Triumph Spitfire Specs

Three engine sizes, two bodies and one wheelbase, from 1962 to 1980: where the brochures, the road tests and the clubs agree on a Spitfire's figures, and where they do not.

A Spitfire Mk IV in profile, its "Spitfire IV" script on the rear wing (fender), at a kerb in West Auckland, New Zealand, in December 2014.GPS 56 from New Zealand, CC BY 2.0

From the first Spitfire 4 of 1962 to the last 1500 of 1980, the distance between a Spitfire's front and rear wheels stayed the same. Nearly everything else changed. The engine was enlarged twice, bored out for the Mk III and given a longer stroke for the 1500; the body was redrawn once, for the Mk IV of 1970; and from the 1969 model year the cars built for the United States went their own way.

The tables below set the five versions side by side, each figure as a brochure, a road test, a club or a specialist recorded it, with its source. Where good sources disagree, every reading is shown and none is averaged.⁠source 1source 2source 3source 4source 5source 6source 7

Reading the tables

There is a column for each of the five versions, linked to its own page. A row is one item, from the price new to the size of the fuel tank. Each figure carries marks that number its sources in the list at the foot of the page, and a label saying how far it can be trusted; the key above each table explains the labels, and the sources page explains how they are given.

Where the sources give different figures, each has a box of its own with the sources that give it, the preferred reading first. Preferring one hides none of the others. A short note beside a figure says, where it matters, which market, year or test it comes from, or what a weight includes. A cell that reads "Not in the sources read" marks a gap in the record, not a nil.

The production table gives prices new. The numbers built are on each version's own page, where the two disputed figures, the Spitfire 4's and the 1500's, stand with their sources; none of the sources says what it counts.

The American cars' figures are given apart from these columns. The federal Mk III of the 1969 and 1970 model years, the American Mk IV of the 1971 and 1972 model years and the American 1500 from the 1973 model year, its first two model years in the Mk IV body, each has a specification of its own on its version's page, and North American Spitfires tells their story.⁠source 8source 1source 7source 9

Three Spitfires side by side on grass, facing the camera: dark green with wire wheels, white, and red. — Before and after the 1970 restyle, at the Aldham Old Time Rally, Essex, in June 2025: a green Mk III on wire wheels, and a white and a red Spitfire in the Mk IV body, the white one modified.kitmasterbloke, CC BY 2.0

Contents

Units and ratings

Each figure is given in the unit its source printed, or with the printed figure in its note, so a brochure's millimetres can stand beside a magazine's pounds. Motor Sport gave the Spitfire 4's weight in hundredweight (cwt) in 1963, and the note beside that figure gives it in kilograms. A gallon is imperial unless it is marked US. The British brochure of December 1978 printed both systems at once:

Bore 2·9 in. (73·7 mm); stroke 3·44 in. (87·5 mm). Capacity 91 in³ (1493 cm³). Oil capacity 7 pints (4 litres). Twin SU HS4 side draught, emission controlled carburetters. 71 b.h.p. (53 kW) at 5500 rev/min.

BL Cars, Triumph Spitfire 1500 brochure, December 1978

Power needs the most care, because the sources rated it in different ways, and each figure is shown with the rating its source gives. Motor Sport gave the Spitfire 4's as a net figure in 1963; the sources for the Spitfire 4 Mk II name no rating; Motor Sport's tester in 1967 took the Mk III's to be a gross figure; Motor Sport gave the Mk IV's as net in 1971, and the Triumph Sports Six Club calls it DIN; and the 1500's is a DIN figure in the British brochure and in Motor Sport. Figures on different ratings are not directly comparable. The Mk IV's is lower than the Mk III's, and whether that made it a detuned car is answered on the Mk IV's page.

Motor Sport's 1971 figure for the Mk IV's torque is in pound-inches, as printed, and its note gives the pound-feet. A top speed or an acceleration time is either a magazine's measurement or a maker's claim, and the note beside it says which, where its source does. Several reach the tables only through triumphspitfire.com's table of Autocar and Road & Track results; the original tests are not among the sources read, so a figure that rests on that table alone stands as Unchecked. One quicker Mk IV time, which Motor Sport quoted in 1971 without saying it was measured, is marked as not measured.⁠source 10source 3source 9source 11source 4source 5source 1source 6source 12

An open engine bay with twin carburettors, a polished rocker cover, a battery and the radiator. — The engine bay of an early Spitfire, seen from the right with its bonnet (hood) tipped forward, in June 2012.Akela NDE, CC BY-SA 2.0 fr

Contents

Where the sources disagree

Motor Sport's data panel of 1963 gives the Spitfire 4 a slightly longer wheelbase than the other sources do. The Triumph Sports Six Club gives the Spitfire 4, Mk II and Mk III one wheelbase, and the brochures give the Mk IV and 1500 the same, so the tables lead with it and show Motor Sport's beside it. The Spitfire 4's width and height are less settled: the club's figures and Motor Sport's differ, the club's stand first, and no source read shows which is right.

Weights differ most, and few sources say what they weighed. The Italian brochure for the Mk II gives a dry weight and a weight with oil, fuel and water; the French brochure for the Mk IV gives a poids à vide, an empty weight; the British brochure calls the 1500's kerb weight approximate; and the Triumph Sports Six Club and Practical Classics give theirs without saying what they include. For the Mk IV, the club and the magazine agree and the French brochure's figure is lighter; for the Mk III, the club's figure is lighter than the magazine's, and no source read explains the difference. Each figure stands under its own label, and none is averaged.

Practical Classics prints a higher top speed for the Mk III, as Autocar's figure, than the club and Classic & Sports Car give. Autocar's own test is not among the sources read, so both stand.

The fuel tank shrank at some point: the British brochure of December 1978 gives a smaller tank than any earlier source. triumphspitfire.com dates the change to about FH28430, during the Mk IV's run, but the French brochure of November 1973 still gives the larger tank, so when it happened is not settled. That brochure also prints the Mk IV's narrower rear track, although its own text calls the track widened and Motor Sport dates the wider track to 1973.

