Triumph TR250 vs TR5: A Tale of Two Six-Cylinders

The Enduring Appeal of the Triumph TR Series

For many classic car aficionados, the Triumph marque conjures images of sporty, engaging roadsters that defined an era of motoring. While the TR6 is perhaps the most widely recognised and celebrated model, its predecessors, the TR250 and TR5, hold a special place in the hearts of many. These two models, though closely related and often mistaken for one another, represent a fascinating chapter in Triumph's sporting heritage. This article delves into the specifics of the Triumph TR250 and TR5, answering key questions about their production, performance, and the nuances that set them apart.

A Brief History: From TR4 to Six-Cylinder Power

Triumph's journey into the sports car market truly began with the TR2 in the early 1950s, establishing a lineage of robust and stylish roadsters. The TR4, introduced in 1961, marked a significant evolution with its Michelotti-designed body, offering a more modern aesthetic and improved practicality, including a proper boot and wind-up windows. However, the chassis and mechanicals, while updated, still owed a debt to earlier designs. The TR4A, released in 1965, brought with it a notable upgrade: independent rear suspension, improving the car's ride and handling characteristics.

The real transformation, however, arrived for the 1969 model year with the introduction of the TR6. This model featured a dramatic restyling by the German design firm Karmann, who squared off the front and rear of the car, giving it a more contemporary and aggressive stance. Crucially, the TR6 also received a significant powerplant upgrade: Triumph shoehorned their new 2.5-litre inline six-cylinder engine into the chassis. This engine, producing a healthy 104 horsepower in its US-market, carburetted form, gave the TR6 a substantial performance boost over its four-cylinder predecessors.

The TR250 and TR5: Two Sides of the Same Coin?

Sandwiched between the TR4A and the TR6, and produced for a very brief period, were the TR250 and TR5. These models essentially married the classic TR4 bodywork with the new 2.5-litre, six-cylinder engine. The distinction between the two models was primarily dictated by their intended markets and, consequently, their fuel delivery systems.

The TR5: Fuel Injection for the UK Market

The Triumph TR5 was destined for the British domestic market and featured a state-of-the-art Lucas fuel injection system. This advanced setup allowed the 2.5-litre engine to produce approximately 150 horsepower. This was a significant leap in performance compared to the outgoing TR4A, making the TR5 a genuinely potent sports car for its time. The fuel injection system not only provided more power but also contributed to better throttle response and fuel efficiency under certain conditions.

The TR250: Carburation for the US Market

Across the Atlantic, the American market received a slightly different, and arguably less potent, iteration: the Triumph TR250. Due to the stricter emissions regulations and the then-current pricing structure for fuel-injected vehicles in the United States, Triumph opted to equip the TR250 with a more conventional twin Zenith-Stromberg carburettor setup. This resulted in an output of 104 horsepower, a considerable reduction from the TR5's 150 horsepower. While this meant the TR250 wasn't as quick as its fuel-injected counterpart, it was generally considered to be more reliable and easier to maintain for the average American owner.

Production End Dates: A Swift Transition

The production run for both the TR250 and TR5 was remarkably short. Triumph ended production of both models after just 15 months, making way for the more extensively revised TR6. Specifically, Triumph ceased production of the TR250 and TR5 in 1968, with the TR6 taking over the mantle in 1969. This brief production window contributes to their rarity and desirability among collectors today.

Performance and Driving Experience: TR250 vs. TR5

When considering whether a TR250 will perform like a TR5, the answer is a definitive no. The difference in horsepower is substantial. The TR5, with its 150 bhp fuel-injected engine, offered a much more exhilarating driving experience. It could achieve 0-60 mph in around 8.7 seconds and reach a top speed of approximately 120 mph. The TR250, with its 104 bhp carburetted engine, was noticeably less brisk. It typically completed the 0-60 mph sprint in around 10.6 seconds and had a top speed closer to 105 mph. While both cars shared the same attractive TR4 body and the same basic chassis, the difference in engine output was the primary differentiator in their performance capabilities.

The choice between carburettors and fuel injection for these cars is a topic of much discussion among enthusiasts. While triple Weber carburettors or a modern EFI system can be fitted to a TR250 to enhance performance, this often involves modifications that may detract from the car's originality. Some owners prefer the vintage look of carburettors and the simpler mechanical setup, while others seek to replicate or exceed the original performance. Richard Good's triple Stromberg or SU setups are often cited as a good compromise, offering improved performance while maintaining a period-correct appearance and drivability.

Key Differences Summarised

To clarify the distinctions, let's look at a comparative table:

Bodywork, Interior, and Weight Considerations

Externally, the TR250 and TR5 are virtually indistinguishable, both utilising the appealing TR4 body. The TR250 features the classic '60s look with its chrome trim and charming front end, while the TR6, by contrast, adopted a more angular and aggressive design penned by Karmann. Inside, many components, including the dashboard, are shared. However, the seats offer a point of difference. The TR250 typically came with more classic-styled seats, whereas the TR6 featured higher-backed bucket seats that offered better support and safety, potentially making them more comfortable for longer journeys or spirited driving.

Weight is another factor. The TR250, according to Moss Motors, weighed in at approximately 2270 pounds. The 1969-1974 TR6 models were listed at 2390 pounds. This slight increase in weight for the TR6 was partly due to its updated styling and potentially heavier components. As production of the TR6 continued, especially in its final years (1975-1976), curb weight increased further to around 2624 pounds, largely due to mandated safety enhancements, which also impacted performance.

Rarity and Collectibility

Triumph produced around 8,484 TR250s for the American market, and an estimated 2,947 TR5s for the UK and other export markets. Today, estimates suggest that only about 600 TR250s survive. This rarity, combined with their unique position as a bridge between the TR4 and TR6, makes both models highly sought after by collectors. The TR5, with its superior performance, often commands a higher price, but the TR250's classic styling and relative simplicity also hold significant appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Triumph end production of the TR250 and TR5?
Triumph ended production of both the TR250 and TR5 after approximately 15 months, in 1968, to make way for the TR6.

Will a TR250 perform like a TR5?
No, the TR250 will not perform like a TR5. The TR5, with its fuel-injected engine, produced significantly more horsepower (150 bhp) than the carburetted TR250 (104 bhp), leading to better acceleration and a higher top speed.

In what year was the Triumph TR250 made?
The Triumph TR250 was produced for the 1968 model year, though production may have overlapped into late 1967.

Is a TR250 a TR6?
No, the TR250 is not a TR6. The TR250 was a predecessor to the TR6, sharing the TR4 body style but featuring the six-cylinder engine that would later be used in the TR6. The TR6 had a distinct Karmann-designed body style.

Which is rarer, the TR250 or the TR5?
While both are rare, the TR5 had a smaller production run than the TR250, making the TR5 generally rarer. However, survival rates for both models are low.

Conclusion: A Cherished Part of Triumph's Legacy

The Triumph TR250 and TR5, though short-lived, represent a pivotal moment in the company's history. They offered a glimpse of the performance potential of Triumph's six-cylinder engine wrapped in the classic, beloved TR4 body. Whether you prefer the spirited performance of the fuel-injected TR5 or the accessible charm of the carburetted TR250, both cars are undeniably special. Their distinct characteristics, rooted in their intended markets and engineering choices, ensure they remain fascinating subjects for enthusiasts and collectors alike, each offering a unique way to experience the thrill of classic British motoring.

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