1981 TRIUMPH SPITFIRE
ENGINE 1493cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 71bhp@5500rpm TORQUE 82lb ft@3000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 100mph 0-60MPH 13.2sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 21-29mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual + o/d MoT July 2019 ODOMETER 40,460 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
The engine requires a touch of choke when starting from cold, but soon gets up to temperature with a good, strong idle. The car does not smoke, rattle or misbehave in any way. This Spitfire feels very solid and planted and inspires confidence with its pin-point accurate steering. The brake pedal is quite firm and stops the car very effectively in a straight line with no vibrations or noises. The motor is a peach and has been very well tuned, as documented in the comprehensive history folder. It pulls consistently in all gears with no hesitation or flat spots, and the sound it makes is rather intoxicating. Coupled with a smooth and positive gearbox, this Triumph is a joy to drive.
BODYWORK CHECK
It’s hard to believe that this car has never been fully restored – the bodywork is stunning – but it has covered a warranted 40,000 miles from new. Various parts have been replaced and it had a partial respray in the early Nineties, but for the most part, it is in genuine original condition. All panel gaps are straight and true and the car has not suffered any obvious damage. The black hood and tonneau cover are flawless and fit perfectly. The steel wheels are in great condition and the tyres have good tread and even wear. The entire car, including the wheelarches, sills and door jambs, is blemish- and rust-free.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The black/houndstooth trim looks almost factory-fresh. The wood-panelled dash and gear knob – both of which are undamaged – contrast well with the dark upholstery and there is no cracking to the dashboard or signs of any real wear. The carpets and door cards look new. Gaiters are fresh, the Triumph-badged steering wheel looks as though it has just been fitted and everything in the cockpit works exactly as intended; the car even still has its original radio. The interior is in astounding original condition – and even the pedals show little signs of wear.
UNDER THE BONNET
Being a Spitfire with a fullsize tilt bonnet, it’s very easy to inspect the engine and suspension and everything appears to be in fine fettle. The 1493cc motor is exceptionally clean and it’s obvious that it has been fastidiously maintained. Likewise the springs, suspension linkages and bushes are similarly well presented, showing little sign of wear and the brakes are in great condition.
THE CCW VIEW
A comprehensive history folder shows that this Spitfire has truly been cherished. This is a well sorted, unrestored example of the marque that would not only make a great first-time classic, but could take pride of place in a collection. Just make sure that you treat it in the manner to which it has become accustomed.