Triumph Spitfire (United Kingdom, 1974-1980)

In 1974, a 5th series Triumph Spitfire appeared, although this time it wasn’t called Mk5 as one would expect – this was the Spitfire 1500. This model was actually delivered in the United States earlier than the other countries because of the strict emissions regulations there, thus also receiving less power levels.   The Spitfire 1500 was rather identical to the Mk4, with changes being based on the mechanic features and on almost unnoticeable trim differences. In spite of the mechanic improvements that the Spitfire was given, such as torque increase, the car suffered from quite a few engine deficiencies. The Triumph Spitfire 1500 model stopped being produced in 1981, when 95.829 cars from this model had been built.

The Spitfire 1500 received that designation because of its 1.5-liter engine, which is placed at the front of the car and over a rear-wheel drive powertrain. Its 57 hp (53 hp in the U.S.) allows the car to reach its top speed at 94 mi/h (151 km/h) and go from 0–60 mi/h (0–97 km/h) in14.3 seconds.   Within the years of its lifetime, the Spitfire 1500’s engine was improved and ultimately it could go up to 101 mi/h (163 km/h) and achieve 60 mi/h in 13.2 seconds. This car has a 4-speed manual transmission with optional overdrive.

Steel frame.   Platform
  Suspension Front independent suspension with coil springs and rear transverse leaf spring arrangement.   Steering Rack-and-pinion steering.   Brakes Front disc brakes and rear drum brakes.

Identically to all previous Spitfire generations, Giovanni Michelotti styled the 1500 version with a 2-seat convertible (roadster) body. This sports car also had optional steel removable hardtop.