Description
Triumph Spitfire MK IV | 1977
Highlights:
- Classic British roadster charm in cabriolet form
- 1.5-litre engine with 69 hp and manual transmission
- Repainted from white to green in 1994, maintaining a tidy appearance
- Leather seats and wooden interior details in good condition
- H registration in Germany and recent new tyres
The seller offers for sale this 1977 Triumph Spitfire MK IV cabriolet, a classic open-top sports car representing the essence of British motoring spirit. Under its hood sits a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine delivering 69 hp, paired with a manual gearbox which is described as shifting smoothly. The car underwent a colour change from white to green in 1994 and is presented in an overall good state, with no major paint corrections necessary. Registered in Germany with historic (H) plates, it benefits from a status that acknowledges its classic heritage. Notable equipment includes leather seats and wood trim inside the cabin, a convertible top reported to be in good condition, new tyres, and a radio with speakers already installed. The car comes with various invoices, a tonneau cover, and chrome trim rings for the wheels. The Spitfire retains its classic simplicity without modern technical upgrades such as power steering or disc brakes.
The exterior is described as being in good condition, though minor paint chips or scratches may be present, and small body or paint corrections could be necessary. The repaint to green from its original white has held up well, and no significant body repairs are noted. The soft top is in good shape. Inside, the Triumph offers a pleasant ambiance with neat leather seats showing only light wear, and wooden accents adding a classic touch. The interior is generally clean, although minor replacement parts may be needed for small defects or missing components. Mechanically, the car is reported to be solid and holds a valid technical inspection certificate.
The Triumph Spitfire MK IV carries forward a distinguished lineage of small British sports cars first introduced in the early 1960s. Originally designed by Giovanni Michelotti, the Spitfire quickly gained a reputation for its sleek lines, spirited driving experience, and affordability, making it popular both in Europe and the United States. The MK IV, produced from 1970 to 1974, and with some later models rolling into the 1977 model year in various markets, brought several refinements over earlier iterations. It featured a revised rear suspension design aimed at improving handling stability—a crucial development over earlier swing-axle arrangements notorious for unpredictable cornering behaviour. The MK IV also received styling updates with a squarer rear end, simplified trim, and a tidier, more modern interior compared to its predecessors.
Despite modest power output from the 1.5-litre engine, the Spitfire’s lightweight construction delivers a nimble, engaging drive that many enthusiasts continue to appreciate. The car’s simple mechanics and parts availability make it relatively straightforward to maintain compared to other classics. It was often seen as a rival to the MG Midget and Austin-Healey Sprite, yet offered a distinct appeal with its sleek styling and unique Triumph character. The Spitfire played a significant role in Triumph’s export success, helping the brand remain competitive in global markets during the challenging automotive climate of the 1970s. Over time, the Spitfire has earned a place as a symbol of classic British motoring, evoking nostalgia and a sense of driving purity rarely matched by modern cars. It remains popular today with collectors and weekend drivers seeking an accessible route into classic sports car ownership. Values for good examples have steadily risen in recent years as enthusiasts recognise both its historical importance and driving enjoyment.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Lower Saxony State, Germany.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a German registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