A yellow Spitfire Mk III with its black hood up, parked by a wire fence under trees. — A yellow Spitfire Mk III with its hood (soft top) up, photographed in June 2019.JoachimKohler-HB, CC BY-SA 4.0

Contents

Wheels, fluids and electrics

The sources also give these figures an owner needs, each for the cars it names, and parts and specialists sets out the suppliers' wheel readings in full:⁠source 16source 17source 18source 19source 20source 2source 3source 9source 21source 22

Item	Figure	Cars	Source
Wheel fitment	Four studs on a 95.25 mm (3.75 in) pitch circle	Every Spitfire, judging by suppliers' lists	Rimmer Bros; Merlin Motorsport
Stud thread	3/8 in UNF	Spitfire and GT6	Pegasus Auto Racing Supplies
Tyre pressures, radial tyres	21 psi front, 26 psi rear	American Mk IV and 1500	Moss Motors
Engine oil	4 L (7 imperial pints)	Mk IV; British 1500	French Mk IV brochure, 1973; British 1500 brochure, 1978
Gearbox (transmission) oil	0.85 L (1½ imperial pints)	Mk IV; American Mk IV and 1500	French Mk IV brochure; Moss Motors
Rear axle oil	0.57 L (1 imperial pint)	Mk IV	French Mk IV brochure
Cooling system, with heater	4.5 L (about 8 imperial pints)	Mk IV; American 1500 of the 1974 model year	French Mk IV brochure; American 1500 brochure
Battery	12 volts, 40 ampere-hours	Mk IV; American 1500 of the 1974 model year	French Mk IV brochure; American 1500 brochure
Earth (ground)	Positive on the Spitfire 4 and Mk II, negative from the Mk III	Every version	The Dutch Triumph Spitfire Club; the brochures of 1973, 1974 and 1978 for negative earth
Charging	A dynamo to the Mk III, an alternator from the Mk IV	Every version	The Dutch club; Classic & Sports Car
Firing order	1-3-4-2, No. 1 at the front	American Mk IV and 1500	Moss Motors

Close-up of a chrome wire wheel with an octagonal knock-off nut stamped UNDO, on a green car. — A wire wheel on a dark green Spitfire at Chaponost, France, in July 2020, held by an octagonal knock-off nut stamped UNDO with an arrow.Romainbehar, CC0

Contents

Production

Sources for Production, by version

Price new: Spitfire 4: Several figures in print.Standard-Triumph, "New Triumph Spitfire" (Standard-Triumph advertisement), Motor Sport, Nov 1962⁠source 23; Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963⁠source 10; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; Graham Robson, "One Design, Many Derivatives", Moss Motoring, 26 Oct 2022⁠source 24; Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 25; Classic Car Africa, "The Wallflower"⁠source 26; Mk IV: Several figures in print.Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971⁠source 5; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; 1500: Several figures in print.Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠source 6; British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190⁠source 27; Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 28

Production, by version
Item	Spitfire 4	Mk II	Mk III	Mk IV	1500
Price new	£729 15s 3d Price new, Spitfire 4 Several figures in print. £729 15s 3dOne good source: Standard-Triumph, "New Triumph Spitfire" (Standard-Triumph advertisement), Motor Sport, Nov 1962, incl. purchase tax, launch, Oct–Nov 1962⁠source 23 £640 19s 7dOne good source: Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963, incl. purchase tax, Apr 1963 (after a purchase-tax cut); £654 5s 5d with heater⁠source 10 £530Not yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023, basic, before purchase tax⁠source 15 $2,199One good source: Graham Robson, "One Design, Many Derivatives", Moss Motoring, 26 Oct 2022, USA, 1963⁠source 24 8,790 DMNot yet confirmed: Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, West Germany, launch, early 1963⁠source 25 1,530 ZAROne good source: Classic Car Africa, "The Wallflower", South Africa, Aug 1963 launch⁠source 26	Not in the sources read	Not in the sources read	£961 17s 6d Price new, Mk IV Several figures in print. £961 17s 6dOne good source: Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971, incl. purchase tax, basic model, Jan 1971⁠source 5 £985One good source: Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26), "cost when new" (tax-paid)⁠source 1 £735Not yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023, basic, before purchase tax⁠source 15	£1,681 Price new, 1500 Several figures in print. £1,681One good source: Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975, as tested, with overdrive, option pack and laminated screen, Mar 1975⁠source 6 £4,697One good source: British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190, price new of the last car, 1980 (museum figure; basis not stated)⁠source 27 £3,631Not yet confirmed: Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, UK list price, 1980 model year, citing Robson 1982⁠source 28

Contents

Engine

Sources for Engine, by version

Capacity: Spitfire 4: Good sources agree.Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963⁠source 10; Canley Classics, "Engine Number Identification Chart"⁠source 29; Triumph Spitfire Club (Netherlands), "Spitfire modellen", "Aankoop informatie", "Clubinfo", home⁠source 21; Mk II: Good sources agree.Engine prefix FC. Canley Classics, "Engine Number Identification Chart"⁠source 29; Triumph Spitfire Club (Netherlands), "Spitfire modellen", "Aankoop informatie", "Clubinfo", home⁠source 21; Classic & Sports Car, A–Z of classics: Triumph Spitfire I, II, III, MkIV, 1500⁠source 14; Mk III: Good sources agree.Mike Cotton ("M.L.C."), "Triumph Spitfire to Monaco", Motor Sport, Jun 1967⁠source 4; Canley Classics, "Engine Number Identification Chart"⁠source 29; Triumph Spitfire Club (Netherlands), "Spitfire modellen", "Aankoop informatie", "Clubinfo", home⁠source 21; Mk IV: Good sources agree.Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971⁠source 5; Canley Classics, "Engine Number Identification Chart"⁠source 29; Triumph Spitfire Club (Netherlands), "Spitfire modellen", "Aankoop informatie", "Clubinfo", home⁠source 21; 1500: Good sources agree.91 cu in. BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3; Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠source 6; Canley Classics, "Engine Number Identification Chart"⁠source 29; Triumph Spitfire Club (Netherlands), "Spitfire modellen", "Aankoop informatie", "Clubinfo", home⁠source 21; British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190⁠source 27
Bore × stroke: Spitfire 4: One good source.Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963⁠source 10; Mk II: One good source.Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11; Mk III: One good source.The same 1,296 cc engine, from the Mk IV road test. Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971⁠source 5; Mk IV: Good sources agree.Three main bearings. Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971⁠source 5; British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919⁠source 2; 1500: Good sources agree.2.9 × 3.44 in. BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3; Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠source 6
Compression ratio: Spitfire 4: Several figures in print.Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963⁠source 10; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; Mk II: Several figures in print.Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; Mk III: Several figures in print.triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 25; Mk IV: Good sources agree.97-octane fuel. Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971⁠source 5; British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919⁠source 2; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; 1500: One good source.UK/Europe. BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15
Carburettors: Spitfire 4: Several figures in print.Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963⁠source 10; Classic Car Africa, "The Wallflower"⁠source 26; Mk II: One good source.Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11; Mk III: One good source.Non-US. Mike Cotton ("M.L.C."), "Triumph Spitfire to Monaco", Motor Sport, Jun 1967⁠source 4; Mk IV: One good source.Non-US. Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971⁠source 5; 1500: Several figures in print.BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3; Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠source 6

