Production | |
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Model Year: | 1969 |
Production Years: | 1969 - 1975 discontinued in 1975 |
The Triumph 2.5 PI MK I, produced between 1969 and 1975, is a classic British sedan renowned for marrying sportiness with luxury in a mid-sized car format. As the first generation of the 2.5 PI MK series, this model succeeded the standard Triumph sedan offering by introducing Bosch mechanical fuel injection (‘PI’ stands for Petrol Injection), which improved throttle response and power delivery compared to carbureted variants. The vehicle was designed as a four-door sedan, emphasizing spacious passenger accommodation while maintaining the sleek, elegant lines distinctive of Triumph styling during the late 1960s.
In terms of dimensions, the Triumph 2.5 PI MK I sedan offered a balanced profile commonly appreciated in classic British sedans. Its length typically measured around 4,450 mm (175.2 inches), providing ample interior space without compromising maneuverability in urban environments. The width was approximately 1,676 mm (66 inches), granting sufficient shoulder room inside the cabin. Standing at roughly 1,370 mm (53.9 inches) tall, the car presented a low stance that enhanced its aerodynamic profile and sporty image.
Weight varied with equipment and trim but generally hovered around 1,182 kg (2,605 lbs), which allowed the 2.5-liter inline-6 engine with mechanical fuel injection to deliver a balanced combination of power and efficiency for its era. The chassis and suspension were tuned for a comfortable yet engaging driving experience, characteristic of Triumph’s approach to sedans that blended everyday usability with spirited driving dynamics.
Produced over six years, the 2.5 PI MK I remained a popular choice among enthusiasts favoring British automotive heritage. Its production run from 1969 to 1975 highlighted its ability to compete effectively amid evolving automotive technologies while retaining classical styling cues. Today, the Triumph 2.5 PI MK I represents a significant chapter in classic car collections, known for its distinctive mechanical fuel injection system and aesthetically pleasing sedan design.
Discover the standout features that make the 1969 Triumph 2.5 PI MK I a leader in its class
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The Triumph 2.5 PI MK I features an overall length of approximately 4,600 mm (181 inches). This length positions it firmly in the mid-size sedan category of its era, allowing for a comfortable interior space while maintaining manageable external dimensions suitable for urban and suburban driving. The length impacts not only passenger comfort but also influences parking ease and garage compatibility.
The Triumph 2.5 PI MK I measures about 1,695 mm (66.7 inches) in width and around 1,395 mm (54.9 inches) in height. These dimensions contribute to the car's classic sedan profile, offering sufficient cabin width for comfort without sacrificing aerodynamic form. The height ensures good headroom inside the cabin while maintaining a low center of gravity for improved handling.
The Triumph 2.5 PI MK I was introduced as an update to the original 2.5 PI model, maintaining a similar size profile with subtle refinements rather than major dimension changes. While the overall length and width stayed close to the predecessor model, improvements in design led to better utilization of interior space and slightly enhanced ride quality. The MK I maintained the vehicle’s classic proportions with no significant increases in size, preserving the established balance of comfort and drivability.
The curb weight of the Triumph 2.5 PI MK I is approximately 1,270 kg (2,800 lbs). This relatively moderate weight contributes to the vehicle’s agile handling characteristics and decent fuel efficiency for its time. The weight balance is typical for a mid-sized sedan with a 2.5-liter engine, supporting responsive driving dynamics without compromising the stable ride quality expected from classic sedans of the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Yes, the Triumph 2.5 PI MK I fits into a standard residential garage with relative ease. Typical single-car garages are approximately 2,400 mm to 3,000 mm (8 to 10 feet) in width and about 6,000 mm (20 feet) in length, while the car measures about 1,695 mm (66.7 inches or 5.56 feet) wide and 4,600 mm (181 inches or 15 feet) long. This provides enough clearance for opening doors and maneuvering, making it well suited for contemporary garage standards without requiring special accommodations.
The Triumph 2.5 PI MK I typically seats five passengers comfortably, with two front bucket seats and a rear bench accommodating three adults. The vehicle’s interior space reflects its sedan design, providing adequate legroom and headroom for passengers in both front and rear compartments. Although less spacious than modern cars, it was considered roomy for its category at the time, with well-padded seats and supportive cushions contributing to a comfortable ride.
Compared to other mid-size sedans of the late 1960s and early 1970s, such as the Ford Cortina or the Morris Marina, the Triumph 2.5 PI MK I is generally comparable in length and width but often regarded as having a slightly sportier, more compact feel. Its length of approximately 4.6 meters (181 inches) places it in the mid-range of the segment while giving it a distinctive, somewhat upscale presence typical of British executive cars of the period.
The Triumph 2.5 PI MK I is notable for its pioneering use of the Bosch fuel-injection system, which was quite advanced for its time. This system significantly improved engine efficiency, throttle response, and power delivery over traditional carbureted setups. The 2.5-liter inline six-cylinder engine could deliver about 150 horsepower, providing smooth and lively performance while optimizing fuel consumption and emissions relative to contemporaries.
The Triumph 2.5 PI MK I features a classic British sedan design characterized by clean, angular body lines and a prominent front grille. Its styling includes chromed bumpers, round headlamps, and distinct badging, all contributing to a sophisticated and timeless look. The relatively compact yet well-proportioned body style reflects the era's elegance, blending functionality with subtle luxury touches that were hallmarks of Triumph’s design philosophy in the late 1960s.
The Triumph 2.5 PI MK I uses front disc brakes combined with rear drum brakes, which was standard for performance-oriented sedans of the time and a significant upgrade over earlier braking systems. For suspension, it employs independent front suspension with coil springs and a live rear axle with leaf springs. This combination provides a balance between ride comfort and handling agility, delivering stable, responsive driving dynamics suited to both urban and highway conditions.