1978 TRIUMPH SPITFIRE 1500

This Triumph Spitfire 1500 is a great example of the last generation of the marque’s character roadster. Powered by a 1.5-litre inline-four engine, the 71hp engine drives the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. The odometer indicates 83,469 miles.

First registered on 14 August 1978, this Spitfire was finished in the timeless colour combination of red over black, and still presents very well today. These fifth-generation Spitfires used the body shell of the MkIV models, but were fitted with the upgraded 1500 engine, which was much more usable in traffic thanks to its increased torque.

Still looking as elegant as ever, the exterior condition of this Spitfire 1500 is very impressive indeed, with the red paint – which is believed to be original – drawing plenty of attention, complete with ‘Spitfire 1500’ graphics. There is a small dent on the bonnet and minor scratching on the rear offside wing, but otherwise this 1500 is in fine condition for its age. Its standard wheels have been upgraded to a set of Minilite offerings which look fantastic. The car comes with both the folding soft top and the matching factory hard top, and the latter would benefit from some cosmetic TLC to rejuvenate its appearance.

Inside, this example presents very well, with only very minor signs of age-related wear. The seat material still looks taught with no rips, scuffs or tears, though the vendor is uncertain whether the car has benefitted from a re-trim at some point in its history. Everything is reported to be working correctly in the cabin, with no known faults or warning lights. In the boot, there are no signs of water ingress and the carpet is in good condition. The spare wheel, cover and wheel brace are all present and correct.

The car benefits from a number of upgrades to make it more usable in modern conditions. The engine is fitted with hardened valves to accommodate unleaded fuel, while it also has an aluminium rocker cover and radiator, along with a chromed alternator, which all come together to transform the look of the engine bay. The last service was carried out during February 2020 by Denyer Classic Cars of Chobham, Surrey, with the standard oil and filter change being taken care of.

With the last MOT taking place on 25 February 2021 and resulting in a clean pass, this Spitfire is ready and raring to go. The vendor states that the car sounds great and drives very well.

The Triumph Spitfire is a popular and stylish British sports car, with many considering the 1500 to be the best iteration of the model. Presenting in smart condition and running smoothly on standard unleaded fuel, this Spitfire 1500 is a compelling proposition for anyone seeking a usable 1970s roadster, whether as addition to an established collection, or as an introduction to classic car ownership.

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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.