Triumph Spitfire 1500
ENGINE 1493cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 71bhp@5500rpm TORQUE 82lb ft@3000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 100mph 0-60MPH 13.2sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 27-29mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, 4-speed manual + o/d MoT April 2019 ODOMETER 60,562 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
The four cylinders start with the first turn of the motor and immediately the engine note is slightly more purposeful than the norm, courtesy of the twin-tailpipe stainless exhaust; within a minute the choke is redundant. Reverse requires a lift before the stick comes towards the driver and then up, requiring a little thought for non-Triumph drivers. The clutch is firm, as is the throttle pedal, but neither is heavy and the same can be said of the non-assisted steering, while the gear selection is slick. On the road ample performance is available and the handling feels solid, without unwanted knocks or rattles; slightly unusual for the model. Overdrive in thid and fourth works correctly and overall the driving experience is a pleasure.
BODYWORK CHECK
This Spitfire’s restoration is around a decade old but with minimal use since and it appears very fresh and bright. The original paint code 19 is listed but the finish is more of an Old English White and works well. There is a touch-in on the near-side rear wheelarch and a small speck under the paint at the rear of the bonnet. An inspection of the underside reveals nothing untoward. The chrome is in great order but the rear bumper has a small dent. There are also two tiny blemishes under the finish on the front bumper. The original door furniture is bright and the new owner will enjoy the superb soft-top and full tonneau.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
Barely worn carpets and new seat covers continue the high standard along with fresh door panels. The dash would benefit from a polish or wax coat and the outline of a plaque or St. Christopher badge remains. All the dials and gauges operate as they should, but there is no radio. The hazard light switch is missing its top section but a new one is on order.
UNDER THE BONNET
It’s a shame that the mileage cannot be verified; the MoT trail goes back to 2007 and confirms the car has travelled just 7000 miles in 11 years. Its overall condition and fiveowner past would certainly point towards low use and with the huge bonnet tilted forward all appears in order. Chromefinished K&N filters offer some intake noise and complement the alloy rocker cover. More importantly, no leaks of oil or coolant can found and the engine has a new battery, starter motor and ignition parts.
THE CCW VIEW
There’s plenty more to mention about this Spitfire, including the aftermarket wire wheels with Dunlop tyres, which leads to the conclusion that the restoration budget wasn’t small. The result is the perfect summer drive for the less hands-on owner – just jump in and drive because the hard work has been done.
PROS Great appearance, good value, drives well CONS Lack of history, a few small marks
EXTERIOR Splendid finish Decent chrome INTERIOR Minimal wear to trim New seat covers MECHANICALS Drives very well Recent service completed