Triumph Dolomite - Reputation

Reputation

The Dolomite has, perhaps unfairly, gained a reputation for fragility. The introduction of the Dolomite came at a turbulent time for BL and Triumph in particular. A slew of new model introductions, along with the completely new architecture and alloy head/iron block construction of the OHC slant-4, meant that dealership mechanics were not fully aware of the servicing requirements of the engine. In particular, it required the cooling system to be kept in good condition, and partially filled with a rust inhibitor, otherwise corrosion leading to radiator blockages and overheating could occur. The Dolomite is a relatively rare sight on British roads with only about 1300 roadworthy examples registered in the UK. However, this is a favourable showing when compared to other contemporaries such as the Morris Marina, of which fewer than 800 examples were still roadworthy by 2006, despite the Marina being a much stronger seller than the Dolomite.