Highlights
- Rare US Federal specification with distinctive features
- Engine rebuilt in 2023 with bored cylinders, new pistons and replaced valves
- Thorough and documented mechanical overhaul during current ownership
- In current ownership for approximately six years
- Professional inspection carried out in 2024 with report available
The Appeal
The Triumph Spitfire MK3 US Federal is a distinctive variant of the highly regarded British roadster, originally prepared for the American market with specific features, including side repeaters mounted on the wings, driver-oriented instrument layout, seats equipped with headrests and a padded transmission tunnel. These American specification elements give it a different character from its European counterpart.
This 1970 example has benefited from significant mechanical attention during its current ownership, which dates back approximately six years. The engine was notably rebuilt in 2023, whilst numerous works have also been carried out on the gearbox, braking system, cooling and electrical components. A conversion with a Weber 32/36 carburettor has been installed in place of the original configuration.
Aesthetically, the car features a mohair hood installed in 2022 and renovated front seat foams. The seller describes it as fun, lively and nimble on winding country roads. Registered in France with heritage plates and accompanied by a professional inspection report carried out in 2024, this Spitfire is offered with recent documentation on its maintenance.
Key Information
- Mileage: 3121 miles indicated, approximately 48,457 km; the odometer was replaced in 2020 and the previous one showed 70,796 miles, approximately 113,935 km. The actual mileage is therefore not verifiable
- Country of registration: France, with heritage registration
- Matching serial numbers: no
- MOT status: valid until 10 September 2031
- Technical specifications: 1,500 cc four-cylinder petrol engine, four-speed manual gearbox
- Documentation: maintenance history from 2020 available; 2024 professional inspection report included; no prior history available
The Details
- Engine rebuilt in 2023 with bored cylinders, new pistons and replaced valves
- Conversion with a Weber 32/36 carburettor
- Upgrade from 1,300 to 1,500 cc engine, which, according to the seller, helps to offset the exhaust gas recirculation system
- Fuel tank replaced in 2023
- Water pump replaced in 2024
- Starter replaced in 2026
- Clutch and fuel pump replaced
- Front brake calipers, radiator, ignition harness, coil and belts replaced in 2020
- Distributor cap replaced
- Engine mounts and exhaust replaced
- New mohair hood installed in 2022
- Front seat foams renovated in 2020
- Wood veneer dashboard, three-spoke wood steering wheel and wood gear knob installed; original steering wheel available in fair condition
- American specification features include four side repeaters mounted on the wings, driver-oriented instrument layout, seats with headrests and a padded transmission tunnel
- Fitted with a red, white and blue Royal Air Force roundel
- The paintwork is in generally fair condition, with some stone chips noted on the bonnet, lower left sill and right front wing
- Very little corrosion reported underneath; the floors were previously replaced by a former owner
- The left sill has been repaired
- Carpeting, trim and upholstery reported in good condition
- Windscreen in good condition
- According to the seller, the brakes are progressive and effective, whilst the engine has a stable idle and good throttle response
- The latest MOT notes minor defects, including slight surface corrosion on the chassis, left sill repair and brake pipes slightly under tension
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to Car & Classic's terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also accept the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, which means that consumer rights arising from European consumer protection legislation do not apply. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic's terms and conditions.
✓ We require that non-refundable fees are paid if you are the successful winner of the auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our FAQs and terms and conditions for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is "sold as seen", on an "as is, where is" basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are provided for guidance only and it is customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle before purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final offer or bid price, as specified in the listing.
✓ We want the transaction to run smoothly, just as you do, and that's why cars and motorcycles registered in the UK and sold on Car & Classic are subject to an HPI check to verify that they have no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and are not subject to a financial charge, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are registered as written off as a result of a total loss claim at the time the listing is placed on Car & Classic and we provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) to help you. The presence or absence of a label does not, however, guarantee the vehicle's status and it is always useful to carry out a full vehicle history check before making an offer on it.
✓ Buyers are responsible for collection or delivery of the vehicle. Importing vehicles may incur additional customs duties and import taxes. If you wish, we can recommend a third-party transport company that can assist you. For more details and to speak to the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com.
