For Sale at Auction: 1970 Triumph Spitfire in Scottsdale, Arizona

Conceived as Triumph's archrival to BMC's compact Austin-Healey Sprite/MG Midget sports models, the Spitfire featured sleek, open bodywork, fully independent suspension and a tuned 4-cylinder engine. Enjoying fabulous success with production spanning 1962 to 1980 along four distinct "Mark" evolutions, the new Triumph was named after Britain's heroic Spitfire fighter plane of WW II fame. Benefiting from comprehensive updates, the Spitfire Mk III was produced from 1967 to 1970, including this late-production, North American Export model, built on May 29, 1970. Shipped on July 7, 1970, the Spitfire was delivered new to the United States via British Leyland Motors Inc. in Los Angeles, CA. Purchased from Holland by Hollywood entertainment legend Simon Cowell in 2019, the Spitfire was immediately sent to Cotswold Classic Car Restorations of Gloucestershire, England, for restoration and bespoke upgrades to Mr. Cowell's order. Following a detailed examination of the vehicle by Cotswold, the Spitfire was stripped to bare metal, fitted with the earlier Mk II-style front end to the existing bonnet, and repainted in glossy black. All chrome brightwork was restored and reinstalled for an outstanding and authentic presence. All mechanical components and systems were rebuilt, restored and highly detailed, including the engine, electrical system, suspension and brakes. Coilover shock absorbers, a retrofitted 5-speed manual gearbox and a limited-slip differential maximize the Spitfire's performance, heightened by dual Weber twin-choke carburetors and a dual-exhaust system. Following the restoration, Cotswold professionally tuned the engine on a chassis dynamometer. The Spitfire's racy cockpit was fully restored, including rich red leather upholstery, high-back bucket seats with headrests, new carpets and a new walnut dash. A wood-rimmed Moto-Lita steering wheel, Triumph-logo shift knob and digital AM/FM CD stereo unit complete the Spitfire's appointments. Splendidly presented throughout and ready to drive, show and enjoy, the Spitfire is accompanied at auction by a British Motor Industry Heritage Trust certificate, plus purchase and ownership paperwork and a detailed restoration and build summary.