Buyer’s Guide — Triumph Stag
What to know before buying a Triumph Stag.
Overview
The Triumph Stag was produced from 1970 to 1977, with approximately 25,900 built. Designed by Michelotti, the Stag is a stylish four-seat convertible with a distinctive T-bar roll hoop. The 3.0 litre Triumph V8 engine produces 145 bhp. The Stag suffered from well-documented overheating problems in period that damaged its reputation, but a properly sorted engine is reliable and the car offers grand touring in great style.
What to Look For
| Engine — Critical | The V8’s reputation for overheating is well-known. A rebuilt engine with proper modifications (uprated water pump, aluminium radiator, correct thermostat, improved head gaskets) is reliable. Check service history carefully — has the engine been rebuilt? Is the cooling system upgraded? Overheating history means possible head warpage. |
| Timing Chains | The V8 has two timing chains and they stretch. Listen for rattle on startup. A timing chain job is a significant undertaking. |
| Body | Check sills (structural), front wings (around headlights), rear wheel arches, door bottoms, and the area around the T-bar mounts. |
| T-Bar | Check the T-bar mounting points on the body — stress cracks and corrosion here are serious and expensive. |
| Gearbox | Manual (4-speed + overdrive) or automatic (Borg-Warner). Manual with overdrive is most desirable. Check operation of all gears and overdrive. |
| Rear Suspension | Trailing arm rear — check bushes and mounts for wear. Worn bushes cause vague handling. |
V8 Engine Swaps
Many Stags have been fitted with Rover V8, Ford V6, or other engines due to the Triumph V8’s reputation. A well-executed swap can be reliable but originality matters for value. A properly rebuilt Triumph V8 is the most desirable configuration and is now considered reliable if correctly done.
Parts Availability
Good — Rimmer Bros, Club Triumph, and Stag specialists carry comprehensive stocks. The active Stag Owners Club is an invaluable resource. Most parts are available including engine rebuild components.
What a Good One Should Feel Like
A well-sorted Stag is a wonderful grand tourer. The V8 should be smooth and pull strongly from low revs with a distinctive exhaust note. The car should feel refined and relaxed at cruising speed. The ride should be supple. With the top down and four seats available, it’s one of the most practical classic convertibles. The T-bar means you keep the structural rigidity even with the top down.
Price Guide (Approximate, 2026)
| Project / Non-Running | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Running but Needs Work | $16,000 – $25,000 |
| Good Driver (Original V8) | $28,000 – $42,000 |
| Excellent / Restored (Original V8) | $45,000 – $65,000 |
| Engine Swap Cars | Typically 20–30% less than equivalent original V8 |
Cars with documented engine rebuilds and cooling upgrades command the highest prices. Manual overdrive cars are more desirable than automatics.