Engine, by version
Item	Spitfire 4	Mk II	Mk III	Mk IV	1500
Capacity	1,147 cc	1,147 cc	1,296 cc	1,296 cc	1,493 cc
Bore × stroke	69.3 × 76 mm	69.3 × 76 mm	73.7 × 76 mm	73.7 × 76 mm	73.7 × 87.5 mm
Compression ratio	9.0:1 Compression ratio, Spitfire 4 Several figures in print. 9.0:1One good source: Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963, UK, high compression⁠source 10; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023, FC high-compression (HE) engines⁠source 15 7.0:1Not yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023, FC low-compression (LE) engines⁠source 15	9:1 Compression ratio, Mk II Several figures in print. 9:1One good source: Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023, FC high-compression (HE) engines⁠source 15 7.0:1Not yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023, FC low-compression (LE) engines⁠source 15	9.0:1 Compression ratio, Mk III Several figures in print. 9.0:1Not yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023, high compression (HE)⁠source 15; Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 25 7.5:1Not yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023, low compression (LE)⁠source 15	9:1	9.0:1
Carburettors	twin SU HS2, side-draught Carburettors, Spitfire 4 Several figures in print. twin SU HS2, side-draughtOne good source: Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963⁠source 10 twin 1¼ in SUOne good source: Classic Car Africa, "The Wallflower", South African cars⁠source 26	twin SU	twin SU HS2	twin SU HS2	twin SU HS4, side-draught, emission controlled Carburettors, 1500 Several figures in print. twin SU HS4, side-draught, emission controlledGood sources agree: BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D, UK⁠source 3 twin SU HS4Good sources agree: Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975, UK⁠source 6

Contents

Performance

Sources for Performance, by version

Power: Spitfire 4: Several figures in print.Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963⁠source 10; Classic & Sports Car, A–Z of classics: Triumph Spitfire I, II, III, MkIV, 1500⁠source 14; Malcolm McKay, "Triumph Spitfire buyer's guide: what to pay and what to look for", Classic & Sports Car, 10 May 2019⁠source 22; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000⁠source 13; Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 25; Mk II: Good sources agree.At 6,000 rpm; rating not stated. Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Classic & Sports Car, A–Z of classics: Triumph Spitfire I, II, III, MkIV, 1500⁠source 14; Mike Cotton ("M.L.C."), "Triumph Spitfire to Monaco", Motor Sport, Jun 1967⁠source 4; Classic Car Africa, "The Wallflower"⁠source 26; Mk III: Good sources agree.Gross ("rather a gross figure"), at 6,000 rpm. Mike Cotton ("M.L.C."), "Triumph Spitfire to Monaco", Motor Sport, Jun 1967⁠source 4; Classic & Sports Car, A–Z of classics: Triumph Spitfire I, II, III, MkIV, 1500⁠source 14; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000⁠source 13; Classic Car Africa, "The Wallflower"⁠source 26; Mk IV: Several figures in print.Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971⁠source 5; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919⁠source 2; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000⁠source 13; Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 25; Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠source 6; 1500: Good sources agree.DIN 70020 (53 kW), at 5,500 rpm; UK. BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3; Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠source 6; British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190⁠source 27
Torque: Spitfire 4: Good sources agree.At 3,500 rpm. Malcolm McKay, "Triumph Spitfire buyer's guide: what to pay and what to look for", Classic & Sports Car, 10 May 2019⁠source 22; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000⁠source 13; Mk II: Several figures in print.Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11; Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 25; Mk III: Good sources agree.At 4,000 rpm. Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000⁠source 13; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Classic Car Africa, "The Wallflower"⁠source 26; Mk IV: Several figures in print.Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971⁠source 5; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000⁠source 13; Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠source 6; 1500: Good sources agree.DIN (111 Nm), at 3,000 rpm; UK. BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3; Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠source 6
Torque peak: Spitfire 4: One good source.Torque peak. Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963⁠source 10; Mk III: Not yet confirmed.Torque peak. Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 28; Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 25
Top speed: Spitfire 4: Several figures in print.Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963⁠source 10; Standard-Triumph, "New Triumph Spitfire" (Standard-Triumph advertisement), Motor Sport, Nov 1962⁠source 23; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Mk II: Good sources disagree.Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11; Classic Car Africa, "The Wallflower"⁠source 26; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 28; Malcolm McKay, "Triumph Spitfire buyer's guide: what to pay and what to look for", Classic & Sports Car, 10 May 2019⁠source 22; triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023⁠source 12; Mk III: Several figures in print.Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Classic & Sports Car, A–Z of classics: Triumph Spitfire I, II, III, MkIV, 1500⁠source 14; Mike Cotton ("M.L.C."), "Triumph Spitfire to Monaco", Motor Sport, Jun 1967⁠source 4; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000⁠source 13; Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 25; Classic Car Africa, "The Wallflower"⁠source 26; Mk IV: Several figures in print.British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919⁠source 2; Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971⁠source 5; Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠source 6; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023⁠source 12; 1500: Several figures in print.BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3; Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠source 6; triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023⁠source 12; Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 25; British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190⁠source 27
0–60 mph: Spitfire 4: Several figures in print.Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963⁠source 10; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023⁠source 12; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000⁠source 13; Mk II: Several figures in print.Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11; triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023⁠source 12; Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 28; Malcolm McKay, "Triumph Spitfire buyer's guide: what to pay and what to look for", Classic & Sports Car, 10 May 2019⁠source 22; Mk III: Several figures in print.Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000⁠source 13; triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023⁠source 12; Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 28; Mk IV: Several figures in print.Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000⁠source 13; Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971⁠source 5; Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠source 6; triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023⁠source 12; Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 28; 1500: Several figures in print.Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000⁠source 13; triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023⁠source 12; Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠source 6
Standing start: Spitfire 4: Several figures in print.Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963⁠source 10; Standard-Triumph, "New Triumph Spitfire" (Standard-Triumph advertisement), Motor Sport, Nov 1962⁠source 23; Mk II: One good source.Standing ¼ mile. Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11
Red line: 1500: One good source.Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠source 6

