Lot Ended
Description
With the vendor for over 31
years; current V5C shows only one former keeper; showing only 16,765 miles;
considerable restoration and preservation work over the years; structurally much
work has been undertaken, the exterior paintwork was brush-applied some years
ago and consequently the car presents as somewhat scruffy
cosmetically
Launched in 1965, the Mk II Spitfire represented Triumph's
first significant development of the pretty Michelotti-designed sports car that
had been introduced three years earlier. Power was increased from 63bhp to 67bhp
thanks to uprated carburation and camshaft revisions.
First registered in
May 1965, this charming Spitfire is a local mid-Wales car and a wonderfully
long-term ownership example. The current V5C correctly records the vehicle as a
Historic Vehicle and shows just one former keeper and then with the vendor for
over 31 years, acquiring it in 1995. Offered for sale solely due to the owner's
age and health, it has been dry stored and unused for some time but was noted to
start promptly and run willingly on site for photography and video.
The
current owner has undertaken considerable restoration and preservation work over
the years. This has included replacement inner and outer sills, repairs to
sections of the floor, chassis treatment with Hammerite and Waxoyl protection,
Polybush suspension bushes, replacement seat covers and carpets, a new hood,
copper brake and fuel lines, silicone brake fluid conversion, replacement piston
rings and fuel tank sealing. Further enhancements include a stainless-steel
four-branch exhaust manifold and matching exhaust system.
Included within
the sale is a steel hardtop and rear screen assembly which now requires
refurbishment, together with a new and unused hardtop headlining. The original
chrome work presents reasonably well and appears largely serviceable.
The
Spitfire's appearance reflects its honest, usable nature. While structurally
much work has been undertaken, the exterior paintwork was brush-applied some
years ago and consequently the car presents as somewhat scruffy cosmetically.
Nevertheless, it remains an appealing and characterful example whose strengths
lie in its extensive ownership history, documented restoration work and pleasing
originality.
The history file includes the current V5C, original-style
log book, Heritage Certificate, around ten previous MOT certificates and a
selection of invoices and receipts.
A delightful early Spitfire with
enviable provenance, just two owners from new, substantial restoration
expenditure and huge potential for sympathetic recommissioning or light cosmetic
improvement while enjoying one of Britain's most enduring classic sports
cars.
Contact:
david.tassell@brightwells.com