The Spitfire was launched by Triumph back in 1962, as a small lightweight sports car powered by an eager 1,147cc four-cylinder, 63 bhp engine. The slightly more powerful and plusher Mk 2 was introduced in 1965, Triumph making only 37,408 until bringing in the Mk 3 in 1967.
Several other versions followed until, after 20 years and 320,000 sales, production of the Spitfire was brought to a halt.
With the 1960s models being the more sought after with their low chrome bumpers, the comparative rarity of the revised and improved Mk 2 would probably be the smarter choice for long-term investment.
The current owner purchased the car in 2017 and reports it had just undergone a complete restoration including a professional bare metal respray and being re-trimmed. Unfortunately, there was no accurate history detailing the extent of the restoration, due to the car being part of an estate sale after the previous owner’s untimely demise. There are a few photographs showing the car in its stripped-down state where it is thought that all body and floor panels were repaired or replaced as necessary before having a total respray in its original bright Signal Red.
At this time, it appears that the original black interior was re-trimmed to a very high standard to the current red colour.
Mechanically there is no evidence of any modification and the current owner has had no need to do any significant work, reporting that mechanically it runs and drives very sweetly.
The current owner has made a few electrical upgrades, replacing the dynamo with an alternator, and fitting the more reliable electronic ignition.
During his 5-year ownership the car has always been garaged and used sparingly, only on dry days naturally, regularly maintained and cared for. The owner reports that the indicated mileage of 62,500 is unlikely to be completely accurate, as the counter occasionally seems to stick.
The car is supplied with a V5c and the last few years of receipts for various work that has been done, together with the last few MOTs. There is no paperwork to support its previous history other than the photos showing its totally stripped-down state and a Heritage certificate confirming its provenance.
The car is supplied with two sets of ignition keys and separate door lock keys.
The re-trimmed red interior with contrasting piping is in great condition and looks spectacular with black carpeting finishing off the overall quality look and feel. The white steering wheel and the handsome looking dashboard with the centre mounted gauges and switches are all in good condition and overall they present a very pleasing vista and enticing environment indeed.
The Signal Red paintwork looks deep and glossy though there are the odd small blemishes and the beginnings of slight bubbling around the usual places if you look hard enough. There is the occasional imperfection to be found but nothing of any obvious concern.
The White hard top is in great condition and the chrome bumpers and various fittings look almost new, showing hardly any pitting or denting. Similarly, all the rubber seals around the windscreen and around the car look in great shape.
The original painted wheels look good, and the hubcaps are all present and correct. A brand new, never used, black vinyl hood is also included in the sale.
There is a small dent on the underside of the car by the driver’s door which was possibly caused when the car was last on an inspection ramp.
The current owner reports no mechanical issues or oddities and one look inside the pristine and tidy engine bay would certainly lend credence to the obvious care and attention that has been shown to this car.
The car has been modified to run on unleaded fuel.
This is a very reluctant sale by the current owner who is moving to a new house where he will have no garage. Of all the Mk2s produced the current owner believes there are only around 20 still on UK roads today making this a rare car indeed.
The early Spitfires are great fun to own and drive, being simple and affordable to maintain and work on, with motoring enthusiasts now recognising their potential and advantages of ownership.
The striking colour combination and overall excellent condition of this 1966 Mk 2 Triumph Spitfire should cause the next owner nothing but pure driving pleasure and admiring glances for many years to come.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
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1966 Triumph Spitfire MK 2
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