Performance, by version
Item	Spitfire 4	Mk II	Mk III	Mk IV	1500
Power	63 bhp Power, Spitfire 4 Several figures in print. 63 bhpGood sources agree: Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963, net, at 5,750 rpm; maker's figure⁠source 10; Classic & Sports Car, A–Z of classics: Triumph Spitfire I, II, III, MkIV, 1500, at 5,750 rpm⁠source 14; Malcolm McKay, "Triumph Spitfire buyer's guide: what to pay and what to look for", Classic & Sports Car, 10 May 2019, at 5,750 rpm⁠source 22; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000, net, at 5,750 rpm⁠source 13 60 PSNot yet confirmed: Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, German advert, Feb 1963 (via Seeliger)⁠source 25	67 bhp	75 bhp	63 bhp Power, Mk IV Several figures in print. 63 bhpGood sources agree: Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971, net, at 6,000 rpm; UK 1970–71⁠source 5; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000, net/DIN, at 6,000 rpm⁠source 13 63 cvGood sources agree: British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919, at 6,000 rpm⁠source 2; Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, at 6,000 rpm⁠source 25 61 bhpNot yet confirmed: Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975, about 61 bhp DIN for late Mk IVs, implied by the 1500's "increased by 10 b.h.p. DIN to 71" (our inference)⁠source 6	71 bhp
Torque	67 lb ft	67 lb ft Torque, Mk II Several figures in print. 67 lb ftOne good source: Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26), one figure for the Spitfire 4 and Mk II⁠source 1; Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, at 3,760 rpm⁠source 25 10 kgmNot yet confirmed: Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966, at 3,750 rpm (OCR "Ko/cm … 3780")⁠source 11	75 lb ft	837 lb in Torque, Mk IV Several figures in print. 837 lb inOne good source: Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971, about 70 lb ft, at 3,500 rpm⁠source 5 69 lb ftOne good source: Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000, at 3,500 rpm⁠source 13 68 lb ftOne good source: Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975, at 2,900 rpm, late Mk IV⁠source 6	82 lb ft
Torque peak	3,500 rpm	Not in the sources read	4,000 rpm	Not in the sources read	Not in the sources read
Top speed	93 mph Top speed, Spitfire 4 Several figures in print. 93 mphOne good source: Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963, measured, "absolute" (150 km/h)⁠source 10 92 mphOne good source: Standard-Triumph, "New Triumph Spitfire" (Standard-Triumph advertisement), Motor Sport, Nov 1962, maker's claim⁠source 23; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1	92 mph Top speed, Mk II Good sources disagree. 92 mphOne good source: Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966, brochure data table (148 km/h); factory figure⁠source 11; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26), one figure for the Spitfire 4 and Mk II⁠source 1 155–156 km/hDisputed: Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966, brochure text⁠source 11; Classic Car Africa, "The Wallflower", South African announcement⁠source 26 96 mphNot yet confirmed: Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, claimed, citing Robson⁠source 28 94 mphDisputed: Malcolm McKay, "Triumph Spitfire buyer's guide: what to pay and what to look for", Classic & Sports Car, 10 May 2019⁠source 22 92 / 90 mphNot yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023, Autocar, in 4th / in overdrive⁠source 12	95 mph Top speed, Mk III Several figures in print. 95 mphGood sources agree: Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Classic & Sports Car, A–Z of classics: Triumph Spitfire I, II, III, MkIV, 1500⁠source 14 97 mphOne good source: Mike Cotton ("M.L.C."), "Triumph Spitfire to Monaco", Motor Sport, Jun 1967, overdrive top, with hardtop (156 km/h)⁠source 4 100 mphNot yet confirmed: Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000, source not named⁠source 13; Classic Car Africa, "The Wallflower", claimed (161 km/h), South Africa⁠source 26 160 km/hNot yet confirmed: Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, works figure⁠source 25	156 km/h Top speed, Mk IV Several figures in print. 156 km/hOne good source: British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919, factory figure⁠source 2 rather less than 100 mphOne good source: Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971⁠source 5 92 or 95 mphNot yet confirmed: Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975, BL claim as reported; ambiguous⁠source 6 90 mphOne good source: Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1 90 / 87 mphNot yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023, Autocar, in 4th / in overdrive⁠source 12	100 mph Top speed, 1500 Several figures in print. 100 mphGood sources agree: BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D, Triumph claim⁠source 3; Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975, Triumph claim⁠source 6; Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, works figure⁠source 25; British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190, the last car (161 km/h)⁠source 27 103 mphOne good source: Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975, measured, overdrive top (166 km/h)⁠source 6 100 mean / 102 best (mph)Not yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023, Autocar, Mar 1975⁠source 12
0–60 mph	15.6 s 0–60 mph, Spitfire 4 Several figures in print. 15.6 sOne good source: Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963, measured, mean of runs, two-up; best 15.4⁠source 10 15.5 sOne good source: Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023, Road & Track, Apr 1963⁠source 12 17.3 sNot yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023, Autocar (date unknown)⁠source 12; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000, source not named; the time triumphspitfire.com credits to Autocar⁠source 13	15.5 s 0–60 mph, Mk II Several figures in print. 15.5 sOne good source: Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966, factory figure⁠source 11; triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023, Autocar⁠source 12 14 sNot yet confirmed: Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966, 0–96 km/h, brochure text (OCR)⁠source 11; Malcolm McKay, "Triumph Spitfire buyer's guide: what to pay and what to look for", Classic & Sports Car, 10 May 2019⁠source 22 15 sNot yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023, Road & Track, Jun 1965⁠source 12 14.8 sNot yet confirmed: Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, citing Robson⁠source 28	14.5 s 0–60 mph, Mk III Several figures in print. 14.5 sGood sources agree: Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000, source not named; the time triumphspitfire.com credits to Autocar⁠source 13; triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023, Autocar⁠source 12 13.6 sNot yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023, Road & Track, Sep 1967⁠source 12 13.4 sNot yet confirmed: Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, citing Robson⁠source 28	16.2 s 0–60 mph, Mk IV Several figures in print. 16.2 sGood sources agree: Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000⁠source 13 12.5 sNot yet confirmed: Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971, "in standard trim"; not a measured result⁠source 5 14.5 sOne good source: Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975, BL figure⁠source 6 16.3 sNot yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023, Autocar⁠source 12 15.8 sNot yet confirmed: Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, citing Robson⁠source 28	13.2 s 0–60 mph, 1500 Several figures in print. 13.2 sGood sources agree: Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26), Autocar, Mar 1975⁠source 1; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000, source not named; the time triumphspitfire.com credits to Autocar, Mar 1975⁠source 13; triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023, Autocar, Mar 1975⁠source 12 11.3 sOne good source: Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975, BL figure⁠source 6
Standing start	19.55 s Standing start, Spitfire 4 Several figures in print. 19.55 sGood sources agree: Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963, standing ¼ mile, measured mean; best 19.5⁠source 10 19.5 sGood sources agree: Standard-Triumph, "New Triumph Spitfire" (Standard-Triumph advertisement), Motor Sport, Nov 1962, standing ¼ mile, maker's claim⁠source 23	19.5 s	Not in the sources read	Not in the sources read	Not in the sources read
Red line	Not in the sources read	Not in the sources read	Not in the sources read	Not in the sources read	6,000 rpm

