Relativistic distorted-wave calculations are reported for the differential cross section and a complete set of S, T and U parameters for electron impact excitation of thallium from its ground state 6p ²P_1/2 to the fine-structure state 6p ²P_3/2 as well as the 7s ²S_1/2 state, and of lead for the fine-structure transitions ³P₀→³P₁, ³P₂ and ¹D₂. Our results for the asymmetry parameter S_A are compared with the only available experimental measurements from the Münster group and the agreement is very satisfactory.