The Full Story

1973 Triumph GT6 Mk III

2.5L Inline-6 (Triple Weber) · 200 hp · Lubeck Serial LG064

1973 Triumph GT6 Mk III: the full story

The 1973 Triumph GT6 MKIII marks the final chapter of one of Britain’s most stylish and underrated GT cars. This 2-door fastback coupé captures the essence of classic British motoring with its striking mechanics, smooth curves, and sporty attitude. Inspired by the Triumph Spitfire convertible and designed by Giovanni Michelotti, its vintage charm elicits driving joy in a compact, lightweight package. Originally powered by a 2.0-liter 6-cylinder engine producing 95 horsepower, this particular GT6 MKIII has been upgraded into a unique, high-performance tribute that elevates the car’s original design while preserving its unmistakable character.

At the heart of this reimagined GT6 lies a heavily modified 2.5-liter inline-6, built with forged steel crankshafts, connecting rods, and pistons, as well as a lightweight flywheel. The result is a spirited drive that doubles the output of the original engine to 200 horsepower, breathing through a rare and aggressive intake setup so tall it descends at an angle just to clear the front bonnet.

The drivetrain has also been thoroughly modernized with a 5-speed manual transmission. To manage the substantial increase in performance, this car now features a custom-designed independent rear suspension, an upgraded front suspension, and an improved braking system with 4-piston front calipers. These changes not only emerged out of ambition, but necessity as the original suspension proved unequal to the new engine’s force and failed under the strain during early testing, prompting a total redesign. The updated suspension in this model delivers improved handling and a more confident ride, turning every twist and turn into pure driving pleasure.

Its design, rooted in race-inspired styling, radiates vintage charm while offering the practicality of a fixed roof coupé. Inside, the cabin has been treated to remarkable craftsmanship, with leather-stitched seats accented in blue to reflect the car’s exterior, custom door panels, magnolia-faced gauges, a wood dash, and even integrated air conditioning: subtle luxury woven into a classically styled environment.

Between October 1970 and December 1973, Triumph produced just over 13,000 of the MKIII. It was the last in a series of major modifications following the GT6+, with 1973 being the final year of GT6 production. Due to low sales, Triumph never released an official convertible version of the GT6. Though not a factory one-off, this Triumph GT6 MKIII is as close as it gets: an enhanced reinterpretation of a rare model from a now-defunct marque.

Whether displayed at a car show or carving through scenic roads, the GT6 MKIII offers a blend of character, history, and exhilarating performance that’s hard to find today. A timeless sports coupé, modernized without compromise.