1968 Triumph GT6 Mk 1 (KC11805) with Rebuilt Engine, Spares - Driven Weekly

Description for Triumph GT6 1968

This is the original GT6, the one that lacks ventilation and has the quirky swing axles that can unexpectedly narrow the rear track such that Triumph lept to fix them in the 1969 GT6 Plus. Purchased in 1977, I have consistently driven the car or more than 40 years. It rides like a skateboard, the result of reversible suspension modifications to stabilize it for autocross racing. To overcome the capricious swing axles, the front springs were shortened and the rear leaf spring has one reversed leaf to lower the car. Camber change is further restricted using seatbelt straps. A competition sway bar keeps things square in front, and four KYB nitrogen gas shock absorbers keep the wheels down at the rear. 5-inch Triumph rims are mounted with wider 13-inch tires in place of the original 3-1/2 inch rims. These modifications are easily reversed with included spares if desired. The sale includes another set of stock springs, front and rear. The original 3-1/2 inch steel rims are included, as are a set of factory wire wheels and hubs, making three sets of rims in all.

Garaged for over 30 years, the car has been protected from weather but less so against kids' bicycles, beach chairs, and their inevitable fumbles. The odometer shows 126,400 miles. There are multiple paint chips, dings, and some rust in the lower body panels. The 2.0 liter inline six engine was rebuilt last winter by Jeff Davis Automotive of Winter Park, Florida, and the power train again makes all the appropriate whirs, whines, taps, and clicks it is supposed to. It runs at temperature, even in Florida's summer heat, and holds a solid idle. There are about 300 miles on the new engine, which is under warranty for a year. The carbs are also professionally tuned. The work included installation of a new clutch. The 4-speed (non-overdrive) transmission shifts smoothly as long as you don't try to shift it faster than the synchros have determined that you should. A new brake master cylinder and new battery were installed this month.

Notable spares included with the car include: a spare engine (GT6 +), disassembled transmission, multiple rebuildable differentials, wire wheel set with hubs and knockoffs, original 3.5J wheel set, fuel tank, steering column and switches, driver and passenger seats, springs, windshield, driver's side door, taillights, brake calipers, brake cylinders, starter, generator, stub axles, suspension arms, carburetors, distributors, tuneup parts, rebuildable radiators, and miscellaneous body hardware.

Floor mats long ago replaced carpet in front, which decayed as the result of a windshield leak that discourages driving in the rain. The seats have a black upholstery cloth insert for breathable comfort in the Florida heat. You can put in the spare set of original seats if you choose. The headliner is intact.

How rare is the Mk1 GT6? In 2018, data in the United Kingdom showed only 26 Mk1s still registered; only ten are 1968 models. If half of the production was exported...well, you get the idea. Commission No. KC4575LO sold for $23,500 in 2017. Commission No. KC10701 sold for $21,250 in 2016.

The winning bidder will pay $500 via Paypal (nonrefundable) to initiate the sale, or the car will be relisted. Final payment is by cashiers check. I'll be happy to work with you regarding shipping arrangements.