TriumphSpitfire
An orange Spitfire with chrome wire wheels and its hood folded, in full profile on a gravel track before a tall maize field.

Triumph Spitfire 1500

The last Spitfire, built at Canley from late 1974 to August 1980: the Mk IV's body with a longer-stroke engine, which American cars had already had from the 1973 model year. Triumph called it the Spitfire 1500; owners often call it the Mk V, an unofficial name.

An orange Spitfire photographed side-on by a maize field in August 2011, a 1500 by its photographer's account; its wire wheels were never a factory option on the 1500.WORhausen, CC BY-SA 3.0

Look for the name on the bonnet (hood). From late 1974 the Spitfire carried it there and on the boot (trunk) lid in bold transfers, "Spitfire 1500", for an engine enlarged once more: the Mk IV's four-cylinder with a longer stroke. Canley built the 1500 from December 1974, in Canley Classics' table, until August 1980, when the last Spitfire left the line.

In the United States the story began earlier. When Motor Sport announced the British car in January 1975, it said:

There is nothing new about the 1500 c.c. engine, which has been fitted to American specification Spitfires for the last couple of years.

Motor Sport, January 1975

The American cars carried the Spitfire 1500 name from the 1973 model year, at first in the Mk IV's body. Outside, the 1500 hardly changed: the body was the Mk IV's, with the spoiler of the last Mk IVs under its nose.⁠1​2​3​4​5​6

What changed

Close view of a Spitfire engine with a polished rocker cover, red block, orange distributor cap and alternator.
The engine of a dark green Spitfire, a 1500 by its photographer's title, in July 2012; its polished rocker cover and ignition parts are not standard.Sunappu-shashin, CC BY-SA 4.0

Triumph found the extra capacity by lengthening the stroke and keeping the bore, which gave the engine the dimensions of the one in Triumph's own 1500 saloon (sedan). Clive Richardson, who drove the new car for Motor Sport in March 1975, could still see the Standard Eight in its ancestry, and summed up the change:

By this crude method and the fitting of bigger SUs the power output has been increased by 10 b.h.p. DIN to 71 b.h.p. DIN at the same figure of 5,500 r.p.m.

Clive Richardson, Motor Sport, March 1975

From late 1974 the MG Midget 1500 had the same engine.

With more pulling power to use, cars outside North America had a taller final drive, so the engine turned more slowly at speed: in overdrive top it covered 36.4 km/h (22.6 mph) for every 1,000 rpm, where the Mk IV covered 33.5 km/h (20.8 mph). The gearbox (transmission) was a single-rail type with a cranked lever, which carried the switch for the Laycock J-type overdrive in its knob; Classic & Sports Car's buyer's guide calls it stronger. The rest was the late Mk IV's: the wider rear track of 1973, the front spoiler of 1974, the polished wood dashboard and the reclining seats.

Contents

Mk V, 1500 or Mk IV?

Triumph's name for the car was the Spitfire 1500. It is on the car and in the titles of the British brochure of December 1978 and of Richardson's road test, and the Triumph Sports Six Club uses it too. A club magazine, TRaction, listed it in 2023 as the "Spitfire 1500 Mk IV", a name of its own.

The American cars of the 1973 and 1974 model years add one more twist. They paired the 1500's engine with the Mk IV's body and carried the 1500's name, as the Vintage Triumph Register and British Leyland's American brochure for 1974 show, while Classic & Sports Car's A–Z counts them as Mk IVs. Their commission numbers begin FM, as those of every later American 1500 did until VINs replaced them in October 1979, and so they are best described as 1500s in the Mk IV's body.⁠2​1​13​14​4​5​9

A black SPITFIRE 1500 decal on a yellow bonnet, beside the headlamp and above the chrome bumper.
The name the factory used, as a transfer on the yellow bonnet of a Spitfire 1500 photographed in August 2011.Jeremy, CC BY 2.0

Contents

How many 1500s were built?

