So true Mike, but the smart move was to make the weak engine a boat anchor and install either the Rover 3.5 Litre V8, or the Leyland P76 4.4 Litre V8. hasbeen might have a few stories because there were (and are) a few Stags in Triumph Car Club (T.S.O.A) and his own TR-8 is proof in the pudding. (though his V8 has had a few upgrade "tweaks") The TR-8 my brother owned was a Rocket, with the Rover V8, what a great Engine ! (Shoulda had one in the Stag)