I would like to start by having you NOT asking me for any type of report. The car has not been on the road for over 40 years. If you ask me for any type of report I will delete the conversation 1979 Triumph TR7 Convertible
Rare High-Performance V6 Conversion Project
This is not just a project car — this is a rare opportunity to build a truly unique, high-performance British convertible.
Offered for sale is a 1979 Triumph TR7 Drop Top, a rare factory automatic car, making it the ideal platform for a 700R4 overdrive transmission conversion. Clean, uncut TR7 convertibles are becoming harder to find, especially ones already positioned for a serious performance build.
The Concept: Lightweight British Roadster + Proven American V6 Power
This project was carefully planned around a Buick 3.8L V6 and a 700R4 overdrive automatic transmission, combining classic styling with modern reliability and torque.
Included is a complete engine conversion kit from John’s Cars (Dallas, Texas) — a respected company known for high-quality Jaguar and Datsun 240Z conversion systems. Documentation and parts lists are included with the sale.
Drivetrain Highlights
Buick 3.8L V6 platform
700R4 overdrive automatic transmission
Transmission professionally built and rated for 500 horsepower
Stall torque converter included
Custom driveshaft (correct 700R4 front yoke + TR7 rear differential adapter)
Plug-and-play wiring harness that integrates into the TR7 factory wiring
Instrument cluster professionally recalibrated (speedometer, tachometer, and gauges)
The Buick 3.8L has excellent aftermarket support. Edelbrock offers aluminum performance heads, intake manifolds, and 500 CFM carburetor options — making this combination capable of serious, reliable street performance.
Imagine a lightweight British convertible with V6 torque and overdrive cruising capability.
What’s Required to Finish the Build
The planning and major components are already in place. To complete the project, you will need:
Bodywork and paint (surface rust only — no holes)
14” wheels with 205/60/14 tires (cluster calibrated for this size)
Engine rebuild (engine currently stripped to the block)
Front brake calipers (part numbers available)
Cross-drilled and slotted front brake rotors
Rear wheel cylinders (rear shoes included)
A donor Buick Skyhawk was purchased to secure the correct engine and all critical mounting brackets — these are included.
Extensive New Parts Included
I restored another TR7 previously (the brown car shown in photos) and purchased additional components at that time. This project includes a substantial inventory of new parts:
Buick 3.8L header set
Electrolock 700R4 torque converter lock-up kit
Front spring set
Front gas shocks
Rear gas shocks
6-piece performance sway bar bushing kit
10-piece performance rear link and control arm bushing set
2 anti-dive kits
2 sets of front brake pads
Brand new door weatherstrips
Complete factory-style black seat cover set (2 bottoms, 2 backs) with black headrests
Brand new black convertible top
This is a serious, well-planned build package — not a random assortment of parts.
Why This Is a Unique Opportunity
Rare factory automatic TR7 (ideal swap platform)
Engineered conversion solution from a recognized specialist
Professionally built 500 HP-rated transmission
Significant new performance and restoration components included
Massive performance potential in a lightweight chassis
Projects of this caliber, with this level of preparation and investment, rarely become available.
I have over $10,000 invested in this project between the car, conversion kit, built transmission, drivetrain components, and new parts.
I am willing to let the entire package go for $5,000 firm.
This represents a significant value for someone ready to complete a unique, high-performance convertible that will stand out at shows and surprise modern cars on the road.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
I am willing to transport the car if fuel costs are covered.
Cheers.