Spitfire 1971 MkIV Spitfire

[zedvictor1]

So I've been scouring ads for MGB's (and the occasional Spridget) for more than two years, have driven several, and have pretty much given up. Then this evening a 71 Spit appears on craigslist for a reasonable price. But I know nothing about the cars! Well, I've tried to glean some information and I think I know the 71 had the slightly redesigned body, the modified rear suspension, and the 13XX engine. (I can't remember the exact displacement.) And I appreciate the good engine and front end access, but that's it. Did it have just one Stromberg carb in the US version? Are there any areas that demand close inspection? Any more information/correction about the 71 would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Andrew Mace]

Yes, just the single Stromberg on the 1296cc engine on the MkIV. Lots of things to look for/at as with any used car, but body rust, especially in the sill area that gives the body so much of its strength (despite the "backbone" separate chassis) is the big one. Another area worth checking is crankshaft end play, as the later 1300 and 1500 engines are somewhat notorious for thrust washer wear.

Lots of good information at web sites such as TriumphSpitfire.com, and lots of folks here who can answer just about any specific questions!

 

[zedvictor1]

Thankyou, Andrew.

 

[BRSLimited]

Look for rust in the rockers, rear inner wheel arches where they meet the fender, extensions on the rear of the frame behind the differential cross members, RH front outrigger on the frame (below the battery), battery tray, closing panels on the bottom of the front of the bonnet under the headlights, rear lower valance, inner rockers, B post, lower part of the foot well between the A post and firewall. Basicly anywhere that dirt can get thrown up and and not get washed off easy. All these panels are available new and not extreamly expensive but it is quite a bit of work to install them and if you need to pay someone to do it you can quickly go more than the car will be worth when it's done. I'm finding plenty of original low mileage square tail cars some with overdrive going for pretty reasonable prices.