1977 Triumph Spitfire 1500 from UK and Ireland - Comments

Head gasket blew at 102,000 miles.

Clutch spring let go at 100,000 miles.

Chassis has bad rust which I had to get welded, which was not cheap.

Universal joints needed replacing at 96,000 miles.

Window wiper motor failed.

Drivers door handle broke twice.

Front trunnioins needed replacing at first MOT.

Despite the faults listed above, this is the best car I have ever owned. I use it every day, which I can't say I'd recommend, it is 25 years old. It's not the most reliable car, but it just looks and handles so well that I can forgive it for its short comings. Actually it handles so well it'll give most modern "sports cars" a run for their money down a country lane. However it could do with a bit more poke from under the bonnet, but the speed it carries through the turns makes up for it.

It is a very small car. Every car I park it next to dwarfs it, but that's not really a problem because you can get in and out of any parking space with ease. I'm 6ft4 and although a little cramped it is surprisingly comfortable.

Wow! I thought I was the only tall spitfire driver! I agree with all your comments, it's a great car, even if I had to get a smaller steering wheel just so I could get into it!

Yes, I agree with everything you said about the Spitfire. I have just bought a 1977 Spitfire and it is a real fun drive. I am 6ft 2inches, but once inside it is quite comfy, and don't you just love the looks and comments that you get?

I am 6'6", with slight mods to the slides I fit in the 78 spit 1500 very well, with or without the top up... barely use the top really, I love the small light and nimble feel of the car and put it through its paces through many of BC's windy mountain roads... it may be thirty now, but I wouldn't sell it for anything. Have made many repairs during road trips and during the off season... all part of the joy of the small Brits, either behind the tool or behind the wrench its well worth the effort you put in, of course it helps that I am an electrical tech, there is always work with Lucas parts.

I bought a white one with tan interior in the spring of '77; brand new. the ride was smooth and comfortable but the engine had little power. Within a month, the fabric upholstery was worn through. Dealership replaced it. The first heavy rain a torrent of cold water poured thru the roof seal directly into my lap. (Later I took it to the dealer and they went to kmart and bought some garage door seal strips of foam rubber with tacky back and stuck some of this sloppily on the windscreen frame.) the wipers went out and I had to drive some distance with my head out the window. the engine needed constant repair and the transmission began to grind like a pencil sharpener. the suspension sprung within two years and the car sat at an angle like a fat person was in it. this was probably the worst car I have ever seen and the only redeeming quality it possessed was it was so poorly made it was funny.