Triumph Spitfire
ENGINE 1493cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 71bhp@5500rpm TORQUE 82lb ft@3000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 98mph 0-60MPH 13sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 30-34mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed man + o/d MoT November 2018 ODOMETER 81,577 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
Pulling away, this Spitfire’s welltuned engine runs smoothly and first gear feels positive. Once underway, there are obvious signs of the slipping clutch that the vendor had already warned us about; however, a new clutch will be supplied with the car. The ride is typically a little bumpy without any drama or unseemly noises. The overdrive wasn’t working at the time of the test and it was suggested it had been disconnected.
BODYWORK CHECK
The bodywork seems solid; there’s evidence of welding in some areas, leaving room for further tidying of weld seams. There are no signs of rust. The front panels appear to be a slightly lighter shade than the rest of the bodywork. Some body seams, such as under the sill, could have been better aligned. Some restoration has taken place without masking properly and overspray is noticeable, such as on the windscreen seal. A seam trim on top of the offside flank is partly detached. The recentlypainted steel wheels are in good condition with the correct centre caps. Some tarnishing is evident on the chrome bumpers. The car is being sold with a black hard-top, which is in very good condition.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The black vinyl interior is tidy with the door trims and carpet being in very good order. Age cracks are visible in areas on the seats, but these are not too obvious. The hood is in good condition and effective against the rain, but is let down by its ageing plastic windows which have turned milky and could do with refurbishing. The aftermarket steering wheel is fine to grip, while the functional wood veneer dashboard is in a good, clean condition, housing gauges that are bright and free from deterioration. The heater is stuck on warm air and needs the control valve or core investigating. That aside, all the switches work.
UNDER THE BONNET
With the full front-end bonnet lifted, the whole engine can be seen. While more of a home or driveway restoration, the frame and mechanicals look clean and tidy. Some repairs are visible, but they appear to be rust-free. There are no leaks, and the fluids are clean with no signs of over-heating. The car has recently been given a new exhaust system, including the back box.
THE CCW VIEW
This Spitfire has had five previous owners and comes with receipts for £7000 of restoration work. It looks shiny and sits well. The trade vendor is selling it with a new clutch and a full MoT certificate and will also supply a six months parts and labour warranty. The black hard-top is a nice addition to the car’s ownership and may sway some potential buyers towards this car.