Triumph Spitfire History
Catalog record
This is a brief catalog introduction with limited source documentation. A licensed, identity-checked lead photograph has not yet been added for this page. Detailed year, configuration and ownership coverage must be identified separately; this page is not a complete vehicle catalog.
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Model history available. Detailed year guides are not published for this model.
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Launched at the 1962 London Motor Show, the Spitfire was a small, low-cost two-seat roadster styled by Michelotti on a shortened Herald chassis — a direct rival to the Austin-Healey Sprite and MG Midget. Its forward-hinging one-piece bonnet and wind-up windows were neat touches at the price.
Across five series — Mk I, Mk II, Mk III, Mk IV and the final 1500 — the engine grew from 1147 cc to 1493 cc and the Michelotti styling was updated (the Mk IV adopting a cut-off Kamm tail). Roughly 315,000 were built over 18 years, making the Spitfire one of Triumph's most successful cars; the last left Canley in August 1980.
Generations
Mk I · Spitfire 4 (1147 cc)
The launch car with a 1147 cc four, forward-tilting bonnet and wind-up windows on a shortened Herald chassis.
Mk II · 1147 cc tuned
A mildly tuned, better-trimmed Mk I — same 1147 cc engine, more power and refinement.
Mk III · 1296 cc
First major facelift, with a raised front bumper and the larger 1296 cc engine.
Mk IV · Kamm-tail restyle
Michelotti restyle with a cut-off Kamm tail and cleaner lines; revised rear suspension improved handling.
Spitfire 1500 · 1493 cc
The final, longest-lived Spitfire, with the 1493 cc engine on the Mk IV body; the last cars built at Canley in 1980.
Body styles
- Roadster
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