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The 1938 Triumph Speed Twin and 1959 Triumph TR6 Trophy represent two chapters in Triumph's storied history.
The 1938 Triumph Speed Twin from United Kingdom was powered by a 498cc OHV twin producing 27hp at 6300rpm. Weighing 168.0kg (370 lbs) and with a seat height of 780mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1959 Triumph TR6 Trophy by contrast offered 649cc of OHV twin power, delivering 40hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 170.0kg (375 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. Pre-war motorcycles are extremely rare and highly sought after by serious collectors, with values appreciating steadily year over year.
The 1938 Triumph Speed Twin from United Kingdom was powered by a 498cc OHV twin producing 27hp at 6300rpm. Weighing 168.0kg (370 lbs) and with a seat height of 780mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1959 Triumph TR6 Trophy by contrast offered 649cc of OHV twin power, delivering 40hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 170.0kg (375 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. Pre-war motorcycles are extremely rare and highly sought after by serious collectors, with values appreciating steadily year over year.
Specifications Comparison
| 1938 Triumph Speed Twin | 1959 Triumph TR6 Trophy | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 649 cc |
| Power | 27 hp | 40 hp |
| Torque | 36.0 Nm | 48.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 148 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 168.0 kg | 170.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 180.0 kg | 183.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 780 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Triumph machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1938 Triumph Speed Twin laid the groundwork with 27hp, while the later 1959 Triumph TR6 Trophy pushed output to 40hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1938 Triumph Speed Twin holds the edge with a 9/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Triumph collection.
About the 1938 Triumph Speed Twin
The 1938 1938 Triumph Speed Twin packs a 498cc OHV twin engine with 27hp into a standard motorcycle package from Triumph.
Full 1938 Triumph Speed Twin Profile →About the 1959 Triumph TR6 Trophy
Introduced in 1959, the 1959 Triumph TR6 Trophy features a 649cc OHV twin engine producing 40hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1959 Triumph TR6 Trophy Profile →