1971 TRIUMPH SPITFIRE MARK IV

This 1971 Triumph Spitfire Mark IV is a smart example of a stylish British classic, presented in very good mechanical order and with a handsome patina. Under the bonnet, the 1.3-litre Standard SC inline-four has been replaced with the 1.5-litre motor from a Spitfire 1500, coupled with a four-speed manual transmission. The odometer currently indicates 34,220 miles.

First registered in October 1971, this Spitfire has just four previous keepers on the log book, and has been with its current keeper for around a year.

To the best of the vendor’s knowledge, the bodywork of this Spitfire has never sustained any notable damage. As a Mark IV, it features a redesigned ‘cut off’ tail section, as well as smoother front wings and revised door handles. The condition of the Ivory White paintwork is described as good, and indeed may well be original, with the vendor noting some age-related cracks and minor blemishes around the front end. The car rides on a set of 13-inch wheels, which appear with some light surface wear.

Moving inside, the black upholstery is also believed to be original and presents well for its age, showing just some modest wear and marks around the material. The vendor has indicated some wear to the glovebox cover, which is hanging down slightly, though the remainder of the interior trim is in sound condition. All of the switchgear is reported to be in good working order.

The last service was undertaken in August 2020 at approximately 34,000 miles, where mechanics fitted a new fuel pump, sender, filter and an uprated radiator, before stripping the carburettors and fitting new plugs and points. Prior to this, routine servicing was carried out in October 2019, with the vendor noting the car has also received new switches, dials, rubber seals and a new distributor.

The most recent MOT test was on 13 September 2019 at 33,635 miles, which resulted in a clean pass with no advisories or defects. While the certificate has expired, the car is exempt from mandatory MOT testing, so can be driven as-is. The tyres are reported to have 5mm-6mm of tread remaining.

Accompanying the vehicle is the original owner’s handbook, as well as a good history file and some old maintenance receipts.

This Triumph Spitfire Mark IV is a well-presented example of a popular British classic, which features an upgraded engine, but otherwise appears as a highly original sports car. The vendor reports that the car runs and drives very well, and that it has evidently been well maintained. It would make a fun and characterful weekend cruiser, and could be an ideal ‘first classic’ for someone more used to modern machinery.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.