In the 1960s, as Triumph continued to lead British car manufacturers in performance, the TR250 was introduced to the American market in 1968 as an upscale version of the successful TR4. It offered smooth six-cylinder carbureted power, but it had no more horsepower than the outgoing four-cylinder. In sharp contrast, the TR5 PI (Petrol Injection), was conceived as a high-performance model equipped to extract the full potential from the new inline six. The addition of Lucas mechanical fuel injection allowed the engine to rev to 6,000 rpm, develop 50% more horsepower, and shave an astonishing 20 seconds off the 0–100 time set by the TR4. However, the TR5 did not pass US emissions or fuel economy regulations and could not be sold in the US. Instead, only the Stromberg-carbureted 104 hp TR250 was built for the American market. In all, just 2,947 examples of the magnificent TR5 were produced for the rest of the world over a short 13-month production run.

The rare factory left-hand-drive TR5 presented here was acquired by an enthusiast in Holland in the early 1980s as a highly original, low-mileage example, and is the recipient of a finely detailed, thorough restoration to show standards, which is documented in the accompanying photo album. Before the restoration began, countless rare NOS spares were sourced in an effort to achieve the finest TR5 possible. It features a concours-quality finish in black with the rare, optional surrey top in contrasting white. The interior, trimmed in red leather with cream piping, is completed in the original pattern. In a nod to the TR5’s performance capabilities, the wheels have been upgraded to five 72-spoke Borranis with two-ear knock-offs, and are shod with period-appropriate Michelin X redline radial tires.

During the restoration, each of the car’s systems were addressed. The 2.5-litre fuel-injected straight six was refurbished, as was the balance of the drivetrain. Likewise, the chassis, suspension, and brakes received similar thorough attention. Even a quick glance at the Triumph’s undercarriage reveals that this restoration was completed to a quality level befitting its value and importance, A collector and longtime competition enthusiast who raced Triumphs extensively at western states venues from 1955 to 1965 acquired the TR5 in 2013. In homage to his track days, it has enjoyed pride of place in his formidable collection of high-performance sports cars ever since.

There is no question that the TR5 is among the fastest and most coveted of all Triumphs, and sightings in the US are incredibly rare. Exhibiting one at a stateside British car gathering all but guarantees an exuberant reception on the lawn. This TR5 in particular is surely among the best to be found anywhere in the world.