Registration – JEK 9H

Chassis No. – FD80622

M.O.T. – Exempt

Odometer – 83,137

With the Triumph Spitfire launching in 1962, it was the MKIII of 1967 that really started to capture the public’s attention. ‘JEK 9H’ is a much loved example of the MKIII model, hailing from March 1970. Between then and the 1980’s, ‘JEK 9H’ was enjoyed by five keepers. During the 1980’s, however, this Spitfire came into the ownership of the current keeper as their first car. ‘JEK 9H’ has since been in the same family ownership ever since – over 40 years! This “family member” was restored around five years ago with significant works undertaken to bring ‘JEK 9H’ up to standard. Offered today with no reserve this delightful Spitfire perfectly showcases why it has been so loved for so long.

‘JEK 9H’s’ earlier restoration encompassed mechanical, bodywork and aesthetic improvements. Work included a partial engine rebuild, new exhaust system and attention to the steering components. Many electrical ancillaries were replaced, including coil, distributor cap, spark plugs and battery. The majority of the interior was replaced to include upgraded seats, new steering wheel, new gear knob and the walnut veneer to the instrument binnacle was replaced. The footwells were also replaced at this stage. Lastly all the exterior badges were renewed. The result is a nicely presented example of the Spitfire MKIII in Triumph White (code 19) over a predominantly black interior. This translates into the vendor rating paint, bodywork, engine and transmission as “good” with the electrics and interior being judged as “average.”

The MKIII iteration of Spitfire marked the diminutive sports car’s first major facelift. The svelte Michelotti design was refreshed but retained its stylish but slender profile. Perhaps the most significant upgrade was to the increase to a 1,296cc capacity and the accompanying 10% plus increase in power. Given the Spitfire’s light kerb weight of around 700 kg, the 75bhp now on tap made for some surprisingly grown up road dynamics. In this guise the Spitfire was able to offer the winning combination of a 95 mph top speed and 30 plus miles per gallon economy in normal use. It is not surprise, perhaps, that over 65,000 MKIIIs were ultimately built and sold.

In summary:

· Offered from a 40-year plus single family ownership

· Benefiting from a recent restoration encompassing mechanical and aesthetic improvements

· Presenting in the purists’ choice of desirable MKIII guise