The 1968 Triumph Spitfire, a quintessential British sports car, embodies the spirit of the Swinging Sixties. Born from the legacy of the Triumph Motor Company, the 1968 model marked a significant evolution in the Spitfire’s design and performance. With its sleek lines, spirited engine, and open-top experience, the 1968 Spitfire captured the hearts of enthusiasts and became a symbol of a vibrant era.
This article delves into the history, design, performance, cultural impact, and legacy of this iconic car, exploring its enduring appeal and its place in automotive history. From its origins to its enduring legacy, the 1968 Triumph Spitfire continues to captivate with its timeless charm and captivating performance.
History and Background
The Triumph Spitfire, a compact sports car, holds a significant place in the history of the Triumph Motor Company. It was launched in 1962 as a successor to the Triumph TR3, aiming to offer a more affordable and accessible sports car experience.
The Spitfire’s design was inspired by the earlier Triumph TR2 and TR3, but with a more modern and streamlined body.The 1968 model year marked a significant turning point in the Spitfire’s development. This year saw the introduction of a new, larger 1.3-liter engine, replacing the earlier 1.1-liter unit.
This engine upgrade provided a noticeable boost in performance, making the 1968 Spitfire a more spirited and engaging drive.
The 1968 Triumph Spitfire’s Design and Engineering
The 1968 Triumph Spitfire’s design and engineering embodied a combination of practicality and performance. The car featured a lightweight and simple construction, using a monocoque chassis with a steel body. The 1.3-liter engine, a four-cylinder unit with a single overhead camshaft, was designed to be both efficient and powerful.
It produced around 65 horsepower, allowing the Spitfire to reach a top speed of around 95 mph. The engine was mated to a four-speed manual transmission, providing a smooth and engaging driving experience.The Spitfire’s suspension system was designed to provide a balance of comfort and handling.
It featured independent front suspension with coil springs and a live rear axle with leaf springs. This setup allowed for a relatively comfortable ride while still offering responsive handling. The car’s braking system consisted of disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels, providing adequate stopping power.
The 1968 Triumph Spitfire, with its nimble handling and charming roadster design, was a popular choice for enthusiasts seeking a fun and affordable sports car. While the Spitfire was known for its compact size, its larger sibling, the 1970 Triumph TR6 , offered a more powerful and luxurious driving experience.
However, both models shared the same spirit of British sports car heritage, capturing the hearts of drivers who appreciated the thrill of open-top motoring.
“The 1968 Spitfire was a true driver’s car, offering a combination of affordability, performance, and style.”
A Triumph Enthusiast
Design and Features
The 1968 Triumph Spitfire, a classic British sports car, showcased a distinctive design that embodied the spirit of the era. Its lightweight construction, nimble handling, and attractive styling made it a popular choice for enthusiasts.
Bodywork
The 1968 Spitfire featured a sleek and compact body, designed by Italian coachbuilder Michelotti. Its low-slung profile, rounded fenders, and distinctive grille gave it a sporty and elegant appearance. The car’s body was constructed primarily of steel, with aluminum panels used for the hood and doors.
The Spitfire’s distinctive “Coke bottle” shape, a common design feature of sports cars in the 1960s, accentuated its curves and added to its visual appeal.
Interior
Inside, the Spitfire offered a simple yet functional interior. The dashboard was designed with a focus on practicality, featuring a large speedometer and a centrally mounted tachometer. The seats were comfortable and supportive, though they were not as plush as those found in more luxurious sports cars.
The interior featured a mix of vinyl and fabric upholstery, with a choice of colors to suit individual preferences. The 1968 model also included a redesigned dashboard, which was considered to be more user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing.
Engine
The 1968 Spitfire was powered by a 1.1-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 65 horsepower. This engine was known for its responsive nature and its ability to rev freely. It was mated to a four-speed manual transmission, which provided a smooth and engaging driving experience.
The 1968 model featured a revised engine with improved performance and fuel efficiency compared to earlier models.
Comparison with Earlier and Later Models
The 1968 Spitfire represented a significant step forward from earlier models, notably the Mark I and Mark II. The Mark III, introduced in 1967, featured a larger engine, a more refined interior, and a revised suspension. The 1968 model retained these improvements while incorporating further refinements, including a redesigned dashboard and a new grille.