Fact check

95,829 cars

Canley Classics, "Production Figures", Production Figures table, row "Spitfire 1500"⁠3

Classic & Sports Car, A–Z of classics: Triumph Spitfire I, II, III, MkIV, 1500, A–Z entry⁠9

Malcolm McKay, "Triumph Spitfire buyer's guide: what to pay and what to look for", Classic & Sports Car, 10 May 2019, production figures⁠8

Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, production figures, citing Robson 1982 p. 187⁠15

Triumph Spitfire Club (Netherlands), "Spitfire modellen", "Aankoop informatie", "Clubinfo", home, "Spitfire modellen" page, production figures⁠16

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, models page, "95829 cars made"⁠7

91,137 cars

Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26), model_ID=26, "Quantity"⁠13

Our reading. Canley Classics' table and Classic & Sports Car give the higher figure, and Wikipedia cites Graham Robson's 1982 book for the same figure; the Triumph Sports Six Club alone gives the lower. None of them says what it counts, so the difference is unexplained, and both stand.⁠3​9​8​15​13

Contents

The American 1500

In America the 1500 lived longest. It was sold there for eight model years, from 1973 to 1980, the first two in the Mk IV's body, and the Vintage Triumph Register lists the American cars from FM1 for the 1973 model year and from FM28001 for the 1975 model year.

They were built to American rules from the start. British Leyland's brochure for the 1974 model year gives the American car a lower compression ratio, the Mk IV's final drive and a single Zenith-Stromberg carburettor where British cars had twin SUs. That model year's cars also gained rubber overriders (bumper guards), front and rear. For the 1979 and 1980 model years they had full-width black rubber bumpers instead, as Wikipedia and triumphspitfire.com both describe them. triumphspitfire.com adds catalytic converters, on Californian cars from the 1975 model year and on every American car from the 1977 model year, and gives the Californian cars a suffix of their own, UC.

Even the power figure is labelled two ways: triumphspitfire.com calls the late American rating SAE net and Wikipedia calls it DIN. The American 1500's specification below gives the figure with both labels.

Each model year, the "1978½" cars, how to read an American commission number or VIN, and why a title may give another year are on North American Spitfires; production years takes the years one at a time.⁠4​5​7​15

A dark green Spitfire 1500 with its hood up and black rubber bumpers, parked on wet grass.
Rain on a dark green American 1500 at Kissimmee, Florida, in January 2024: the full-width black rubber bumpers of the 1979 and 1980 model years, and amber side-marker lamps.Pokemonprime, CC BY 4.0

Contents

How to spot a 1500

  1. The transfers

    "Spitfire 1500" on the bonnet and the boot lid.

  2. The wheels

    Usually silver centres on the steel wheels, by the Triumph Sports Six Club's account, where the Mk IV's were black; wire wheels were not a factory option.

  3. The front

    A chin spoiler and, on British cars, plastic-coated under-riders at the front of the chrome bumper.

  4. The cockpit

    From early 1977, TR7-type stalks on the steering column for the lights, wipers and horn, and seats faced in houndstooth cloth.

  5. The commission number

    Outside North America from about FH75001, by triumphspitfire.com's log; FM on American cars; from October 1979, a VIN beginning TF.

  6. The engine number

    It begins FM. An FP engine is a Midget 1500's: the two cars shared the engine.

  7. American bumpers

    Rubber overriders from the 1974 model year, then full black rubber bumpers for the 1979 and 1980 model years.⁠1​13​2​7​17​4​11​5​15

An orange Spitfire 1500 with its black hood up and a bonnet decal, parked before a sandstone wall.
A Spitfire 1500 by a sandstone wall in September 2014, with its bonnet transfer, chin spoiler and black under-riders.Thomas's Pics, CC BY 2.0
A dark green Spitfire 1500 with its hood folded and tan seats, on a grass show field among other cars.
A dark green Spitfire 1500 at the Aldham Old Time Rally in June 2026, showing the same spoiler and under-riders.kitmasterbloke, CC BY 4.0

