Description
Triumph Spitfire 1500 | 1979
Highlights:
- Recently repainted in good condition
- New beige interior and matching soft top
- Fitted with new Minilite wheels
- Mechanically reported as road-ready
- Always stored indoors and well maintained
The seller offers for sale this 1979 Triumph Spitfire 1500, a charming British cabriolet that represents the spirit of affordable sports motoring from the late 1970s. Finished in fresh paint and featuring a host of recent refurbishments, this example offers both visual appeal and the potential for enjoyable open-top driving. Power comes from a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, paired with a manual transmission. The seller reports the car starts without hesitation, produces no smoke, and runs smoothly with no mechanical noises. Gear changes are described as effortless, and all lights and electrical systems are functional.
The exterior of this Spitfire presents in good condition, thanks to a new paint job that provides a fresh and clean appearance. The car is fitted with new Minilite wheels, which enhance its sporty character while respecting the classic design. The bodywork shows no signs of accident damage, underscoring the car’s solid structural state. The seller indicates that the vehicle has always been kept in a garage, contributing to its well-preserved condition.
Inside, the Triumph has undergone an interior refresh. The cabin is described as nearly new, with new beige upholstery that complements the car’s exterior finish. The soft top and tonneau cover are also new and finished in the same beige tone, providing a unified aesthetic that elevates the car’s overall presentation. The interior is does not show any damage or significant wear, suggesting it has been well looked after since the refurbishment.
From a mechanical standpoint, the car is reported to be in working order, requiring no immediate maintenance. Although the vehicle currently lacks a valid technical inspection certificate, the reason for this is solely because it has not been used recently due to the owner’s medical circumstances rather than any fault of the vehicle itself. The car is ready to be enjoyed once registered again for the road.
The Triumph Spitfire debuted in 1962 as Triumph’s answer to the growing demand for affordable sports cars. Designed by the famed Italian stylist Giovanni Michelotti, the Spitfire featured sleek lines, a lightweight structure, and nimble handling. The model underwent several updates over its production run, culminating in the Spitfire 1500 introduced in 1974. The 1500 model brought the largest engine ever fitted to the Spitfire, delivering improved torque and flexibility for everyday driving while maintaining the car’s lightweight charm.
By 1979, the Spitfire was near the end of its production life but remained a popular choice among enthusiasts who valued its simple mechanicals and classic British roadster appeal. The 1500 retained the core characteristics that made the Spitfire beloved: an engaging driving experience, open-top fun, and straightforward maintenance.
Today, the Spitfire 1500 is recognised as a practical and enjoyable classic car, often favoured for its accessible parts supply, ease of maintenance, and enthusiastic owner community. Enthusiasts appreciate the model for its classic styling and the direct, connected feel it offers behind the wheel. Well-presented examples, particularly those that have received careful refurbishment like this one, are increasingly sought after by collectors and casual classic car drivers alike.
Owning a Triumph Spitfire is about enjoying the quintessential British sports car experience—spirited drives on scenic roads, wind in the hair, and the satisfaction of owning a piece of automotive history. This particular example, with its fresh paint, new interior, and mechanical health, presents a promising opportunity for those seeking a turn-key classic with minimal immediate needs.
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 Hainaut, Belgium.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Belgian 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.