1965 TRIUMPH SPITFIRE MK II Picture above taken from original ad for a 1963 Triumph Spitfire, s
Introduction The On-going Saga Pictures Database Price List Clubs Events Links Automobile Page Home \spitfire\spitfire.html	The Michelotti designed Spitfire began life around 1956.  He was asked to design a complimentary designto the current model line-up, and base the car on a Triumph Herald (with a shorter chassis).  However, finances in the company could not be aligned right-away, so the project was put off.  Later BMC gave new life into the project, and the marketing began.  In the extremely short time (18 months) from Go-ahead to Production, The Spitfire 4 emerged from the Heralds roots.  Over the next 8 years, the car was modified and changed only slightly from the original formula.  The engine was enlarged slightly, interior trim was introduced, as well as a removable hardtop. The only major change was the introduction of the GT6 in 1966.  The GT6 was not an originally planned addition, and so some development of the inline 6 cylinder engine had to be done.  The GT6, unlike the Spitfire, had a fixed metal roof, in fastback form.  Getting back to the Spitfire, a major re-style was done in 1970 which became known as the "Square-tail" (previous models are known as the "round tail"). The rear styling matched more closely to the Triumph Stag, and other models.  The front was revised too, with all new sheetmetal, however, the original look is still there.  The 1500 was introduced in 1974 and became the most successful model.  The Spitfire did recieve a Bumper makeover with typical 1980s black rubber bumpers in 1980, which didn't save it from the cut list at Triumph. I started with a 1963 Spitfire back in 1998, which was to be a restoration project to take about 2 years.  Well that car was finally scapped in 2004 and in that same year I purchased the 1965 which is identical to the 1963.  The 1965 was a fully restored functional car, so no work was needed.  I have put work into the car, but only to make it better.  To read detailed accounts of this car check ou the "On-going Saga" link at the upper left and you can read my logs.  Also, with time I'll add pictures and data, and other information to the other page links at left. Here are some Specifications: Model Manufacture Date Production Figure Commission No. Engine Gearbox Differential Ratio Spitfire 4 (MK I) 1962-1964 45,573 FC FC FC FC 4.11:1 Spitfire 4 (MK II) 1965-1967 37,409 FC50001- FC FC FC 4.11:1 Spitfire (MKIII) 1968-1970 65,320 FD FD FD FC 4.11:1 Spitfire (MKIV) 1971-1974 70,021 FH FH FH 3.89:1 Spitfire 1500 1974-1980 95,829 FH75001 FM FR FR 3.63:1 Spitfire 1500 (post Oct. 1979) Oct. 1979-1980 See above TFADW1AT(non-overdrive TFADW5AT (Overdrive)         Throughout these pages you will find an assortment of information on the Spitfire.  I also encourage you to visit many of the other Spitfire Pages located in the "Links" page.  If you own a Spitfire, and would like to share pictures and info, feel free to email me (address is on the lower left), and I will happily share webpage space.
If you'd like to email me, please email me at this address:  jason@weatherwarrior.net