Contents

Changes, 1974–80

The 1500 changed in its details, not its shape. triumphspitfire.com dates most of the changes by commission number, and the British brochure of December 1978 confirms several of them.⁠7​2​15

FromChangeRecorded by
Late 1974, about FH75001An electronic rev counter and a light in the boottriumphspitfire.com; the British brochure of 1978 lists the boot light
January 1976, about FH80000The option pack standard outside North Americatriumphspitfire.com; the British brochure of 1978 lists its items as standard
Early 1977, about FH100020TR7-type column stalks, electric screen washers and houndstooth seat facingsThe British brochure of 1978; triumphspitfire.com dates them to March; Wikipedia cites Motor of 5 March 1977
March 1977Paint codes in letters in place of numberstriumphspitfire.com; colours reads both kinds
January 1978, about FH105734A viscous-coupled cooling fan outside North Americatriumphspitfire.com
1978A laminated windscreen (windshield) as standardThe British brochure of 1978; triumphspitfire.com
January 1979, about FH130000Dual-circuit brakes with a warning lamp, and wider wheelsThe British brochure of December 1978 already lists the brakes; triumphspitfire.com dates both
October 1979VIN plates in place of commission platestriumphspitfire.com
A Spitfire cockpit from behind the seats: wood fascia, leather-rimmed wheel and black seats with houndstooth inserts.
Houndstooth seat facings, of the kind fitted from early 1977, in a Spitfire 1500 at a vintage car meeting in Ebern, Germany, in June 2019; its steering wheel and radio are later additions.Ermell, CC BY-SA 4.0

Contents

Price and options

The specification below gives the prices new that the sources record, among them Motor Sport's test car of March 1975, with its extras, and the British Motor Museum's figure for the last car.

Richardson's car had three extras: overdrive, the option pack and a laminated windscreen. The pack brought head restraints, inertia-reel seat belts, a driver's door mirror, a dipping (day/night) mirror, a centre armrest and a map light on a universal joint. By December 1978 the British brochure listed all of these as standard and overdrive as the only option. Buyers could still choose the hardtop in place of the hood (soft top) and tonneau.

The same brochure shows how much a British 1500 carried by then. Its standard equipment ran to reclining seats with adjustable head restraints, faced in houndstooth brushed nylon with vinyl sides; a walnut-veneer fascia with a padded surround; carpet from side to side; inertia-reel belts with a warning lamp to fasten them; a cigar lighter, two-tone horns, hazard and reversing lamps, door-operated courtesy lamps, a map light and a boot light; electric washers and two-speed wipers with a flick-wipe; a steering-column lock, a door mirror, a tonneau cover, the front spoiler and a rust-proofed body.

The stripe kits American dealers fitted are on hardtops and options.⁠1​7​2​18​15

A red Spitfire in the Mk IV body with its hood folded, chrome wire wheels and black bumper under-riders on a sunny show field.
A red Spitfire in the Mk IV body on wire wheels, on a show field in May 2022: nothing shown says whether it is a Mk IV, which could be ordered with them, or a 1500, which could not.Calreyn88, CC BY-SA 4.0

Contents

On the road

Richardson's car arrived running on three cylinders, with a plug lead off, and over his whole test, London traffic included, it returned 8.3 litres per 100 km (34 miles per imperial gallon). The taller gearing kept the engine quieter above 110 km/h (70 mph), and in overdrive top the car beat Triumph's own claim for its top speed.

The longer stroke had costs. Richardson found the engine harsh when it was revved hard, and the Triumph Sports Six Club says the stroke "rather blunted the engine's will to rev", though it gave much more power in the middle of the range, and "made life tougher for the crank bearings"; Classic & Sports Car's buyer's guide warns that the crankshaft wears, and the buying guide says what to listen for. Richardson also missed a brake servo and an oil-pressure gauge, found the heater lever stiff and the throttle too light, and thought the hood fitted less well than a TR6's. The handling was another matter:

This Spitfire is now very stable and predictable, that inclination for the rear wheels to touch their toes has disappeared completely; there seems to be less roll and the ride is better. The steering is delightful by any standards.

