Triumph Spitfire Mk1
The dainty Michelotti-styled roadster that brought Italian flair to the masses.
- Power
- 63 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 15.5 s
- Top speed
- 92 mph
- Est. value
- $7k–$25k
About the Triumph Spitfire Mk1
Launched at the 1962 London Motor Show, the Triumph Spitfire Mk1 (or Spitfire 4) was designed by Giovanni Michelotti to compete with the Austin-Healey Sprite. It utilised a shortened version of the Triumph Herald's backbone chassis, featuring a distinctive front-hinged 'clamshell' bonnet that offered unparalleled engine access. While its 1,147cc engine provided modest performance, the car's low weight and rack-and-pinion steering made it an agile companion on B-roads. Early models are noted for their simple interiors and the notorious swing-axle rear suspension, which could lead to dramatic oversteer if pushed to the limit.
Triumph Spitfire Mk1 specs
The Triumph Spitfire Mk1 produces 63 bhp (47 kW) and 91 Nm (67 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 15.5 seconds and has a top speed of 92 mph (148 km/h).
| Make | Triumph |
|---|---|
| Model | Spitfire |
| Generation | Mk1 |
| Trim | Mk1 |
| Years | 1962–1964 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 45,753 built |
| Original price | About $2,200 when new |
| Engine | 1.1-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,147 cc (1.1 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 63 bhp (47 kW) at 5,750 rpm |
| Torque | 91 Nm (67 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 15.5 s |
| Top speed | 92 mph (148 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 711 kg (1,567 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 89 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Triumph Spitfire Mk1 worth?
A typical Triumph Spitfire Mk1 is estimated to be worth $7,300 – $25,000 (about £5,400 – £19,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,200.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Triumph Spitfire Mk1 rarity in CarSpot
The Triumph Spitfire Mk1 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 38 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Triumph Spitfire Mk1 fun facts
- The Spitfire was originally codenamed 'The Bomb' during its development in the late 1950s.
- Its turning circle is just 24 feet (7.3 metres), which is tighter than a contemporary London taxi.
- The name was licensed from the Supermarine aircraft company in exchange for Triumph allowing them to use the 'Vanguard' name for a passenger plane.