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1966 Triumph Spitfire 4 MK1, factory Overdrive, one owner since 1976, utterly charming.
The original Triumph Spitfire Four MK1 was introduced at the Earls Court Motor Show in 1962, styled by Italian designer Giovanni Michelotti and manufactured at the Standard-Triumph Canley works, it was developed on a shortened variant of the Triumph Herald saloon’s chassis, the Spitfire shared the Herald’s running gear and Standard SC engine. The design used body-on-frame construction, augmented by structural components within the bodywork and rear trailing arms attached to the body rather than the chassis.
In March 1965 the Spitfire Mark II launched with a retuned engine, featuring a revised camshaft profile, water-heated intake manifold, and tubular exhaust manifold, increasing power from the MK1 63 bhp to 67 bhp (50 kW) at 6,000 rpm. Exterior trim featured a new grille and badges, and the interior consisted of revised seats and carpets replacing the original moulded rubber floor mats featured in the MK1.
This particular MK11, a home market ca was built 18th May, 1966, finished in resplendent and now rare Royal Blue with black vinyl seating and black soft top. Dispatched on 2nd June 1966 to the supplying dealer, The Chequered Flag Ltd in Chiswick, London.
Factory fitted options included:
It is understood that an original factory built body-coloured hardtop was subsequently supplied and fitted by the Chequered Flag.
A week later on the 8th June, 1966, the Spitfire was registered to its first owner.
On the 27th March 1976 the Spitfire was supplied by Donald Allen Auto’s in Doddington, Cambs to its second and last owner, a 21st Birthday present and celebration of finally qualiifying to be an auto mechanic. The mileage reading according to the sales order being 67,100 miles.
The car was in regular daily use until the late 1980’s when grandchildren arrived and subsequently replaced by a more practical and comfortable daily driver. Throughout the entire 50 years of ownership the car was routinely maintained and taken great care of. In early 2000 the car was treated to a complete, professional refresh respray. Importantly, no extensive restorative work was conducted, testimony to how well the car was looked after over all those years. As a result the shut lines and panel fit are excellent, rare on any Spitfire, let alone a 60 year old example.
Within the last 5 years, the overdrive has been rebuilt, wire wheel splines overhauled, soft top replaced and seats professionally recovered along with a new carpet set, supplied by Newton Commercial.
This really is a special example with great provenance, low and long term ownership, 50 years – that’s really quite unique, especially at this price point. A difficult car to replace and an utter joy to own. Great for a warm summer evening’s drive in the countryside. Easy and affordable to maintain with parts being readily supported without breaking the bank.
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