The 'Mark I' was built between 1963 and 1969; a substantial facelift styled by Michelotti came in 1969, updating the car for the 1970s. It came in saloon and estate forms.
In 1968 the 2.5 PI Mark I was launched, fitted with a Lucas Automotive mechanical fuel injection system. Performance was very good, but the PI models gained a reputation for unreliability and poor fuel economy. Because of the launch late in the Mark I's life, there are relatively few PIs in the original shape.
In 1969, the Mark II range was launched, aping the look of the then-upcoming Triumph Stag grand tourer. There were entry-level 2000 models, which were the most plentiful, but the remainder of the range consisted of 2500, 2500 TC and 2500 PI models. Apart from the PI models, all Triumph 2000 and 2500's had twin Stromberg or SUcarburettors, so the 'TC' designation is confusing. In 1975 the 2500S model, with 14 inch (356 mm) wheels and anti-roll bar, was added and replaced the PI models.
The Mark II, the last big Triumph car, ceased production in 1977, supplanted by BL's corporate executive car, the Rover SD1. A few were still being registered in New Zealand as late as 1979, and many were still on the road in the 1990s. Sir Robert Muldoon, New Zealand's then-Prime Minister, privately owned a 2500S and had been known to drive to work in it.
Mark 2 Time Line
2000 Mk2 - Oct 69 to May 75
2000 TC - May 75 to Oct 77
2.5 PI Mk2 - Oct 69 to May 75
2500 TC - May 74 to Oct 77
2500 S - May 75 to Oct 77
