Highlights

Recent restoration
Excellent condition
Comprehensive history
Mot and tax exempt

The Appeal

The Spitfire was launched by Triumph back in 1962, a small lightweight sports car powered by an eager 1,147cc four-cylinder, 63bhp engine. Designed by the Italian designer Giovanni Michelotti, it went through several iterations right through to 1980, the final model being the 1500, which was produced from 1975, and is one such model being offered up for auction here. Over that period, the styling was a revised a few times and the interior certainly had some fettling to make it a more comfortable ride.

This fine example was purchased by the current owner in 2018 from a Triumph owners club enthusiast, and while his intention was to use it for regular sunny day outings, the reality was somewhat different and he hasn’t managed to take it out nearly as much as he would have liked, clocking up fewer than 100 miles in five years, mainly from trips to the local MOT station. However, it has been garaged and kept on trickle charge throughout, with regular starts and warming the engine up every month or so.

Restored in 2014 it has barely done 2000 miles since and is presented in all round excellent condition, ready to be enjoyed right away.

The History and Paperwork

Supplied new in 1979
Body off restoration in 2014
V5c present
Genuine documented mileage
Owner’s manual, several workshops manuals and original Triumph service book/passport
Good service history with large file of MOTs, invoices and receipts for work done
Historic vehicle
MOT and Tax exempt
2 sets of keys
Spare wheel, jack and brace

The Interior

Remarkably clean and very presentable cabin with upgraded white vinyl dash
Newly refurbished seats in black vinyl
Vinyl steering wheel cover
Additional twist LED dash light
2 x USB connectors
Dashboard and trim are free from any cracks or damage
Upgraded face-off Kenwood CD player and FM radio with two speakers fitted in rear
No rips or tears in the roof
Wind deflector
Tonneau cover included
All gauges and electrics work
Door cards all new
New carpets look immaculate
Clean carpeted boot with full-size spare matching wheel

The Exterior

Resprayed in Leyland White paintwork which looks excellent apart from a few small areas, notably:
Tiny dent in nearside front wing and offside door (hardly visible)
Small amount of rust to lower nearside rear wheel arch
Original wheels have look very good and tyres have plenty of tread
Wing mirrors and trim all present well including the door handles and the bumpers
Underneath appears good and solid
Lights all work and are free from any cracks or damage

The Mechanics

1,493cc petrol engine
4-speed manual gearbox
Upgraded larger radiator fitted in 2014
Recent new battery
2014 restoration included powder coating chassis, replacing front springs and brake pipes
Engine stripped in 2014 – timing chain inspected and crankshaft thrust washers replaced
Stainless steel exhaust fitted in 2014
Nice and clean engine bay
Great service history
The vendor advises that the car is in excellent mechanical shape, starting and driving very well with no major issues to report or advise

The Summary

A great opportunity to own a classic British roadster in great all-round condition. Will suit someone that wants a car they can just get in and go without doing too much work, but could equally slide nicely into an existing collection. Either way, it’s a perfect choice for anyone looking to enjoy the roads with the wind in their hair.

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.

UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.

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