Description

1975 Triumph Spitfire Mk IV

Running and driving but unused for some years; sound order with hardtop; great value; easy recommission and use and improve

By 1971, the Spitfire was getting a bit long in the tooth so a major revamp was ordered. The new MkIV featured a completely re-designed cut-off rear end, giving a strong family resemblance to the Triumph Stag and Triumph 2000 models, both of which were also Michelotti-designed. The front end was also cleaned up, and the doors were given recessed handles. The interior was much improved: a proper full-width dashboard was provided, putting the instruments ahead of the driver rather than over the centre console. The engine continued at 1,296cc but was modified with larger big-end bearings and the gearbox gained synchromesh on its bottom gear. With 63bhp on tap, it had a respectable top speed of 90mph. By far the most significant change, however, was to the rear suspension, which was de-cambered and redesigned to eliminate the unfortunate tendencies of the original swing-axle design. The Triumph GT6 and Triumph Vitesse had already been modified, and the result on all these cars was safe and progressive handling even at the limit.

A sales invoice from 2000 states this example was sold in North Yorkshire for the princely sum of £800 as a restoration project with no MOT. Invoices on file suggest some considerable restoration took place thereafter, including paint and numerous parts. It subsequently passed to a new owner in 2008 and was last MOTd in 2013, by now living in Somerset.

It has been resting peacfully for the last few years, West End Garage in Bruton being called to get the car up and running in April this year, which they did at the cost of £288.

Running and driving as can be seen in the video, it would benefit from a good service and check-over, representing a budget Classic to use and improve.

Complete with hard top, it comes with its hood in the boot and looks good value at the suggested guide price.

For more information, contact matthew.parkin@brightwells.com