Clive Richardson, Motor Sport, March 1975

For all its age, Richardson thought the 1500 "a welcome alternative in a world of rather boring saloon cars". Autocar tested the 1500 as well. Its figures reach us through later tables and through the British brochure of 1978, which credits its performance figures to Autocar; the specification below gives them. The other period tests are on road tests.⁠1​13​8​2​19

A blue Spitfire 1500 with its hood down driving along a tree-lined country road.
A Spitfire 1500 on the move along London Road, Essex, in the London to Southend Classic Car Run of July 2015.Robert Lamb, CC BY-SA 2.0

Contents

The last 1500

Canley's Spitfires began with the Spitfire 4 in October 1962 and ended with a 1500 in August 1980. The last one off the line was yellow, Inca Yellow by triumphspitfire.com's record, and wore a hardtop. It is at Gaydon now, in the British Motor Museum's collection.⁠3​4​18​7

A bright yellow Spitfire 1500 with a matching hardtop, seen from the rear three-quarter in a museum hall.
The tail of the last 1500, with a 'Triumph Spitfire 1500' transfer on the boot lid and a matching hardtop, at the Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon, in July 2009.Mark Brown from Hampton, New Brunswick, Canada, CC BY-SA 2.0

Contents

Specification: 1500

Production

Sources for Production, 1500

Price new
Several figures in print.Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠1; British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190⁠18; Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠15
Price new£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 1975⁠1
  • £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)⁠18
  • £3,631Not yet confirmed: Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, UK list price, 1980 model year, citing Robson 1982⁠15

Engine

Sources for Engine, 1500

Capacity
Good sources agree.91 cu in. BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠2; Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠1; Canley Classics, "Engine Number Identification Chart"⁠11; Triumph Spitfire Club (Netherlands), "Spitfire modellen", "Aankoop informatie", "Clubinfo", home⁠16; British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190⁠18
Bore × stroke
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/D⁠2; Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠1
Compression ratio
One good source.UK/Europe. BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠2; 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 2023⁠7
Carburettors
Several figures in print.BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠2; Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠1
Capacity1,493 cc
Bore × stroke73.7 × 87.5 mm
Compression ratio9.0:1
Carburettorstwin 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, UK⁠2
  • twin SU HS4Good sources agree: Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975, UK⁠1

Performance

Sources for Performance, 1500

Power
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/D⁠2; Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠1; British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190⁠18
Torque
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/D⁠2; Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠1
Top speed
Several figures in print.BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠2; Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠1; triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023⁠19; Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠20; British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190⁠18
0–60 mph
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)⁠13; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000⁠17; triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023⁠19; Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠1
Red line
One good source.Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠1
Power71 bhp
Torque82 lb ft
Top speed100 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 claim⁠2; Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975, Triumph claim⁠1; Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, works figure⁠20; British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190, the last car (161 km/h)⁠18
  • 103 mphOne good source: Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975, measured, overdrive top (166 km/h)⁠1
  • 100 mean / 102 best (mph)Not yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023, Autocar, Mar 1975⁠19
0–60 mph13.2 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 1975⁠13; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000, source not named; the time triumphspitfire.com credits to Autocar, Mar 1975⁠17; triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023, Autocar, Mar 1975⁠19
  • 11.3 sOne good source: Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975, BL figure⁠1
Red line6,000 rpm