Contents

Running gear

Sources for Running gear, by version

Steering: Spitfire 4: One good source.Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963⁠source 10; Mk IV: One good source.Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971⁠source 5; 1500: One good source.UK 1979. BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3
Gears: Spitfire 4: One good source.4-speed, synchromesh on 2nd–4th. Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963⁠source 10; Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 25; Mk II: Good sources agree.4-speed, synchromesh on 2nd–4th. Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11; Mike Cotton ("M.L.C."), "Triumph Spitfire to Monaco", Motor Sport, Jun 1967⁠source 4; Mk III: One good source.4-speed, no synchromesh on 1st. Mike Cotton ("M.L.C."), "Triumph Spitfire to Monaco", Motor Sport, Jun 1967⁠source 4
Overdrive: Spitfire 4: Good sources agree.Optional from Oct 1963 (1964 model year). Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Classic & Sports Car, A–Z of classics: Triumph Spitfire I, II, III, MkIV, 1500⁠source 14; Mk II: One good source.Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; Mk III: One good source.Mike Cotton ("M.L.C."), "Triumph Spitfire to Monaco", Motor Sport, Jun 1967⁠source 4; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; Mk IV: One good source.Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971⁠source 5; 1500: Several figures in print.Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠source 6; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15
Front brakes: Spitfire 4: Several figures in print.Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963⁠source 10; Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19⁠source 30; Mk II: Several figures in print.Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11; Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19⁠source 30; Mk III: Several figures in print.Mike Cotton ("M.L.C."), "Triumph Spitfire to Monaco", Motor Sport, Jun 1967⁠source 4; Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19⁠source 30; Classic & Sports Car, A–Z of classics: Triumph Spitfire I, II, III, MkIV, 1500⁠source 14; Mk IV: Several figures in print.British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919⁠source 2; Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19⁠source 30; 1500: Several figures in print.BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3; Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19⁠source 30
Rear brakes: Spitfire 4: One good source.All models. Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19⁠source 30; Mk II: Several figures in print.Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11; Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19⁠source 30; Mk III: One good source.All models. Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19⁠source 30; Mk IV: Several figures in print.British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919⁠source 2; Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19⁠source 30; 1500: Several figures in print.BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3; Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19⁠source 30
Tyres: Spitfire 4: Several figures in print.Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963⁠source 10; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19⁠source 30; Mk II: One good source.Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; Mk III: Not yet confirmed.triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; Mk IV: Several figures in print.Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971⁠source 5; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919⁠source 2; 1500: Several figures in print.BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3; Moss Motors, "Car Specifications – Triumph Spitfire Mk IV 1971–1974"; "…Spitfire 1500 (1975–1980)"⁠source 20; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15
Wheels: Spitfire 4: Several figures in print.Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19⁠source 30; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; Mk II: Several figures in print.Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19⁠source 30; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; Mk III: Several figures in print.Vintage Triumph Register, "Spitfire" (production history, production dates and numbers, buyer's guide tabs)⁠source 7; Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19⁠source 30; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; Mk IV: Several figures in print.British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919⁠source 2; Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19⁠source 30; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000⁠source 13; 1500: Several figures in print.BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15
Clutch: Spitfire 4: Not yet confirmed.triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; Mk II: Several figures in print.Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11; Classic Car Africa, "The Wallflower"⁠source 26; Mk III: Good sources agree.Mike Cotton ("M.L.C."), "Triumph Spitfire to Monaco", Motor Sport, Jun 1967⁠source 4; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; 1500: Several figures in print.BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15

