The 1979 Triumph Spitfire 1500 is part of the third and final generation of the Spitfire, produced from 1974 to 1980. Here’s a bit of a historical breakdown of the Spitfire 1500 and the context around its production.

Background of the Triumph Spitfire

The Triumph Spitfire was a British sports car that first appeared in 1962, with its design influenced by the successful MG Midget. Over its lifespan, the Spitfire went through several iterations, with changes to styling, performance, and technology. It was originally a competitor to small roadsters like the MG Midget, Austin Healey Sprite, and the Datsun 240Z, all vying for a slice of the affordable sports car market.

The 1500 version of the Spitfire, produced from 1974-1980, represented the final chapter in its production. The car was designed to meet changing regulations and market demands, while still maintaining the lightweight, fun-to-drive nature that made the Spitfire popular.

Introduction of the 1500

The Spitfire 1500 was introduced in 1974 as a replacement for the earlier 1300cc versions. The 1500 had a 1.5-liter inline-four engine that was derived from the Triumph Herald’s engine, offering better performance and more torque than the previous 1.3-liter engines.

Key specifications of the 1979 Triumph Spitfire 1500

• Engine: 1.5-litre (1,493 cc) inline-four
• Power: Around 71 horsepower at 5,000 rpm (a slight decrease from earlier models due to emissions regulations)
• Torque: 80 lb-ft at 3,000 rpm
• Transmission: 4-speed manual, with some models offering an automatic (later in the run)
• Top Speed: Around 100 mph
• 0-60 mph: About 10-11 seconds
• Suspension: Independent front suspension with coil springs, solid rear axle with leaf springs

Design and Changes

The 1979 model, like other Spitfires in this generation, featured a full-width front bumper, which became mandatory in the US market due to new crash safety regulations. This made the car’s front end look a little bulkier than earlier models, and some purists found the change less aesthetically pleasing.

Additionally, the Spitfire 1500 had revised interior trim, larger bumpers, and newer safety features, which included higher-impact standards for safety. In terms of styling, the car retained its classic roadster look with an emphasis on a low, sporty stance and a relatively simple, minimalist interior.

Performance and Handling

While the Spitfire 1500’s engine was not particularly powerful by modern standards, the car was still widely regarded for its agile handling, especially on twisty roads. The rear-wheel drive configuration and lightweight construction allowed it to be a nimble, fun-to-drive car. However, compared to earlier Spitfires, the 1500’s performance was a little subdued, largely due to increased weight and the shift towards meeting tougher emission standards, particularly in the US.

Emissions and Government Regulations

A big challenge for the 1979 Spitfire 1500 was dealing with the emissions regulations that were increasingly stringent, particularly in the United States. This led to reduced engine output in favour of meeting federal guidelines, and the car had to be equipped with a single Zenith Stromberg carburetor and catalytic converters in some markets.

This limitation on power, along with a focus on fuel economy, meant that the Spitfire 1500 was never as quick as its earlier counterparts, but it still offered a decent driving experience.

End of Production

The 1979 Triumph Spitfire 1500 was one of the last years of production for the Spitfire. In 1980, production came to an end as part of the restructuring of British Leyland, the parent company of Triumph, which was facing financial difficulties. The last Spitfires rolled off the assembly line that year, and the model was effectively replaced by the Triumph TR7.

Legacy and Popularity

Despite its later years being less focused on raw performance, the Spitfire 1500 still holds a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts. It’s considered a classic British roadster, loved for its simple design, affordability (at the time), and pure driving experience. The car was relatively inexpensive when new, which made it popular with younger buyers and a common sight on the roads.

Today, the Triumph Spitfire 1500 is a popular car for restoration projects, with a vibrant community of owners and classic car enthusiasts keeping the model alive. The car’s simplicity makes it relatively easy to maintain, and its vintage charm continues to attract attention at car shows and auctions.

Fun Fact

The Triumph Spitfire 1500 was also the basis for the Spitfire 1500 race car, which competed in various motorsport events throughout the years, giving the car a sporty reputation both on the road and on the track.