Highlights

In current ownership since September 2016
Bodyshell professionally stripped and de-rusted in 2017
Numerous body panels, mechanical components, and interior parts renewed during current ownership
Extensive diagnostic and mechanical work carried out by Suffolk Classic Services in 2025
Accompanied by a history file of invoices

The Appeal

The Triumph Spitfire 1500 was the final chapter in the story of Triumph's much-loved small sports car. With its willing 1,493cc engine, simple mechanicals, and timeless British roadster styling, the Spitfire 1500 remains one of the most approachable and enjoyable routes into classic open-top motoring.

This 1979 example is presented in red with a black interior featuring walnut inlays and has been in the hands of its current keeper since September 2016. During that time, considerable effort and expenditure have gone into the car's upkeep and improvement. The bodyshell was professionally stripped and de-rusted by Enviro-Strip in 2017, and a substantial program of panel replacement has followed, with items sourced largely from Rimmer Bros. Mechanically, a clutch kit, oil pump, bush kit, rear springs, air filters, and a stainless steel sports rear silencer are among the parts fitted. The interior has been refreshed with new trim pieces, seat belts, and tonneau fittings. Most recently, in June 2025, Suffolk Classic Services carried out extensive diagnostic and mechanical work totalling over £5,500, addressing carburettor issues, compression and valve clearances, exhaust components, and electrical items. A thick file of invoices accompanies the car, documenting this ongoing program of work.

Key Information

Mileage: 89,139 miles indicated
Country of registration: United Kingdom
Technical inspection status: MOT exempt as a historic vehicle
Technical specs: 1,493cc OHV inline-four engine paired with a four-speed manual gearbox
Paperwork: V5C and a file of invoices from various parts suppliers and workshops

The Detail

Bodyshell professionally stripped and de-rusted by Enviro-Strip in 2017, along with two doors and the boot
Steel boot lid fitted (Rimmer Bros, December 2019)
Rear outer valance, inner and rear wheel arches, guard repair sections, and floor pan repair section fitted
Bonnet support tubes (LH and RH), headlamp cowl, and bonnet locating cones replaced
Borg & Beck clutch kit and oil pump fitted
SuperFlex bush kit and rear springs installed (Rimmer Bros, January 2019)
K&N air filters and stub stacks fitted to SU carburettors
Stainless steel sports rear silencer and exhaust pipes fitted
Interior refurbished with new parcel trays, dash top cover, crash rails, centre console trim, and instrument seating rubbers
Centre console fitted by Newton Commercial
Inertia seat belts, locking wheel nuts, chrome wheel trim rings, and fuse box cover fitted
Replacement hood frame and hood locating pegs/catches sourced from Spit-Bitz
Door hinge replaced
Extensive diagnostic and mechanical work carried out by Suffolk Classic Services in June 2025, totalling £5,545
Carburettors cleaned, seized dashpots cleared, float heights checked, reservoir gaskets replaced, and throttle linkage reset
Compression check and valve clearance inspection carried out
Exhaust components replaced, along with various fuses, relays, and indicator and panel globes
13-inch wheels fitted with a spare wheel supplied
Three-spoke Moto-Lita steering wheel fitted
Black interior with walnut inlays

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

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✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

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