1978 TRIUMPH SPITFIRE MK IV 1500 - History: Introduced in...
1978 TRIUMPH SPITFIRE MK IV 1500 - History:
Introduced in 1974 as a replacement for the Spitfire Mk IV, the Triumph Spitfire 1500 represents the final evolution of the famous British roadster launched in 1962. It is distinguished primarily by its 1,493 cm³ engine producing approximately 71 ch, offering more torque than previous versions while retaining the light and playful character that made the model so successful.
Built by Triumph Motors, then part of the British Leyland Group, the Spitfire 1500 retains its design by Giovanni Michelotti, which has become iconic among small British convertibles. Its one-piece hood, which tilts forward, facilitates access to the engine, while its simple design makes it one of the most sought-after classic British cars for restoration today.
Description:
The vehicle presented here is a 1978 Triumph Spitfire 1500, originally from Belgium, which retains its original registration documents as well as its manufacturer’s plate.
This Triumph Spitfire 1500 is in a consistent state of preservation and offers an attractive base for restoration.
The body appears complete and retains all of its original features. The blue paint is original and shows significant dust accumulation, a few cosmetic flaws, normal wear and tear, and several localized areas of corrosion, particularly around the windshield opening, the battery compartment, and certain panel joints. The body alignment is generally satisfactory, although the driver’s door requires adjustment and the hood is slightly misaligned when closed.
The soft top is present and appears complete. The windows are in place.
The interior appears complete with its seats, dashboard, and major equipment. A thorough cleaning and cosmetic restoration will be necessary following a long period of storage.
The engine compartment appears remarkably complete and seems to have retained its original configuration with its Triumph 1500 engine powered by two SU carburetors. The main mechanical components are present. The compartment has a significant amount of dust as well as some signs of surface corrosion, mainly around the battery tray. No mechanical testing has been performed, and a complete overhaul will be necessary before the vehicle can be started again.
The vehicle comes with a set of original documents, including the Belgian registration certificate, the Leyland certificate of conformity, a vehicle inspection certificate, and various administrative documents attesting to its history.
The vehicle as a whole provides an excellent basis for restoration—authentic and relatively complete.
Specifications:
Make: Triumph
Model: Spitfire 1500
Manufacturer: Triumph Motors – British Leyland
Date of first registration: May 30, 1978
Body style: 2-seat convertible
Engine: 1,493 cm³ inline-4
Fuel system: Two SU carburetors
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
Seating capacity: 2
Chassis number: FH111607LO (stamped number not found)
Paint code: JMA (Blue)
Upholstery code: 011 (Beige)
Keys: Yes
Mileage: 4,895 km (not guaranteed)
Documents: Belgian registration certificate in the former owner’s name. The current owner has not transferred the title to his name.
Condition:
The vehicle is being offered straight from storage.
The engine has not been started, and no test drive has been performed.
Sold as-is, considered non-roadworthy, without a technical inspection, for restoration, recommissioning, or for parts.
1978 TRIUMPH SPITFIRE MK IV 1500 - History:
Introduced in 1974 as a replacement for the Spitfire Mk IV, the Triumph Spitfire 1500 represents the final evolution of the famous British roadster launched in 1962. It is distinguished primarily by its 1,493 cm³ engine producing approximately 71 ch, offering more torque than previous versions while retaining the light and playful character that made the model so successful.
Built by Triumph Motors, then part of the British Leyland Group, the Spitfire 1500 retains its design by Giovanni Michelotti, which has become iconic among small British convertibles. Its one-piece hood, which tilts forward, facilitates access to the engine, while its simple design makes it one of the most sought-after classic British cars for restoration today.
Description:
The vehicle presented here is a 1978 Triumph Spitfire 1500, originally from Belgium, which retains its original registration documents as well as its manufacturer’s plate.
This Triumph Spitfire 1500 is in a consistent state of preservation and offers an attractive base for restoration.
The body appears complete and retains all of its original features. The blue paint is original and shows significant dust accumulation, a few cosmetic flaws, normal wear and tear, and several localized areas of corrosion, particularly around the windshield opening, the battery compartment, and certain panel joints. The body alignment is generally satisfactory, although the driver’s door requires adjustment and the hood is slightly misaligned when closed.
The soft top is present and appears complete. The windows are in place.
The interior appears complete with its seats, dashboard, and major equipment. A thorough cleaning and cosmetic restoration will be necessary following a long period of storage.
The engine compartment appears remarkably complete and seems to have retained its original configuration with its Triumph 1500 engine powered by two SU carburetors. The main mechanical components are present. The compartment has a significant amount of dust as well as some signs of surface corrosion, mainly around the battery tray. No mechanical testing has been performed, and a complete overhaul will be necessary before the vehicle can be started again.
The vehicle comes with a set of original documents, including the Belgian registration certificate, the Leyland certificate of conformity, a vehicle inspection certificate, and various administrative documents attesting to its history.
The vehicle as a whole provides an excellent basis for restoration—authentic and relatively complete.
Specifications:
Make: Triumph
Model: Spitfire 1500
Manufacturer: Triumph Motors – British Leyland
Date of first registration: May 30, 1978
Body style: 2-seat convertible
Engine: 1,493 cm³ inline-4
Fuel system: Two SU carburetors
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
Seating capacity: 2
Chassis number: FH111607LO (stamped number not found)
Paint code: JMA (Blue)
Upholstery code: 011 (Beige)
Keys: Yes
Mileage: 4,895 km (not guaranteed)
Documents: Belgian registration certificate in the former owner’s name. The current owner has not transferred the title to his name.
Condition:
The vehicle is being offered straight from storage.
The engine has not been started, and no test drive has been performed.
Sold as-is, considered non-roadworthy, without a technical inspection, for restoration, recommissioning, or for parts.
