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A classic Triumph Spitfire Mk3 with a large history file.

EQUIPMENT
Steel panelled coachwork, up-and-over bonnet, curved glass screen, stainless steel wing beadings, folding soft hood, winding windows, driving mirrors, chrome-plated bumpers with over riders, flush fitting sealed beam headlamps, speedometer, tachometer, temperature gauge, fuel gauge, padded passenger grab handle, ash tray, self-parking twin electric wipers, twin wind-tone horns. Factory options; heater/demister, sun visors. Dealer options; Rear and full tonneau covers, inertia reel seatbelts.

EXTERIOR
The ever pretty Michelotti design and classic looks of this Triumph Spitfire Mk3 are simply delightful and fulfil the ‘iconic British red sports car’ ideal perfectly. Finished in Triumph Signal Red from the original white, the paintwork is bright and has a uniform finish. First restored in 1981 this example shows some age related paint imperfections but is structurally perfect and well suited to classic shows and club outings. The extensive brightwork has been professionally re-chromed and looks pristine, and all other trims sections and stainless-steel wing beadings are excellent. The folding soft top and optional tonneau covers are fully intact with no rip or tears and the plastic rear screen sections are clear and damage free. A timeless classic sports car, presentable and ready for summer fun!

INTERIOR
A smart and tidy interior, original to the car, is pleasing to see. The seats are trimmed in original PVC leathercloth and remain in excellent order with no damage and light wear only, and the matching door cards are fully intact. The factory fitted wood veneered instrument panels holds the original fully functional Jaeger gauges and matching upgrade wood veneer steering wheel and gear knob have been fitted. The moulded carpet remains in good order and the sizeable luggage area and behind seat storage is clean. The period radio also works. A low slung, two-seater sports car interior, very nostalgic and very useable.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
The standard 1296cc four-cylinder unit develops a healthy 75bhp at 6000rpm and original Triumph marketing literature quotes, depending on conditions, a top speed of 100mph and 0-60mph in 12.5 seconds. The engine bay is beautifully clean and a home tinkerer’s dream with the huge front end lifting to allow unrestricted access. This, coupled with simple mechanics and incredible parts support network make these cars are very easy and economical to keep on the road. A stainless exhaust system emits a glorious exhaust note. The four-speed gearbox with synchromesh on 2nd, 3rd and top takes some familiarisation but once mastered is easy to use.

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
The original 4½J steel discs wheel are immaculate and wear stunning chrome-plated nave plates. The tyres are 155/80 R13 with excellent tread remaining. Front 9in disc brakes with 7in rear drums operate exactly as they should but fall short of modern standards.

HISTORY FILE
Registered new on the 12th March 1968, this UK example has previously been subject to a full body off restoration as confirmed by a valuation report by Southern Triumph Services in 2012, whereby the value was estimated at £10,000-£12,000. Since restoration the car has been used and enjoyed and the huge history file contains a massive collection of receipts and invoices to leave in no doubt the meticulous mechanical upkeep that has been maintained. The current owner has attended many shows and has enjoyed it immensely only selling to buy a more modern classic. The driving experience reflects this and allows the next owner to enjoy a very useable and competent Triumph Spitfire. The original handbooks are present to complete a very comprehensive history file to which thorough perusal would take hours! At over 51 years old, this delightful example is entirely ready to venture further into it’s sixth decade of open top classic motoring.

HPI Clear.