Triumph Spitfire (1962-1980)
The Triumph Spitfire had a few common issues:
1. Engines: The 1147cc and 1296cc engines are generally durable, but it’s crucial to ensure the correct oil filter is fitted to prevent premature engine failure.
2. Alignment: Check the alignment to avoid handling issues.
3. Rust: Like many classic cars, rust can be a problem. Inspect the bodywork thoroughly.
4. Gearbox: Keep an eye on the gearbox for any signs of wear or issues.
Generations
The Triumph Spitfire was manufactured over five production iterations between 1962 and 1980. These iterations included the following models:
1. Spitfire 4 (Mark I): Produced from October 1962 to December 1964 with an 1147 cc inline-four engine.
2. Spitfire 4 Mark II: Manufactured from December 1964 to January 1967.
3. Spitfire Mark III: Produced from January 1967 to December 1970 with a 1296 cc inline-four engine.
4. Spitfire Mark IV: Manufactured from November 1970 to December 1974.
5. Spitfire 1500: Produced from December 1974 to August 1980 with a 1493 cc inline-four engine.
Versions
The Triumph Spitfire was available in several versions throughout its production:
1. Mk1 (Originally badged Spitfire 4): Introduced in 1962, this early version featured an 1147cc engine.
2. Mk2 (Originally badged Spitfire 4 Mk2): Produced after the Mk1, it continued with the same 1147cc engine.
3. Mk3: Introduced in 1967, it featured a 1296cc powerplant.
4. MkIV: Following the Mk3, it retained the 1296cc engine but with less power due to emissions control equipment.
5. 1500: The final iteration, produced from 1974 to 1980, had a 1493cc engine.
Spares
If you're looking for **Triumph Spitfire** spares in the United Kingdom and Ireland, here are some options:
1. **Spitbitz**:
- They've been in business for over 30 years and can supply anything from a wheelnut to a chassis for your Triumph Spitfire.
- **Guaranteed to beat any other trader's price!**
- Telephone: 0118 973 2648 or Email: info@spitbitz.co.uk.
- [Website]
2. **AutopartsPro**:
- Offers new Spitfire parts online with fast and free shipping.
- [Website]
3. **Moss Europe**:
- Buy Triumph Spitfire parts & spares online.
- Fast shipping, easy returns & thousands of parts always in stock.
- [Website]
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Specialists
**NORTHERN IRELAND TRIUMPH SPECIALISTS**
Specialist Triumph mechanics in County Antrim, Northern Ireland:
1. **McMillan Specialist Cars**: Located in Antrim, they offer a range of services including repairs, servicing, and parts for various car brands, including Triumph.
- **Address**: Unit 10, Plasketts Close, Kilbegs Road, Antrim, BT41 4NN
- **Phone**: 028 9335 4911
2. **Phillip McCallen Motorcycles**: Based in Lisburn, they provide servicing, repairs, and parts for Triumph motorcycles.
- **Address**: 7 Altona Road, Lisburn, BT27 5QB
- **Phone**: 028 9262 2886
Specialist Triumph mechanics in County Armagh, Northern Ireland:
1. **Phillip McCallen Motorcycles**: Originally started in Lurgan, County Armagh, they now have a modern showroom and workshop in Lisburn, County Antrim. They offer servicing, repairs, and parts for Triumph motorcycles.
- **Address**: Unit 10/11 Portman Business Park, Lissue Industrial Estate, Moira Road, Lisburn, BT28 2RF
- **Phone**: 0330 311 7155
2. **McMullan Auto Services**: While not exclusively Triumph, they offer comprehensive car servicing and maintenance in Armagh.
- **Address**: 1 Moy Road, Armagh, BT61 8DL
- **Phone**: 028 3753 1766
Specialist Triumph mechanics in County Down, Northern Ireland:
1. **Ards Brake & Clutch Service Centre**: Located in Newtownards, they offer a range of repair services and have a good reputation for quality work.
- **Address**: Unit 4 Lansdowne Road, Newtownards, BT23 4NT
- **Phone**: 028 9181 2222
- **Website**: [ardsbrakeandclutch.co.uk](https://ardsbrakeandclutch.co.uk/)
2. **Patterson Auto Electrics**: Based in Crossgar, they specialize in car electrics but also offer various other garage services.
- **Address**: 1 Downpatrick Road, Crossgar, BT30 9EQ
- **Phone**: 028 4483 1234
- **Website**: [wilfiepatterson.co.uk](https://www.wilfiepatterson.co.uk/)
Specialist Triumph mechanics in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland:
1. **M & S Fastfit**: Located in Enniskillen, they offer a range of auto repair services and have experience with classic cars.
- **Address**: Kilmacormick Road, Enniskillen, BT74 6HZ
- **Phone**: 028 6632 5555
2. **Cranston Van & Motorhome Centre**: While they primarily focus on motorhomes, they also provide servicing and repairs for various vehicles, including classic cars.
- **Address**: 9 Riverside Park, Ballinamallard, Enniskillen, BT94 2AB
- **Phone**: 028 6638 8700
Specialist Triumph mechanics in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland:
1. **Lloyd Cooke Motors Ltd**: They offer expert vehicle maintenance and car bodywork repairs.
- **Address**: 53 Lismacarol Road, Londonderry, BT47 3LZ
- **Phone**: 028 7130 2100
- **Website**: [lloydcookemotors.com](https://www.lloydcookemotors.com/)
2. **T & D Heaney Motor Co**: Located in Maghera, they specialize in classic car restoration, including Triumphs.
- **Address**: 20 Main Street, Swatragh, Maghera, BT46 5QB
- **Phone**: 028 7940 1660
- **Website**: [mercedesrestoration.co](https://www.mercedesrestoration.co/)
Specialist Triumph mechanics in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland:
1. **Tyrone Diesel Systems**: Located in Omagh, they specialize in diesel systems but also offer a range of vehicle repair services.
- **Address**: 1 Gortrush Industrial Estate, Omagh, BT78 5EJ
- **Phone**: 028 8224 2222
- **Website**: [tyronedieselsystems.com](https://www.tyronedieselsystems.com/)
2. **Hydraulic Pumps NI**: Based in Dungannon, they specialize in hydraulic systems but also provide general vehicle maintenance and repairs.
- **Address**: 12 Ballygawley Road, Dungannon, BT70 1EL
- **Phone**: 028 8772 2222
- **Website**: [hydraulicpumpsni.com](https://www.hydraulicpumpsni.com/)
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Racing
The Triumph Spitfire had a successful racing history, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s:
1. **Le Mans**: The Spitfire competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, achieving notable success in its class. In 1965, a Spitfire finished 13th overall and 1st in the 1.3-litre class.
2. **SCCA Racing**: In the United States, the Spitfire was popular in Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) racing. It won several national championships in the F Production class.
3. **Rallying**: The Spitfire also saw success in rallying, participating in events like the Alpine Rally and the Monte Carlo Rally.
The Triumph Spitfire achieved several prestigious wins and championships:
1. **SCCA National Championships**: The Spitfire was highly successful in the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) racing, winning numerous national championships in the F Production class. It had a remarkable run, securing titles in multiple years from the mid-1960s through the 1970s².
2. **24 Hours of Le Mans**: In 1965, a Triumph Spitfire finished 13th overall and 1st in its class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans¹. This was a significant achievement, showcasing the car's endurance and performance capabilities.
These victories helped establish the Spitfire as a competitive and respected sports car in the racing community.