Running gear

Sources for Running gear, 1500

Steering
One good source.UK 1979. BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠2
Overdrive
Several figures in print.Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975⁠1; 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 2023⁠7
Front brakes
Several figures in print.BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠2; Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19⁠21
Rear brakes
Several figures in print.BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠2; Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19⁠21
Tyres
Several figures in print.BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠2; Moss Motors, "Car Specifications – Triumph Spitfire Mk IV 1971–1974"; "…Spitfire 1500 (1975–1980)"⁠22; 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 2023⁠7
Wheels
Several figures in print.BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠2; 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 2023⁠7
Clutch
Several figures in print.BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠2; 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 2023⁠7
Steeringrack and pinion, 3.75 turns, 13.5 in three-spoke padded wheel
OverdriveLaycock 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, optional⁠1
  • 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 2023⁠7
Front brakes9 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/D⁠2
  • 9 in (229 mm) discsGood sources agree: Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19, all models⁠21
Rear brakes7 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/D⁠2
  • 7 in (178 mm) drumsGood sources agree: Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19, all models⁠21
Tyres155 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/D⁠2
  • 155 SR 13Good sources agree: Moss Motors, "Car Specifications – Triumph Spitfire Mk IV 1971–1974"; "…Spitfire 1500 (1975–1980)"⁠22; 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 2023⁠7
Wheelspressed 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/D⁠2
  • 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 2023⁠7
Clutch7.25 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/D⁠2
  • 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 2023⁠7

Dimensions and weight

Sources for Dimensions and weight, 1500

Length
One good source.148.8 in; UK. BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠2; British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190⁠18
Width
Several figures in print.BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠2; 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 2023⁠7; British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190⁠18
Height
Several figures in print.BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠2; 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 2023⁠7; British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190⁠18
Kerb weight
Several figures in print.BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠2; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠13; Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000⁠17; 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 2023⁠7; Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠15
Wheelbase
Good sources agree.83 in. BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠2; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠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 2023⁠7
Ground clearance
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/D⁠2; 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 2023⁠7
Fuel tank
Several figures in print.BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D⁠2; 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 2023⁠7
Length378 cm
Width148.8 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 in⁠2; British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190, the last car (1980)⁠18
  • 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 2023⁠7
Height116.2 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; UK⁠2
  • 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 2023⁠7
  • 1,163 mmOne good source: British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190, the last car (1980)⁠18
Kerb weight794 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 lb⁠2; Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠13
  • 1,780 lbOne good source: Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000, 807 kg⁠17
  • 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-US⁠7
  • 1,875 lbNot yet confirmed: Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, 1980, "last and heaviest", citing Robson⁠15
Wheelbase211 cm
Ground clearance11.8 cm
Fuel tank33 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 1978–79⁠2
  • 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)⁠7

Contents

Specification: US

Production

Sources for Production, US

Price new
Not yet confirmed.USA, 1980 model year, citing Robson 1982. Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠15
Price new$7,365

Engine

Sources for Engine, US

Capacity
One good source.US 1973 model year, "a bigger 1500cc engine" (advert copy). British Leyland Motors Inc., Leonia NJ, "You not only get a car and a girl but a piece of history." (advertisement, Triumph Spitfire 1500), US, 1973 model year, 1972⁠23
Bore × stroke
One good source.US 1974 model year. British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973⁠5
Compression ratio
Several figures in print.British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973⁠5; Moss Motors, "Car Specifications – Triumph Spitfire Mk IV 1971–1974"; "…Spitfire 1500 (1975–1980)"⁠22; 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 2023⁠7
Carburettors
Several figures in print.British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973⁠5; 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 2023⁠7
Capacity1500cc
Bore × stroke73.7 × 87.5 mm
Compression ratio7.5:1

Compression ratio, US

Several figures in print.

  • 7.5:1Good sources agree: British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973, US 1974 model year⁠5; Moss Motors, "Car Specifications – Triumph Spitfire Mk IV 1971–1974"; "…Spitfire 1500 (1975–1980)", US 1975 and California⁠22
  • 9:1Not 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, US 1976 only⁠7
  • 9.1:1Not yet confirmed: Moss Motors, "Car Specifications – Triumph Spitfire Mk IV 1971–1974"; "…Spitfire 1500 (1975–1980)", US 1976–78⁠22
Carburettorssingle Stromberg 150 CDSEV

Carburettors, US

Several figures in print.