Running gear, by version
Item	Spitfire 4	Mk II	Mk III	Mk IV	1500
Steering	rack and pinion, 3¾ turns lock to lock (Alford & Alder)	Not in the sources read	Not in the sources read	3.7 turns lock to lock, 15 in three-spoke wheel	rack and pinion, 3.75 turns, 13.5 in three-spoke padded wheel
Gears	4	4	4	Not in the sources read	Not in the sources read
Overdrive	Laycock, on 3rd and top	Laycock, optional	Laycock D-type, on 3rd and top, optional	on 3rd (4.34:1 overall) and top (3.12:1 overall), D-type, optional	Laycock J-type, on 3rd and 4th Overdrive, 1500 Several figures in print. Laycock J-type, on 3rd and 4thOne good source: Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975, optional⁠source 6 Laycock J-type, 0.797:1, on 3rd and 4thNot yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15
Front brakes	9 in Girling discs Front brakes, Spitfire 4 Several figures in print. 9 in Girling discsGood sources agree: Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963⁠source 10 9 in (229 mm) discsGood sources agree: Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19, all models⁠source 30	9 in discs Front brakes, Mk II Several figures in print. 9 in discsGood sources agree: Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11 9 in (229 mm) discsGood sources agree: Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19, all models⁠source 30	discs Front brakes, Mk III Several figures in print. discsGood sources agree: Mike Cotton ("M.L.C."), "Triumph Spitfire to Monaco", Motor Sport, Jun 1967, larger calipers than the Mk II's⁠source 4; Classic & Sports Car, A–Z of classics: Triumph Spitfire I, II, III, MkIV, 1500, larger calipers than the Mk II's⁠source 14 9 in (229 mm) discsGood sources agree: Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19, all models⁠source 30	228 mm (9 in) discs Front brakes, Mk IV Several figures in print. 228 mm (9 in) discsGood sources agree: British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919⁠source 2 9 in (229 mm) discsGood sources agree: Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19, all models⁠source 30	9 in (229 mm) discs, dual circuit Front brakes, 1500 Several figures in print. 9 in (229 mm) discs, dual circuitGood sources agree: BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3 9 in (229 mm) discsGood sources agree: Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19, all models⁠source 30
Rear brakes	7 in (178 mm) drums	7 × 1¼ in drums Rear brakes, Mk II Several figures in print. 7 × 1¼ in drumsGood sources agree: Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11 7 in (178 mm) drumsGood sources agree: Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19, all models⁠source 30	7 in (178 mm) drums	7 × 1¼ in (178 × 32 mm) drums Rear brakes, Mk IV Several figures in print. 7 × 1¼ in (178 × 32 mm) drumsGood sources agree: British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919⁠source 2 7 in (178 mm) drumsGood sources agree: Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19, all models⁠source 30	7 in (178 mm) drums, leading and trailing Rear brakes, 1500 Several figures in print. 7 in (178 mm) drums, leading and trailingGood sources agree: BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3 7 in (178 mm) drumsGood sources agree: Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19, all models⁠source 30
Tyres	5.20-13 Dunlop C41, tubeless Tyres, Spitfire 4 Several figures in print. 5.20-13 Dunlop C41, tubelessOne good source: Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963, test car⁠source 10 5.20-13Not yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15 620 × 13 cross-ply "original"Not yet confirmed: Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19⁠source 30	5.20 × 13 in	5.20-13 cross-ply; 145-13 radial option	5.20-13 cross-ply standard; Dunlop SP68 radials optional Tyres, Mk IV Several figures in print. 5.20-13 cross-ply standard; Dunlop SP68 radials optionalOne good source: Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971, 1971⁠source 5 5.20-13 cross-ply standard; radials optionalNot yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023, 1971⁠source 15 145 SR 13 radialOne good source: British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919, France 1973 (standard by then)⁠source 2	155 SR 13 radial Tyres, 1500 Several figures in print. 155 SR 13 radialGood sources agree: BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3 155 SR 13Good sources agree: Moss Motors, "Car Specifications – Triumph Spitfire Mk IV 1971–1974"; "…Spitfire 1500 (1975–1980)"⁠source 20; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15
Wheels	13 × 3½ in Wheels, Spitfire 4 Several figures in print. 13 × 3½ inOne good source: Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19, Mk I to early Mk III, UK⁠source 30 3.5 × 13 steel discNot yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15 13 × 4½ J wire wheelsOne good source: Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19, wire wheels (option), Mk I–IV⁠source 30	13 × 3½ in Wheels, Mk II Several figures in print. 13 × 3½ inOne good source: Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19, Mk I to early Mk III, UK⁠source 30 3.5 × 13 steel discNot yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15 13 × 4½ J wire wheelsOne good source: Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19, wire wheels (option), Mk I–IV⁠source 30	3.5J × 13 to FD75000; 4.5J × 13 after Wheels, Mk III Several figures in print. 3.5J × 13 to FD75000; 4.5J × 13 afterOne good source: Vintage Triumph Register, "Spitfire" (production history, production dates and numbers, buyer's guide tabs), 1970 model year "4.5 in. solid disks … 1 in. wider"⁠source 7; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15 13 × 3½ inOne good source: Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19, Mk I to early Mk III, UK⁠source 30 13 × 4½ J wire wheelsOne good source: Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19, wire wheels (option), Mk I–IV⁠source 30	13 × 4½ J Wheels, Mk IV Several figures in print. 13 × 4½ JOne good source: British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919⁠source 2; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000⁠source 13 13 × 4½ J wire wheelsOne good source: Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19, wire wheels (option), Mk I–IV⁠source 30	pressed steel disc Wheels, 1500 Several figures in print. pressed steel discOne good source: BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3 13 × 4.5J to 1979; 13 × 5J from FH130000 (1979–80)Not yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15
Clutch	6.25 in coil-spring; 6.5 in from FC17136	single dry plate, hydraulic, diaphragm spring, 161 mm Clutch, Mk II Several figures in print. single dry plate, hydraulic, diaphragm spring, 161 mmOne good source: Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11 single dry plate, diaphragm springOne good source: Classic Car Africa, "The Wallflower", South Africa⁠source 26	diaphragm spring	Not in the sources read	7.25 in (184 mm) diaphragm Clutch, 1500 Several figures in print. 7.25 in (184 mm) diaphragmOne good source: BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3 7.25 in diaphragmNot yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15

Contents

Dimensions and weight

Sources for Dimensions and weight, by version

Length: Spitfire 4: Several figures in print.Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963⁠source 10; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000⁠source 13; Mk II: One good source.Spitfire 4 / Mk II. Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Mk III: Several figures in print.Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000⁠source 13; Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 25; Mk IV: Good sources agree.Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919⁠source 2; 1500: One good source.148.8 in; UK. BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3; British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190⁠source 27
Width: Spitfire 4: Good sources disagree.Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963⁠source 10; Mk II: One good source.Spitfire 4 / Mk II. Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Mk III: Several figures in print.Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 25; Mk IV: Good sources agree.58.5 in. British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919⁠source 2; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; 1500: Several figures in print.BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190⁠source 27
Height: Spitfire 4: Good sources disagree.Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963⁠source 10; Mk II: One good source.Spitfire 4 / Mk II. Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Mk III: Several figures in print.Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 25; Mk IV: Several figures in print.British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919⁠source 2; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; 1500: Several figures in print.BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190⁠source 27
Kerb weight: Spitfire 4: Good sources disagree.Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000⁠source 13; Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963⁠source 10; Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11; Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 28; Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 25; Mk II: Several figures in print.Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 25; Mk III: Good sources disagree.Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000⁠source 13; Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 25; Mk IV: Good sources disagree.Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000⁠source 13; British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919⁠source 2; Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 28; 1500: Several figures in print.BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000⁠source 13; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 28
Wheelbase: Spitfire 4: Several figures in print.Classic Car Africa, "The Wallflower"⁠source 26; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963⁠source 10; Mk II: One good source.83 in. Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Mk III: One good source.83 in. Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Mk IV: Good sources agree.83 in. British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919⁠source 2; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; 1500: Good sources agree.83 in. BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15
Ground clearance: Spitfire 4: Not yet confirmed.Laden; 5 in. Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 25; Mk II: One good source.Laden. Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11; Mk IV: Good sources agree.Laden; 5 in. British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919⁠source 2; Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971⁠source 5; 1500: One good source.Laden; 4.6 in; UK. BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15
Fuel tank: Spitfire 4: Several figures in print.Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963⁠source 10; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; Mk II: Several figures in print.Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; Mk IV: Several figures in print.British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919⁠source 2; Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971⁠source 5; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15; 1500: Several figures in print.BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠source 3; triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15
Dry weight: Mk II: One good source.Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11

