Triumph TR6, Blue, for sale in Charlotte, North Carolina, for $14,595.

With a brawny six-cylinder engine inside a timelessly styled 2-seat roadster body, the Triumph TR6 was one of the last great traditional British roadsters. This particular 1973 example has been given a frame-on restoration using its original code 96 Sapphire Blue, and runs every bit as good as it looks. Backed by a stack of restoration receipts, it's a fun, inexpensive way to get into the hobby, or a great addition to a collection of any size.

Although the work was done several years ago and has seen some use, the paint is still deep and lustrous, and the bodywork was well done. An evolution of the TR4/TR5 body, the TR6 still manages to have a unique look all its own, thanks to a redesigned grille and headlights, as well as a squared-off rear end that gave it an aggressive, almost muscle car appearance. It manages to look like a bigger car than it actually is, which is undoubtedly part of the reason for its sales success in the US. In short, this is a car you will be proud to drive and show, and it's an absolute blast on the open road.

Mechanically, it's powered by a relatively large 2.5-liter inline-six, which provides plenty of power for the featherweight car. Torque is impressive, especially down low, and it's obvious that the car was tuned with American enthusiasts in mind. Horsepower is a claimed 125, but in a car that weighs barely 2500 pounds, performance is impressive. Thanks to a pair of side-draft carburetors and a new dual exhaust system, it makes wonderful roadster sounds, and you'll be downshifting just for the sheer joy of listening to the engine. The engine bay is tidy, but not over-restored, so you won't hesitate to hit the road on the next sunny summer day. A 4-speed manual transmission is the perfect dance partner, with a light clutch and a direct feel to the shifter. And if you're a numbers guy, rest assured, because this one carries a 100% matching-numbers drivetrain.

Inside, there's no mistaking that the British crafted the black vinyl interior. With a real wood dashboard full of original Smiths gauges, it definitely has an Old World feel. The seats have fresh seat covers that match the originals, and the carpets have been replaced. New door panels complete the freshened interior, and a recent black vinyl top has been installed.

Underneath, the frame is solid, and it appears that the floors are new-the workmanship is very good, and everything is fully functional. The all-independent suspension is surprisingly supple on the road, making this a car that will tour long distances easily and still entertain you on a curving mountain road. And again, this isn't a trailer queen, it's definitely a car you should drive every opportunity you get. Adding to the car's aggressive appearance are original 15-inch wheels wearing correct redline tires.

There's a reason roadsters like this were so popular for decades. With great performance, wonderful character, and unique looks, this TR6 has all the right ingredients for a fun summer driver. Unlike so many early British roadsters, this one is fully sorted and has a stack of receipts to back up its claims, so it needs nothing today. Finished in a great color combination, this TR6 is an inexpensive way to have a lot of fun this summer.