  • single Stromberg 150 CDSEVOne good source: British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973, US 1974 model year⁠5
  • single Stromberg 150 CD4 / CD4T / CDSEVNot 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, US, by year⁠7

Performance

Sources for Performance, US

Power
Not yet confirmed.SAE net, at 5,000 rpm. 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 2023⁠7; Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠15
Torque
Not yet confirmed.≈ 69 lb ft, SAE net, at 2,500 rpm. 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 2023⁠7
Top speed
Several figures in print.British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973⁠5; triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023⁠19
0–60 mph
Several figures in print.British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973⁠5; triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023⁠19; Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠15
Standing start
One good source.Standing ¼ mile, nominal, US 1974. British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973⁠5
Red line
One good source.US 1974. British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973⁠5
Power53 bhp
Torque830 lb in
Top speed93 mph

Top speed, US

Several figures in print.

  • 93 mphOne good source: British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973, BL figure, at 6,000 rpm in 4th; US 1974⁠5
  • 94 mphNot yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023, Road & Track, May 1973⁠19
0–60 mph13.5 s

0–60 mph, US

Several figures in print.

  • 13.5 sOne good source: British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973, nominal BL figure, US 1974 model year⁠5
  • 15.4 sNot yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023, Road & Track, May 1973⁠19
  • 15.3 sNot yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023, Road & Track, Jun 1976⁠19
  • 14.3 sNot yet confirmed: triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023, Road & Track, 1980⁠19
  • 16.3 sNot yet confirmed: Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, US car, 53 bhp; Sports & GT Cars 1980⁠15
Standing start20 s
Red line6,000 rpm

Running gear

Sources for Running gear, US

Steering
One good source.US 1974. British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973⁠5
Overdrive
One good source.US 1974, J-type. British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973⁠5
Rear brakes
One good source.US 1974. British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973⁠5
Tyres
One good source.US 1974 standard. British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973⁠5
Wheels
One good source.US 1974. British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973⁠5
Clutch
Good sources agree.US 1974. British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973⁠5; British Leyland Motors Inc., Leonia NJ, "You not only get a car and a girl but a piece of history." (advertisement, Triumph Spitfire 1500), US, 1973 model year, 1972⁠23
Steering3¾ turns lock to lock
Overdriveon 3rd (4.32:1 overall) and top (3.10:1 overall), optional
Rear brakes7 × 1¼ in drums
Tyres5.20S × 13 bias-ply
Wheels13 × 4½ J
Clutch7.25 in

Dimensions and weight

Sources for Dimensions and weight, US

Length
Several figures in print.British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973⁠5; 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 2023⁠7; Moss Motors, "Car Specifications – Triumph Spitfire Mk IV 1971–1974"; "…Spitfire 1500 (1975–1980)"⁠22
Width
One good source.US 1974 (OCR "38 Ya"). British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973⁠5; 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 2023⁠7
Height
Good sources agree.US 1974 (1,207 mm). British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973⁠5; Moss Motors, "Car Specifications – Triumph Spitfire Mk IV 1971–1974"; "…Spitfire 1500 (1975–1980)"⁠22
Kerb weight
Several figures in print.British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973⁠5; Moss Motors, "Car Specifications – Triumph Spitfire Mk IV 1971–1974"; "…Spitfire 1500 (1975–1980)"⁠22; 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 2023⁠7
Wheelbase
One good source.US 1974. British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973⁠5; 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 2023⁠7
Ground clearance
One good source.Two aboard, US 1974. British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973⁠5
Fuel tank
Several figures in print.British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973⁠5; Moss Motors, "Car Specifications – Triumph Spitfire Mk IV 1971–1974"; "…Spitfire 1500 (1975–1980)"⁠22; 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 2023⁠7
Length155.25 in

Length, US

Several figures in print.

