Lot Ended
Description
With the vendor for over
31 years; current V5C shows only one former keeper; showing only 16,765 miles;
considerable restoration and preservation work over the years; structurally much
work has been undertaken, the exterior paintwork was brush-applied some years
ago and consequently the car presents as somewhat scruffy
cosmetically
Launched in 1965, the Mk II Spitfire represented
Triumph's first significant development of the pretty Michelotti-designed sports
car that had been introduced three years earlier. Power was increased from 63bhp
to 67bhp thanks to uprated carburation and camshaft revisions.
First
registered in May 1965, this charming Spitfire is a local mid-Wales car and a
wonderfully long-term ownership example. The current V5C correctly records the
vehicle as a Historic Vehicle and shows just one former keeper and then with the
vendor for over 31 years, acquiring it in 1995. Offered for sale solely due to
the owner's age and health, it has been dry stored and unused for some time but
was noted to start promptly and run willingly on site for photography and
video.
The current owner has undertaken considerable restoration and
preservation work over the years. This has included replacement inner and outer
sills, repairs to sections of the floor, chassis treatment with Hammerite and
Waxoyl protection, Polybush suspension bushes, replacement seat covers and
carpets, a new hood, copper brake and fuel lines, silicone brake fluid
conversion, replacement piston rings and fuel tank sealing. Further enhancements
include a stainless-steel four-branch exhaust manifold and matching exhaust
system.
Included within the sale is a steel hardtop and rear screen
assembly which now requires refurbishment, together with a new and unused
hardtop headlining. The original chrome work presents reasonably well and
appears largely serviceable.
The Spitfire's appearance reflects its
honest, usable nature. While structurally much work has been undertaken, the
exterior paintwork was brush-applied some years ago and consequently the car
presents as somewhat scruffy cosmetically. Nevertheless, it remains an appealing
and characterful example whose strengths lie in its extensive ownership history,
documented restoration work and pleasing originality.
The history file
includes the current V5C, original-style log book, Heritage Certificate, around
ten previous MOT certificates and a selection of invoices and receipts.
A
delightful early Spitfire with enviable provenance, just two owners from new,
substantial restoration expenditure and huge potential for sympathetic
recommissioning or light cosmetic improvement while enjoying one of Britain's
most enduring classic sports cars.
Contact:
david.tassell@brightwells.com