1978 Triumph Spitfire 1500
Description
Launched in 1962, the Triumph Spitfire continually evolved until the end of production in 1980. This final generation (December 1974 through August 1980), dubbed the 1500, featured the largest engine ever used in the Spitfire, a 1,493 cc inline-four. Compared to earlier cars, this added power gave them a more sporting character and was a hit amongst buyers. Italian designer Giovanni Michelotti penned the wonderful body lines and featured roll-up windows, while many competitors still utilized side curtains. A racy car, it won numerous National Sports Car Championships with the Sports Car Club of America, in addition to rallies across Europe. The Spitfire also marked the final Triumph automobile sold in the United States.
Highlights
Finished in Inca Yellow over a beige interior with cloth seat inserts
Powered by a 1,493 cc inline-four and mated to a four-speed manual transmission
Tonneau cover with a center zipper allowing for driver-only open-air motoring
Independent suspension with front anti-roll bar
As per the consignor, in October 2022, the thermostat, belts, fuel hoses, both front brake calipers, brake master cylinder, side marker lights, taillights, battery, and brake wear parts front were replaced in addition to removing and cleaning the fuel tank
Please note that while the five-digit odometer displays just over 53,000 miles, the true mileage is unknown
Features
Front disc brakes
Rack-and-pinion steering
Reclining bucket seats
Walnut veneered dashboard
Cigar lighter
Electric windshield wipers
Anti-dazzle dipping rear view mirror
Heater
Twin sun visors
Padded center armrest
Door-mounted exterior mirror
Demister
Passenger vanity mirror
Known Imperfections
Rust on the rear bumper
Included
Two boxes of spare parts
Ownership History
The current owner of this 1978 Triumph states that their parents had purchased the car in 2009 during a car show in Englewood, Florida. The current owner moved the car to their residence in Indiana in 2012, prior to them inheriting it in 2018.
