Registration - HJA 997E

Chassis No. - FD/5383

M.O.T. - Exempt

Odometer - 59,014

This unique Spitfire is registered as a MKIII but features some MKIV parts, including the rear end. It was treated to a colour change from blue to red back in 1986, which is paired with black interior trim. The car features an Ashley fibreglass bonnet in place of the original steel one which, with its fared-in headlights, is somewhat reminiscent of those of the Spitfire Le Mans racers. The powerplant is the correct 1296cc unit of some 75bhp that drives through a four-speed manual gearbox. Since acquiring the car last year the vendor has: installed a new radiator, water pump, thermostat, auxiliary drive belt, HT leads, spark plugs and distributor cap; replaced the original braking system with EBC grooved discs and Green Stuff pads; fitted new front springs and fresh dampers all-round, not to mention a set of Dunlop 155/80R13 StreetResponse 2 tyres and a pair of Securon static seatbelts. The Triumph has been garaged when not in use and is currently considered by the vendor to have a ‘good’ engine and transmission, ‘average’ bodywork and paintwork, and ‘below average’ upholstery. He is now offering ‘HJA 997E’ complete with a large selection of invoices and receipts – the odometer currently registers a credible but unwarranted 59,014 miles.

The prototype Spitfire was produced by Standard Triumph in 1957. It was based on a modified Herald chassis clothed in a swooping two-seater body penned by Giovanni Michelotti. Unlike the rival Austin-Healey Sprite, it featured wind-up windows; also a single-piece front end that folded forward to provide optimum access the engine bay. With the MKIII version of 1967, came the first major facelift and an increase in engine capacity from 1147 to 1296cc. Some 65,320 MKIIIs were made during three years of production.

In summary:

• A unique example featuring some later parts and Ashely bonnet
• Has recently benefited from various replacements and a service
• The colour was changed from blue to red in 1986