Various Spitfires were produced during the model’s 18-year run, with the Spitfire II appearing in 1965, the bigger-engined (1296cc) Spitfire III in ’67, the restyled Spitfire IV in 1970 and the identical looking but 1493cc Spitfire 1500 in ’74. That latter model, which went on to share its engine with the MG Midget 1500, lasted until 1980, the year after its MG rival finally bit the dust.

Which Spitfire appeals to you most will depend on your priorities and preferences, for there’s little doubt the earlier versions offer the most charismatic styling – as well as the poorest performance and most tail-happy handling. The Spitfire IV and 1500 may not look as ‘cute’, but their extra usability, improved handling and greater performance ensure they remain a popular choice with open-top enthusiasts. And there’s no shortage of off-the-shelf goodies available to make your Spittie go, stop and handle even better.

Extra power is easy, with a good choice of twin Webers or SU carbs available – and that, along with a performance air filter, will give a few extra horses. But if you want to go further and your existing engine is a bit tired, why not invest in a Stage 2 gas-flowed cylinder head as part of your rebuild? It’ll cost you the best part of £750 from Moss Europe, but will transform your Triumph’s power and performance. Handling can be improved via a heftier anti-roll bar (from less than £70) and – if funds permit – adjustable telescopic shockers. And the good news is that, unless you’re going for that Stage 2 engine, the prices of these upgrades are within most owners’ budgets.

But it’s only worth spending cash on mods if your Spitfire is a sound example to start with – and this is a model as familiar with rust and rot as any sports car of the 1960s and Seventies. But with a good proportion having been well restored or cherished by some of their more doting owners, you shouldn’t have too much difficulty finding an absolute cracker – without spending a fortune, too. 

If the idea of an MG seems just too predictable for you, perhaps the evergreen Triumph Spitfire is the perfect alternative? Running costs will be similar, the enjoyment factor will be just as great. And when you’re in the mood for some genuinely effective upgrades and mods, Britain’s Triumph specialists will be eager to help.

Published in the September 2011 issue of Classic Car Mart.

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