One criticism leveled against classic British Sports Cars is that while they are engaging, their engines typically produce modest power. However, this 1978 Triumph Spitfire breaks the mold because its four-cylinder engine has gone the way of the dodo. In its place is a Mazda rotary, delivering over triple the power of the original four. It is a solid classic that runs and drives, awaiting a new owner to add the finishing touches. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Spitfire listed here on Craigslist in Portland, Oregon. The seller set their price for this beauty at an extremely affordable $3,500.
Introduced in 1962, the Triumph Spitfire remained in production until 1980. It spanned five generations, with the “1500” gracing showrooms from 1974 until the company retired the badge. This 1500 left the line in 1978, ordered by its first owner in subtle White. Its presentation is tidy, with no major cosmetic issues beyond what the seller describes as a “shabby” hardtop. The soft-top is in good condition, and the seller believes a previous owner restored this classic at some point. It is rust-free, and the frame appears to have fresh paint. The trim and glass are excellent, and the aftermarket wheels are a sign that this Triumph is more than a pretty face.
As the model designation suggests, this Spitfire left the factory with a 1,500cc (actually 1,493cc) Standard four, backed by a four-speed manual transmission. However, much has changed, and many readers will believe that the upgrades are positive. A previous owner removed the original drivetrain combination and replaced it with a professionally installed Mazda 13B rotary and five-speed from an RX-7. The four-cylinder delivers only around 53hp, but the 13B is believed to put 175 hp at the driver’s disposal. The car sat for a while after the transformation, but the seller carried out a revival process. The engine has been rebuilt, and the wiring and battery are new. A few minor tasks are awaiting the buyer, including fitting the seller’s supplied ignition switch. Otherwise, the Spitfire is a turnkey proposition, described as a road-going Go-Kart.
The interior features a couple of more modern touches. The recovered seats are from a Miata, and their heating systems will make cold days more pleasant. There is also a modern Bluetooth stereo, but the rest of the interior is pure 1978 Spitfire fare. The timber dash fascia has deteriorated during storage and may not be salvageable. That isn’t the end of the world, with walnut replacement kits retailing for under $700. It would also benefit from a new carpet set, but with those items installed, it would be right on the money.
All I can say about this 1978 Triumph Spitfire is that it appears the buyer will get a lot for their money. You would struggle to find a rust-free example that is this clean for the price. However, the engine upgrade promises an enormous performance gain. A few details need attention, and I would probably consider upgrading the brakes to handle the extra power. Those issues are relatively minor, which is why I believe the Spitfire will find a new home fairly quickly.
Had a ‘74 BRG with black interior and later a ‘76. A blast to drive with the 1500 though the constant replacement of the rubber axle boot was annoying though replacing the needle bearings because the boot was replaced soon enough was more so.
But even a stock 13B motor this thing must be a riot to drive! Street legal go-kart is a very apropos description and the 5 spd would be icing on the cake. Great price with a lot of GPM’s (Grins Per Mile) and terrific conversion, the challenge would be what to do about suddenly developing a constantly heavy right foot.
What a cool swap!