recessed door handles, and a smoother front. It's like the GT6 went to a stylist and said, "Make me look fast!"
- But did it race? Oh, indeed! The GT6, as a true sports car, hit the track and danced its six-cylinder jig.
**4. **The Legacy:**
- While the GT6 didn't dominate racing circuits like a turbocharged beast, it held its own. Minor visual tweaks happened over the years, and it even ditched the "lower-wishbone" rear end for the Spitfire's "swing-spring." Roadholding power? Still intact.
- Now, in the UK, the Mk3 was the pick of the GT6 family. It's like choosing the crispiest fish and chips—utterly satisfying. 🇬🇧
Ah, the legends of the track—the ones who pushed the Triumph GT6 to its limits, leaving tire marks and tales of daring behind. Buckle up, my friend, because we're diving into the world of GT6 racing heroes!
1. **Jon Wolfe Racing:**
- Imagine the Nordschleife—the infamous Green Hell—where every corner is a challenge, every straight a test of mettle. Jon Wolfe, Driver/Owner, piloted his "awesome Triumph GT6 Mk II" to outright wins at the Nordschleife, Monza, and Brands Hatch.
- But that's not all. Jon's GT6 danced through the Swinging Sixties, snagging class wins in the FISC and CSCC series. It's like the GT6 whispered, "Hold my tea; I've got this."
- If you want to peek under Jon's GT6's bonnet (metaphorically speaking), check out his impressive specification on his [Classic Racing Pages](http://www.jonwolferacing.com/)—it's like a love letter to horsepower.
2. **R.W. 'Kas' Kastner:**
- Kas Kastner—a name that echoes through Triumph racing history. Back in the early '60s, he kickstarted the USA Triumph Competition Department. His mission? Power. More power. And then some more power.
- Kas authored the Triumph Preparation manuals, guiding racers through the art of squeezing every drop of performance from their Triumphs. Engine dynamometer testing? Yep, he practically invented it.
- Legend has it that Kas once whispered to his GT6, "You're not just a car; you're a symphony of revs and rubber." And the GT6 listened.
3. **GT6R Prototype (The Stillborn Hero):**
- Now, let's rewind to the swinging '60s. Triumph had a vision: a racing GT6. The GT6R prototype was born—a beast with Weber carburettors, around 170 bhp, and dreams of Le Mans glory.
- But fate played its hand. After the 1966 Monte Carlo Rally debacle (where winning Minis were disqualified), the racing program halted. The GT6R prototype was dismantled—or was it? A bodyshell survived, hidden away like a secret treasure.
4. **GT Legends (In the Virtual World):**
- Okay, this one's not real-world racing, but it's still legendary. In the game GT Legends, you can slide behind the wheel of classic touring cars from the '60s and '70s. The GT6 is there, roaring on European racetracks. It's like time travel with a steering wheel.
- Collect over 90 original FIA GTC-TC team vehicles, and let your driving skill shine. Just remember, in the virtual world, there's no oil leak to worry about.
So, there you have it—the GT6 racing legends: from the asphalt of reality to the pixels of gaming. They've left their tyre tracks in our hearts, reminding us that sometimes, the best race isn't against others—it's against our own limits.