Dimensions and weight, by version
Item	Spitfire 4	Mk II	Mk III	Mk IV	1500
Length	3,689 mm Length, Spitfire 4 Several figures in print. 3,689 mmGood sources agree: Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963, 12 ft 1¼ in, 1963⁠source 10 3,683 mmGood sources agree: Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26), Spitfire 4 / Mk II⁠source 1 12 ft 1 in / 3.7 mOne good source: Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000, Spitfire 4 and Mk III⁠source 13	3,683 mm	3,734 mm Length, Mk III Several figures in print. 3,734 mmOne good source: Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1 12 ft 1 in / 3.7 mOne good source: Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000, Spitfire 4 and Mk III⁠source 13 3,730 mmNot yet confirmed: Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 25	3,786 mm	378 cm
Width	1,448 mm Width, Spitfire 4 Good sources disagree. 1,448 mmDisputed: Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26), Spitfire 4 / Mk II⁠source 1 1,473 mmDisputed: Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963, 4 ft 10 in⁠source 10	1,448 mm	1,448 mm Width, Mk III Several figures in print. 1,448 mmOne good source: Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1 1,450 mmNot yet confirmed: Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 25	1,488 mm	148.8 cm Width, 1500 Several figures in print. 148.8 cmGood sources agree: BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D, 58.5 in⁠source 3; British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190, the last car (1980)⁠source 27 58.5 inNot yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15
Height	1,207 mm Height, Spitfire 4 Good sources disagree. 1,207 mmDisputed: Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26), Spitfire 4 / Mk II⁠source 1 1,194 mmDisputed: Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963, hood up, unladen; 3 ft 11 in⁠source 10	1,207 mm	1,207 mm Height, Mk III Several figures in print. 1,207 mmOne good source: Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1 1,205 mmNot yet confirmed: Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 25	1,205 mm Height, Mk IV Several figures in print. 1,205 mmOne good source: British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919, hood up⁠source 2 1,125 mmGood sources agree: British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919, to the top of the windscreen⁠source 2; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26), to the top of the windscreen⁠source 1	116.2 cm Height, 1500 Several figures in print. 116.2 cmOne good source: BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D, hood up; 45.8 in; UK⁠source 3 1,125 to windscreen top; 1,162 hood up (mm)Not yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023⁠source 15 1,163 mmOne good source: British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190, the last car (1980)⁠source 27
Kerb weight	711 kg Kerb weight, Spitfire 4 Good sources disagree. 711 kgDisputed: Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26), basis unstated; Spitfire 4 / Mk II page⁠source 1; Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, unladen, UK spec⁠source 28 1,589 lbDisputed: Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000, 721 kg⁠source 13 14.25 cwtDisputed: Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963, 724 kg⁠source 10 735 kgDisputed: Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966, with oil, fuel and water; Mk II brochure (same body)⁠source 11 736 kgNot yet confirmed: Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, Seeliger⁠source 25	735 kg Kerb weight, Mk II Several figures in print. 735 kgOne good source: Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966, with oil, fuel and water⁠source 11 711 kgOne good source: Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26), basis unstated; Spitfire 4 / Mk II page⁠source 1 736 kgNot yet confirmed: Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 25	749 kg Kerb weight, Mk III Good sources disagree. 749 kgDisputed: Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1 1,736 lbDisputed: Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000, 787 kg⁠source 13 748 kgNot yet confirmed: Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠source 25	779 kg Kerb weight, Mk IV Good sources disagree. 779 kgDisputed: Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000, 779 kg⁠source 13; Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, citing Robson⁠source 28 734 kgDisputed: British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919, unladen⁠source 2	794 kg Kerb weight, 1500 Several figures in print. 794 kgGood sources agree: BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D, approx., UK; 1,750 lb⁠source 3; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠source 1 1,780 lbOne good source: Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000, 807 kg⁠source 13 792 basic / 841 with extras (kg)Not yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023, non-US⁠source 15 1,875 lbNot yet confirmed: Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, 1980, "last and heaviest", citing Robson⁠source 28
Wheelbase	211 cm Wheelbase, Spitfire 4 Several figures in print. 211 cmGood sources agree: Classic Car Africa, "The Wallflower"⁠source 26; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26), 83 in⁠source 1 2,121 mmNot yet confirmed: Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963, 6 ft 11½ in⁠source 10	2,108 mm	2,108 mm	2,110 mm	211 cm
Ground clearance	125 mm	125 mm	Not in the sources read	127 mm	11.8 cm
Fuel tank	8 gal Fuel tank, Spitfire 4 Several figures in print. 8 galOne good source: Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963, Imperial (36.4 L), 1963⁠source 10 8.25 galNot yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023, imperial gallons; Mk I/II⁠source 15	37.6 L Fuel tank, Mk II Several figures in print. 37.6 LOne good source: Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966⁠source 11 8.25 galNot yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023, imperial gallons; Mk I/II⁠source 15	Not in the sources read	37.6 L Fuel tank, Mk IV Several figures in print. 37.6 LOne good source: British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919, France, Nov 1973⁠source 2 8.5 galOne good source: Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971, Imperial (38.6 L), Jan 1971 test car⁠source 5 8.25 → 7.25 galNot yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023, imperial gallons; cut from FH28430 (contradicted by the 1973 French brochure)⁠source 15	33 L Fuel tank, 1500 Several figures in print. 33 LOne good source: BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D, 7.25 imperial gallons; UK 1978–79⁠source 3 37.6 LNot yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023, (9.9 US gal)⁠source 15
Dry weight	Not in the sources read	700 kg	Not in the sources read	Not in the sources read	Not in the sources read

Contents

Sources

Sources are given as plain text; their addresses are on the sources page.

Primarymade at the time, by the maker or by people who were there
Referenceserious later work: clubs, specialists, magazines, books
Uncheckedencyclopaedias and enthusiast sites: cited beside a good source, named in the sentence, or marked Unchecked

Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26), Spitfire 4/Mark II and Mark III pages, wheelbase; Mark IV page; quantities, Spitfire 4/Mark II and 1500 pages; Mark IV page; Spitfire 4/Mark II, Mark III and Mark IV pages; model_ID=25 (Mark IV page), "Cost when new"; model_ID=24 (Spitfire 4/Mark II page); model_ID=23 (Mark III page); model_ID=25 (Mark IV page) ("SAE to DIN"); model_ID=25 (Mark IV page); model_ID=26 (1500 page); model_ID=24 (Spitfire 4/Mark II page), "Overdrive became an option from October '63"; model_ID=24, "Dimensions"; model_ID=23, "Dimensions"; model_ID=25, "Dimensions"; model_ID=24, "Weight"; model_ID=23, "Weight"; model_ID=25, "Weight"; model_ID=26, "Weight"; model_ID=26, "Dimensions". Reference
British Leyland (France), Triumph Spitfire Mk4 (sales brochure), France, 11/1973, T.919, "Empattement"; "Dimensions"; "Capacités"; "Voie arrière"; description; "Capacités"; electrical equipment; Nov 1973 brochure, "Moteur"; Nov 1973 brochure, "Performances"; Nov 1973 brochure, "Freins"; Nov 1973 brochure, "Pneus"; Nov 1973 brochure, "Roues"; Nov 1973 brochure, diagram "B"; Nov 1973 brochure, diagram; Nov 1973 brochure, diagram "A"; Nov 1973 brochure, "Dimensions"; Nov 1973 brochure, "Empattement"; Nov 1973 brochure, "Capacités". Primary
BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D, dimensions table; "Specifications"; dimensions table; "Specifications"; "Specifications": oil capacity, electrical system; Dec 1978 brochure, Specifications; Dec 1978 brochure, dimensions table "Z"; Dec 1978 brochure, dimensions table; Dec 1978 brochure, dimensions table "X"; Dec 1978 brochure, dimensions table "W". Primary
Mike Cotton ("M.L.C."), "Triumph Spitfire to Monaco", Motor Sport, Jun 1967, p. 26, the engine; p. 26; Jun 1967 p. 26, text; Jun 1967 p. 26, final paragraph. Primary
Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971, p. 59, engine and body; p. 59, engine and performance; p. 59, fuel tank; Jan 1971 p. 59, final paragraph; Jan 1971 p. 59, engine paragraph; Jan 1971 p. 59, consumption paragraph; Jan 1971 p. 59, controls paragraph; Jan 1971 p. 59, engine paragraph ("63 (net) b.h.p."); Jan 1971 p. 59. Primary
Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975, p. 25, bore and stroke; p. 25, power; p. 25, the rear track; Mar 1975 p. 25, final paragraph; Mar 1975 p. 25, text; Mar 1975 p. 25, para 4. Primary
Vintage Triumph Register, "Spitfire" (production history, production dates and numbers, buyer's guide tabs), 1969 federal dashboard; production dates and numbers: 1969–70, 1971–1972, 1973–1974; Spitfire page, 1970 notes. Reference
Canley Classics, "Production Figures", Spitfire 4 and Spitfire 1500 rows. Reference
British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973, cover and p. USA-5; p. USA-5; p. USA-5, "Electrical". Primary
Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Sports cars under £700: the £641 Triumph Spitfire 4", with data panel "The Triumph Spitfire 4", Motor Sport, Apr 1963, data panel; engine; data panel, "Dimensions"; fuel tank; Apr 1963 pp. 20, 26 (data panel); Apr 1963 test text; Apr 1963, engine paragraph; Apr 1963, performance figures; Apr 1963, steering paragraph; Apr 1963, gearbox paragraph; Apr 1963, chassis paragraph; Apr 1963 data panel; Apr 1963 data panel "Dimensions". Primary
Standard-Triumph, Spitfire Mk. II (sales brochure), Italy, Ref. 352/666/IT-DUC, 1966, technical column, "Motore"; technical column, "Peso" and "Capacità"; 1966 brochure, "Motore"; 1966 brochure, "Motore" ("Rapporto di compressione 9:1"); 1966 brochure, "Prestazioni"; 1966 brochure, "Velocità massima"; 1966 brochure, text; 1966 brochure, "Accelerazione"; 1966 brochure; 1966 brochure, "Freni"; 1966 brochure, "Ruote"; 1966 brochure, "Peso"; 1966 brochure, "Dimensioni"; 1966 brochure, "Capacità". Primary
triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023, Autocar and Road & Track tables; test-results table. Unchecked
Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000, p. 83, specification table; p. 83 spec table. Reference
Classic & Sports Car, A–Z of classics: Triumph Spitfire I, II, III, MkIV, 1500, Spitfire III; A–Z entry. Reference
triumphspitfire.com ("Spitfire & GT6 Magazine and Information Warehouse"), Reference pages (group): models and options; Mk I–1500 options-and-changes logs; engine numbers; 1979–80 VINs; what year is my car; final drive; general specification data; stock tyres; wheel alignment; lubrication; tuning; fuses; paint and trim codes; side stripes; decal and badge placements; wire wheels; head swaps; substitute parts; suppliers; new owner; pre-purchase checklist; spotters guide, pages modified 2023, Mk IV options-and-changes log, FH28430; Spitfire 4 page, basic price; Mk IV page, basic price; engine page; general spec; options log; stock tyre page; Mk III change log; 1500 change log; stock tyre page; Mk I change log; Mk IV change log. Unchecked
Rimmer Bros, "Wire Wheel Bolt-on Tube Type 4.5J x 13" Silver Painted 48 Spoke – 151539WP – MWS", stud holes and P.C.D.. Reference
Merlin Motorsport, "Aluminium front hubs for Triumph Herald / Spitfire and Vitesse / GT6", PCD. Reference
Moss Motors, "Minilite Style Wheel – Bolt-On – Silver – 13" x 5.5"" (854-721), fitment, 1962–1980. Reference
Pegasus Auto Racing Supplies, "Wheel Stud – 3/8-24, Triumph Spitfire, GT6, some FF" (3546-014), thread size. Reference
Moss Motors, "Car Specifications – Triumph Spitfire Mk IV 1971–1974"; "…Spitfire 1500 (1975–1980)", Spitfire Mk IV 1971–1974 and Spitfire 1500 (1975–1980): tyre pressures, gearbox, firing order; 1500 spec page. Reference
Triumph Spitfire Club (Netherlands), "Spitfire modellen", "Aankoop informatie", "Clubinfo", home, Spitfire modellen; engine-number table, prefix FC; engine-number table, prefix FD; engine-number table, prefix FH; engine-number table, prefix FM. Reference
Malcolm McKay, "Triumph Spitfire buyer's guide: what to pay and what to look for", Classic & Sports Car, 10 May 2019, timeline, Mk IV; spec box; timeline. Reference
Standard-Triumph, "New Triumph Spitfire" (Standard-Triumph advertisement), Motor Sport, Nov 1962, Nov 1962 p. 32, "All for only £729.15.3 including p.t."; Nov 1962 p. 32, advert. Primary
Graham Robson, "One Design, Many Derivatives", Moss Motoring, 26 Oct 2022, Robson, "One design". Reference
Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, Spitfire 4 section; Datenblatt; footnote. Unchecked
Classic Car Africa, "The Wallflower", Mk I section; Mk II section; Mk III section. Reference
British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190, accession 1980-1-190, object record. Primary
Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, 1500 section; Mk III section; Mk II section; Mk IV section; infobox. Unchecked
Canley Classics, "Engine Number Identification Chart", engine chart, prefix FC; engine chart, prefix FD; engine chart, prefix FH; engine chart, prefix FM. Reference
Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19, Spitty Tips, brakes; Spitty Tips 5. Reference

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