5 WAYS TO MAKE IT BETTER

FIRM UP THE 1 SUSPENSION

While a great-handling car as standard, the suspension is still a bit on the rolly side by modern standards. Gaz and Spax both make adjustable dampers, while Rimmer Bros. sell lowering springs. You can also replace the (likely worn) rubber bushes for polyurethane bushes too.

LIGHT THINGS UP 2

Sealed-beam headlights aren’t really up to the task of keeping up with the Sprint’s performance, so fitting halogen units is essential if you want to drive at night often. You’ll need to fit relays at the same time and, while you’re at it, you might as well fit a proper fuse box too.

FIT ELECTRONIC 3 IGNITION

Accessing the distributor is difficult due to the angle of the Triumph slant-four, making the traditional high-maintenance points and condenser ignition system annoying to work on. Fit electronic ignition for better reliability and running.

FIT REAR SEATBELTS 4

Neither the Dolomite Sprint nor any form of Dolomite ever came with rear seat belts – despite the fact that Triumph fitted the body shell with mounting points. It’s easy to retrofit rear belts, which are essential for carrying passengers.

ADD MORE POWER 5

If you do feel the need to get more performance out of the Sprint engine you have decades of tuning to reap the benefit of. Twin Webers are seen as the ultimate carb option, but twin 2inch SUs from a Jaguar are a more driveable compromise. There’s also a host of hotter camshafts to choose from. Of course, it’s worth making sure your engine is in decent condition before you start modifying – power outputs were variable from the factory, let alone five decades down the line!