1970 Triumph Spitfire MkIII Overdrive review from Australia and New Zealand

This car has been a labour of love. Everything has been repaired, overhauled or replaced. General running costs are low, but to keep her in top nick has cost a fortune.

New panels: bonnet, sills, windscreen surround, floor, doorskins, bootlid

Full body restoration (10 year rust warranty). New soft-top, carpets, seat and door covers. Dashboard rebuilt.

Reconditioned Overdrive (J type) gearbox from a 1500 fitted to replace my worn out unit with the older D type overdrive and no synchro on first.

Motor reconditioned, new wiring harness.

Basically she is a bit like Granddad's axe (4 new heads and 3 new handles, but just the same as always).

With everything done she is a treat. Will cruise all day at 65mph plus with the CD player blaring away. Loves the windy bits as long as it is not too bouncy due to the dodgy Triumph rear suspension. This car is a family toy like an old pet. She is only a few months younger than me! Not the most comfortable place to sit and you sure can't use the cellphone.

Now I just need about 15 years of trouble free motoring to recover all the cash I've poured into her. Woe betide anyone silly enough to bump into me the road rage would be a sight to behold.

Best thing is the sensation of speed you get with your bum so close to the ground. Who needs to do 100mph (although we did get her into the late 90's on a massive long downhill straight in Otago) when 65mph feels like you're flying.

This is a car to enjoy and play with when getting from A to B is not the whole point of the exercise.