The 1968 Spitfire also paved the way for future models, such as the Mark IV, which was introduced in 1970. The Mark IV featured a larger 1.3-liter engine, a wider track, and a more modern interior. However, the 1968 model remained a popular choice for its classic styling and its relatively simple design.
Available Options and Accessories, 1968 Triumph Spitfire
The 1968 Spitfire offered a range of options and accessories to personalize the car. These included a hardtop, a tonneau cover, a radio, and a variety of wheel options. Some of the popular accessories included a luggage rack, a driving lamp kit, and a heater.
The availability of these options allowed owners to customize their Spitfires to their specific needs and preferences.
Performance and Handling: 1968 Triumph Spitfire
The 1968 Triumph Spitfire, despite its relatively small size and modest engine, offered a spirited driving experience that captivated enthusiasts of the time. Its performance characteristics, while not groundbreaking, were more than adequate for its intended purpose: delivering an engaging and affordable sports car experience.
Engine Performance
The 1968 Spitfire was powered by a 1.1-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 65 horsepower. While this may seem modest by today’s standards, it was sufficient to provide a lively driving experience in a car that weighed just over 1,500 pounds. The engine’s relatively low weight and high revving capabilities allowed for brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 12 seconds.
The top speed was around 95 mph.
Handling and Driving Experience
The Spitfire’s handling was its strong suit. Its lightweight construction and relatively short wheelbase contributed to its nimble and responsive nature. The car was known for its precise steering and its ability to corner with surprising agility. The independent suspension system, featuring coil springs and telescopic shock absorbers, provided a good balance between comfort and handling.The Spitfire’s driving experience was characterized by its engaging and involving nature.
The driver felt connected to the road, with the car responding directly to their inputs. The manual transmission, with its four gears, allowed for a spirited and engaging driving experience, particularly on winding roads.
The 1968 Triumph Spitfire, with its compact design and peppy engine, was a popular choice for enthusiasts seeking a sporty yet affordable ride. While the Spitfire offered a more modern take on the classic British roadster, its lineage can be traced back to the iconic 1959 Triumph TR3A , a car known for its powerful performance and elegant styling.
Both models epitomized the spirit of British sports cars, capturing the hearts of drivers with their agile handling and timeless appeal.
Comparison to Competitors
The 1968 Triumph Spitfire faced stiff competition from other affordable sports cars of the time, such as the MG Midget and the Austin-Healey Sprite. While the Spitfire shared many similarities with its rivals, it offered a slightly more refined and comfortable driving experience.
Its engine was also slightly more powerful than the Midget and Sprite, giving it a slight edge in terms of performance.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
The 1968 Triumph Spitfire, a symbol of youthful exuberance and freedom, played a significant role in shaping the cultural landscape of the “Swinging Sixties.” Its sleek design, affordability, and spirited performance resonated with a generation embracing change and defying conventions.
Association with the “Swinging Sixties”
The 1968 Triumph Spitfire perfectly embodied the spirit of the “Swinging Sixties.” This era was marked by a surge in social and cultural change, with youth culture, music, fashion, and art breaking away from traditional norms. The Spitfire, with its open-top design and sporty demeanor, became a symbol of this liberation, offering a sense of adventure and freedom.
It was often seen cruising along coastal roads, driven by young, stylish individuals who epitomized the era’s carefree attitude. The Spitfire’s association with this cultural movement cemented its place in popular culture and helped to solidify its iconic status.
The 1968 Triumph Spitfire, with its sleek lines and peppy 1.1-liter engine, became a British sports car icon. While the original design remained, subtle changes were introduced over the years, including a larger 1.3-liter engine in the 1974 Triumph Spitfire.
This updated model, while still retaining the spirit of its predecessor, offered a bit more power and torque, further solidifying the Spitfire’s reputation as a fun and affordable roadster.
Ownership and Restoration
Owning a 1968 Triumph Spitfire is a rewarding experience, but it comes with its own set of challenges. These cars are known for their charming character and spirited performance, but they are also relatively old and require dedicated care and maintenance.
This section will guide you through the key aspects of owning and restoring a 1968 Triumph Spitfire, equipping you with the knowledge to keep your classic car running smoothly for years to come.
Common Issues and Problems
The 1968 Triumph Spitfire, like any classic car, is prone to certain common issues. Understanding these problems and their potential solutions is essential for maintaining your car’s health.
