The Triumph TR7 was another 'triumph' for motorsport fans, it look set to dominate World Rallying in a way the legendary Lancia Stratos did. Much hype and praise was lavished on it at launch. But, (as with most BL sponsored activites) on paper it looked brilliant, but its actual performance was somewhat less so.
No matter, the TR7 was a welcome edition and was first hinted at in the Race & Chase instruction manual (above). This car was also without glass (see Ford Escort) but retained the metallic green of the 1979 Catalogue example (top).
The silver versions appeared first in the USA. The '20' version (above) is the first example but I am unsure as to whether this was actually issued. I firmly believe instead that the '50' version, with black bumpers, side skirts and 'B' Pillar (below) was the first Speedtrack TR7.
This same version first appeared in the UK with the PT-8000 set 'Silverstone' set in 1980.
At the end of 1980, a red trimmed version (below) was supplied with the 1981 'Indianapolis' set. This trim has also become quite popular in the US, with many carded examples now available on ebay.
The TR7 spawned a dreadful Positraction derivative, and the ultra-ubquitious 'Frog Green' Powertrack Plus version, but it is a cheeky addition to the range and good examples in silver should command sensible money.