  • 155.25 inOne good source: British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973, US 1974 (3,943 mm)⁠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 2023, US⁠7
  • 156.3 inOne good source: 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, US 1976–80 (3,970 mm)⁠7; Moss Motors, "Car Specifications – Triumph Spitfire Mk IV 1971–1974"; "…Spitfire 1500 (1975–1980)", US 1975–80⁠22
Width58.5 in
Height47.5 in
Kerb weight1,710 lb

Kerb weight, US

Several figures in print.

  • 1,710 lbOne good source: British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973, "basic curb weight", US 1974⁠5
  • 1,750–1,850 lbOne good source: Moss Motors, "Car Specifications – Triumph Spitfire Mk IV 1971–1974"; "…Spitfire 1500 (1975–1980)", kerb, US Mk IV and 1500 (unladen 1,638–1,761 lb)⁠22
  • 829 / 876 (823 / 862 for 1976–80) (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, US, basic / with extras⁠7
Wheelbase83 in
Ground clearance5 in
Fuel tank8.7 US gal

Fuel tank, US

Several figures in print.

  • 8.7 US galGood sources agree: British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973, US 1974 (32.9 L)⁠5; Moss Motors, "Car Specifications – Triumph Spitfire Mk IV 1971–1974"; "…Spitfire 1500 (1975–1980)", US 1974–80⁠22
  • 9.9 US 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, later US cars⁠7

Contents

Production

Production: how far the sources agree

95,829, 1500, Dec 1974–Aug 1980; whether the US 1973–74 FM cars are included is not stated
Disputed.
91,137, 1500, 1974–80
Disputed.

  1. 95,8291500, Dec 1974–Aug 1980; whether the US 1973–74 FM cars are included is not stated

    Canley Classics, "Production Figures"⁠3; Classic & Sports Car, A–Z of classics: Triumph Spitfire I, II, III, MkIV, 1500⁠9; Malcolm McKay, "Triumph Spitfire buyer's guide: what to pay and what to look for", Classic & Sports Car, 10 May 2019⁠8; Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026⁠15; Triumph Spitfire Club (Netherlands), "Spitfire modellen", "Aankoop informatie", "Clubinfo", home⁠16; 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 2023⁠7