- Electrical System:The electrical system in these cars can be sensitive, often experiencing issues with wiring, connections, and components. Common problems include intermittent electrical faults, dim headlights, and faulty gauges.
- Engine:The 1.1-liter engine, while spirited, can be prone to issues like oil leaks, carburetor problems, and ignition issues.
- Rust:Due to their age, 1968 Spitfires can be susceptible to rust, especially in areas like the body panels, chassis, and undercarriage.
- Suspension:The suspension components, including bushings, shock absorbers, and springs, can wear out over time, leading to handling issues and noise.
- Brakes:The brake system, particularly the hydraulic components, can develop leaks or wear, requiring regular inspection and maintenance.
Recommended Solutions
- Electrical System:Thoroughly inspect and repair any damaged wiring, ensure clean and secure connections, and replace faulty components. Consider upgrading to modern wiring harnesses for improved reliability.
- Engine:Regularly maintain the engine with oil changes, tune-ups, and carburetor adjustments. Address any oil leaks promptly and consider rebuilding the engine if necessary.
- Rust:Treat rust promptly with rust converters and protective coatings. Consider professional restoration services for extensive rust damage.
- Suspension:Replace worn suspension components with high-quality replacements. Regularly inspect and lubricate suspension joints.
- Brakes:Inspect the brake system regularly for leaks and wear. Replace brake pads, rotors, and other components as needed.
Finding Parts and Resources
Finding parts for a 1968 Triumph Spitfire is relatively easy thanks to the large and active community of enthusiasts. Here are some valuable resources:
- Online Retailers:Numerous online retailers specialize in Triumph parts, offering a wide selection of new, used, and refurbished components. Some popular options include:
- Moss Motors
- Victoria British
- The Roadster Factory
- British Parts Northwest
- Local Parts Suppliers:Check with local classic car parts suppliers in your area. They may have specialized knowledge and access to hard-to-find parts.
- Triumph Clubs:Joining a Triumph club can connect you with a network of enthusiasts who can offer advice, parts leads, and support.
- Online Forums:Online forums dedicated to Triumph Spitfires are excellent sources of information, advice, and parts recommendations.
Restoration Process
Restoring a 1968 Triumph Spitfire can be a rewarding but challenging project. It requires dedication, patience, and a good understanding of the car’s mechanics. Here’s a general Artikel of the restoration process:
- Assessment:Begin by thoroughly assessing the car’s condition, identifying areas that need restoration. This may involve inspecting the body, engine, interior, and mechanical components.
- Disassembly:Disassemble the car to access the areas requiring restoration. This may involve removing the engine, body panels, interior components, and other parts.
- Bodywork:Address any rust damage, dents, or imperfections in the body panels. This may involve welding, body filler, sanding, and painting.
- Engine and Mechanical Components:Rebuild or repair the engine, transmission, and other mechanical components as needed. This may involve replacing worn parts, rebuilding the engine block, and overhauling the transmission.
- Interior:Reupholster the seats, replace worn carpets and trim, and restore or replace any damaged interior components.
- Reassembly:Reassemble the car, ensuring that all components are properly installed and functioning correctly.
- Final Touches:Perform a final inspection, addressing any remaining issues, and detailing the car to restore its original shine.
Tips for Restoration
- Research:Thoroughly research the restoration process, including the specific requirements for your model year.
- Budget:Establish a realistic budget for the restoration, taking into account the cost of parts, labor, and unforeseen expenses.
- Patience:Restoration projects can take time, so be patient and persistent throughout the process.
- Professional Help:Consider seeking professional help for specialized tasks like bodywork, engine rebuilding, or paintwork.
- Documentation:Keep detailed records of the restoration process, including parts used, repairs performed, and any modifications made.
Conclusion
Owning and restoring a 1968 Triumph Spitfire is a journey that combines passion, dedication, and a love for classic cars. With the right resources, knowledge, and patience, you can enjoy the unique experience of driving this iconic British roadster.
Last Word
The 1968 Triumph Spitfire stands as a testament to British engineering and design excellence. Its combination of classic styling, spirited performance, and affordable price made it a beloved classic that continues to capture the imagination of car enthusiasts today. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of vintage sports cars, the 1968 Triumph Spitfire offers a unique and rewarding experience that embodies the spirit of a bygone era.