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In November 1970, Triumph introduced the Mark IV Spitfire which was a major revision of the MK3. The bodywork was redesigned by Giovanni Michelotti and among the changes the weld line on the top of the front wings was eliminated along with the chrome finisher strips that covered them. A restyle of the rear end bought the styling in line with its stablemates, the Triumph Stag and the restyled Triumph 2000.
The instrumentation was moved from the centre of the dashboard to being directly in front of the driver. Many features that had previously been optional extras became standard fittings on the MKIV Spitfires. Additionally, the gearbox finally got synchromesh for first gear too.
In December 1974, the MKIV was replaced with the Spitfire 1500, dropping the MKIV designation. Production of the 1500 continued until August 1980, making it the longest production run of any Spitfire model.
As it stands today, the number of surviving MKIV’s runs at less than 14% of the total count of remaining 1500’s and interestingly, has now become a rarer car than the MK3.
This delightful MKIV was delivered to its first owner on the 25th January, 1972 by Tourist Trophy Garage in East Street, Farnham, Surrey. A garage once owned by the iconic Hawthorn family. The total price of £1045 being paid and Road Tax being provided free of charge – as stated on the invoice and vehicle order.
Registered JPJ938K and finished in Wedgewood Blue, arguably one of the most attractive Triumph colours and very rare for a MKIV and now more commonly seen on the MK3 model.
For the following 18 years, the car was always garaged and serviced by Tourist Trophy until 1978 and thereafter by J. Sebastian & Son in Alton. All relevant invoices having been kept safely in the extensive vehicle file. In June 1990, the car was advertised for sale in the Triumph Sports Six Club magazine and sold to its second owner. The original magazine featuring in the vehicle history file.
The car has subsequently had a further 6 owners, all of which have kept extensive documentation of all expenditure and taken great care of the car whilst maintaining its originality. The only modification being a reconditioned gearbox fitted in 2001, coupled to over-drive which functions perfectly in 3rd and 4th complimenting the car and making it more relaxing to drive.
All original pre VOSA MOT certificates are current as follows:
16/12/74 21,679 miles
11/12/75 25,859 miles
22/12/76 26,989 miles
15/12/77 30,982 miles
14/12/78 32,290 miles
04/12/80 34,839 miles
03/12/81 35,743 miles
03/12/82 37,987 miles
28/12/83 42,035 miles
19/12/84 45,508 miles
16/12/88 47,384 miles
27/10/89 48,396 miles
10/04/91 49,204 miles
13/05/95 50,976 miles
23/03/96 51,674 miles
08/04/97 51,863 miles
07/03/98 52,033 miles
16/04/99 52,664 miles
04/04/00 53,511 miles
23/05/01 53,838 miles
04/05/02 54,209 miles
06/06/03 54,540 miles
25/05/04 55,093 miles
09/05/05 55,179 miles
This is one very special MKIV Spitfire. Highly original, non-restored and no evidence of bodged hobbyist repairs that’s often the case with Spitfire’s this age. Panel gaps are perfect, being original, the sills and underside in great shape. The documentation is VAST and includes a copy of both sales order, sales invoice, service book, instruction manual, 1972 Triumph range price list and original sales brochure. The hood is also the original item in excellent condition with its original factory stamps on the Perspex windows. It’s great fun to drive and receives many admiring glances.
A perfect starter Classic being easy and affordable to maintain, economical on fuel and Road Tax exempt. It’s also ULEZ exempt which may be a bonus if you’re looking to use in London.
For added peace of mind, a new MOT will be issued prior to delivery.
