Highlights
- The vendor notes the car was previously restored
- Maintained during current ownership by a former GT/F1 mechanic, we are told
- In current ownership since 2017; reportedly stored in a heated garage and never driven in rain or salted conditions
- Invoices reportedly spanning over 20 years, and a 2013 valuation report
- Matching serial numbers, we are told
The Appeal
The Triumph Spitfire 1500, penned by the Italian designer Giovanni Michelotti, remains one of the most charming and accessible British sports cars of its era. With its compact proportions, eager four-cylinder engine and a driving experience that rewards involvement, it continues to attract enthusiasts who value character over outright performance.
This 1978 example reportedly benefits from an extensive restoration and has since been in the care of a former GT/F1 mechanic who purchased the car in 2017. During his ownership, the car is noted to have been thoroughly inspected and improved with a focus on mechanical integrity, covering the braking system, engine, suspension, and ignition. The vendor reports that the underside is lacquered, with no underseal hiding any concerns. It presents beautifully and is said to include more than 20 years of invoices detailing its upkeep, making it a well-maintained and thoroughly sorted classic sports car that’s enjoyable to drive.
Key Information
- Mileage: 18,912 km displayed; the odometer is reported to have gone around the clock or been replaced, so the reading may not reflect actual mileage
- Country of registration: Belgium
- Registration type: Carte Grise with matching serial numbers, we are told
- Technical inspection status: valid until June 2026
- Technical specs: 1,493cc inline four-cylinder OHV engine that produces approximately 71bhp, four-speed manual
- Paperwork: invoices for work carried out over the last 20-plus years, and a valuation report from 2013 are noted to be included
The Detail
- Front brake callipers reportedly rebuilt with CNC-machined stainless steel billet pistons; front discs replaced with vented items and softer pads fitted
- Rear brakes notes to have been rebuilt with new rear brake cylinders
- Front right trunnion and upright said to have been replaced due to wear
- Suspension and alignment setup reportedly carried out
- Sump and timing chain cover reportedly removed and resealed; the vendor states the engine no longer leaks oil
- Timing chain and sprockets inspected and reported to be in very good condition
- Gearbox and differential oils, brake fluid, and coolant said to have been replaced
- 1-2-3 electronic ignition system reportedly fitted; original Lucas distributor included with the car
- Differential rubber bushes noted to have have been replaced with polyurethane items from Canley Classics
- Said to be fitted with Koni shock absorbers and a stainless-steel exhaust system
- 13-inch Minator eight-spoke wheels fitted, complementing the car's period character
- Porsche rear fog light with original Porsche dashboard switch fitted for MOT compliance
- Lacquered underside
- Annual oil changes reportedly carried out using Duckhams 20/50, along with spark plugs and filters, regardless of mileage
- Driven monthly to maintain optimal running condition
- Driver's side window winder handle is missing its knob; a new replacement is included
- Approximately 5,000 km covered during current ownership
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