  2. 91,1371500, 1974–80

    Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26)⁠13

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
  1. Clive Richardson ("C.R."), "Road Impressions – The Triumph Spitfire 1500", Motor Sport, Mar 1975, p. 25: the transfers and the engine; pp. 25–26: engine, gearing, gearbox, body and cockpit; title and p. 25; p. 25: transfers and spoiler; p. 26, final paragraph: price and extras; pp. 25–26; Mar 1975 p. 25, final paragraph; Mar 1975 p. 25, text; Mar 1975 p. 25, para 4. Primary
  2. BL Cars / Jaguar Rover Triumph Ltd, Triumph Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), UK, 12/1978, Publication No. 3254/D, title and specifications; "Specifications": carburettors and final drive; title; standard equipment; options; standard equipment; "Specifications", brakes; "Performance figures from Autocar"; 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
  3. Canley Classics, "Production Figures", Spitfire 1500, December 1974–August 1980; Production Figures table, row "Spitfire 1500"; Spitfire 1500 row; Spitfire 4 and Spitfire 1500 rows. Reference
  4. Vintage Triumph Register, "Spitfire" (production history, production dates and numbers, buyer's guide tabs), production dates and numbers: 1973–1974; end of production; production dates and numbers: 1973–1974; production dates and numbers: 1973–1974 and 1975–1980; production dates and numbers: FM; end of production. Reference
  5. British Leyland Motors Inc., Spitfire 1500 (sales brochure), USA, 1974 model year, SP741, 1973, cover, 1974 model year; cover and p. USA-5; p. USA-5: engine and drive train; "New for 1974"; "New for 1974", bumper guards; 1974 brochure SP741 p. 5, "Engine"; 1974 brochure SP741 p. 5, "Performance"; 1974 brochure SP741 p. 5, "Performance" (page image); 1974 brochure SP741 p. 5, "Chassis"; 1974 brochure SP741 p. 5, "Options"; 1974 brochure SP741 p. 5, "Drive Train"; 1974 brochure SP741 p. 5, "Dimensions"; 1974 brochure SP741 p. 5. Primary
  6. Motor Sport, "Around and About, January 1975" ("A 1500 c.c. Spitfire"), Jan 1975, p. 29, "A 1500 c.c. Spitfire". Primary
  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 2023, 1500 page: why the engine was enlarged; final drive; models page, "95829 cars made"; 1500 page; general specification data; 1500 half-year table; 1500 options-and-changes log; 1979–80 VINs; 1500 options-and-changes log; paint and trim codes; 1979–80 VINs; 1500 options-and-changes log, the option pack; 1500 page, the last car; general spec; stock tyre page; 1500 change log; stock tyre page; 1500 page. Unchecked
  8. Malcolm McKay, "Triumph Spitfire buyer's guide: what to pay and what to look for", Classic & Sports Car, 10 May 2019, 1500 section: the gearbox; timeline; production figures; 1500 section, the crankshaft. Reference
  9. Classic & Sports Car, A–Z of classics: Triumph Spitfire I, II, III, MkIV, 1500, Spitfire 1500; Triumph Spitfire MkIV; A–Z entry. Reference
  10. Bill Boddy ("W.B."), "Road test: The Triumph Spitfire Mk. IV", Motor Sport, Jan 1971, p. 59, the gearbox. Primary
  11. Canley Classics, "Engine Number Identification Chart", FM and FP; engine chart, prefix FM. Reference
  12. Chris Cowin, "History: Exporting British cars to the USA – Part Two", AROnline, 31 May 2025, updated 21 Oct 2025, the 1500 "as a MY73 model". Reference
  13. Triumph Sports Six Club, Model pages: Spitfire 4/Mark II (model_ID=24), Mark III (23), Mark IV (25), 1500 (26), 1500 page; model_ID=26, "Quantity"; 1500 page, "Quantity"; 1500 page, wheel centres; model_ID=26 (1500 page); model_ID=26, "Weight"; model_ID=26, "Dimensions". Reference
  14. Fran Madigan (ed.), "Giovanni Michelotti", TRaction (Triumph Sports Owners Association Victoria), Apr–May 2023, list of Michelotti's designs. Reference
  15. Wikipedia (EN), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, production figures, citing Robson 1982 p. 187; production figures, citing Robson 1982, p. 187; 1500 section: bumpers; power; 1500 section, bumpers; 1500 section, citing Motor, 5 March 1977; 1500 section, prices citing Robson 1982; 1500 section. Unchecked
  16. Triumph Spitfire Club (Netherlands), "Spitfire modellen", "Aankoop informatie", "Clubinfo", home, "Spitfire modellen" page, production figures; engine-number table, prefix FM. Reference
  17. Practical Classics, "Buyers Guide: Triumph Spitfire", May 2000, p. 84, the late VINs; p. 83 spec table. Reference
  18. British Motor Museum, "Spitfire 1500 (last of line), 1980", accession 1980-1-190, object record, price new; object record and photograph; accession 1980-1-190, object record. Primary
  19. triumphspitfire.com, "Top Speed and Track Test Results", 2023, Autocar table, 1500; test-results table. Unchecked
  20. Wikipedia (DE), "Triumph Spitfire", 2026, Datenblatt. Unchecked
  21. Triumph Sportscars (Australia; closed end of 2016), "Spitty Tips" 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 19, Spitty Tips, brakes. Reference
  22. Moss Motors, "Car Specifications – Triumph Spitfire Mk IV 1971–1974"; "…Spitfire 1500 (1975–1980)", 1500 spec page; Mk IV and 1500 spec pages. Reference
  23. British Leyland Motors Inc., Leonia NJ, "You not only get a car and a girl but a piece of history." (advertisement, Triumph Spitfire 1500), US, 1973 model year, 1972, body text, column 2. Primary

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