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Triumph

Triumph - Spitfire (1979)

Ever dreamed of hopping into a time machine that roars with pure British charm? The Triumph Spitfire 1979 model is the embodiment of that nostalgia, a compact two‑seater that captured the spirit of the 1970s road trip. When you talk about a Triumph Spitfire price, the answers vary as widely as the conditions, mileage, and rarity of the one you’re eyeing. Whether you’re browsing the market for a used Triumph Spitfire price or curious about a fresh return from the classic knock‑offs, the vintage automotive arena is as dynamic as the city streets the Spitfire once conquered.

Key Specs (1979 Triumph Spitfire)

  • Engine: 1.2‑L DOHC inline‑four, delivered 68 hp at 6,500 rpm.
  • Transmission: 5‑speed manual, housed in a lightweight, rear‑mounted layout.
  • Fuel Type: Regular unleaded gasoline.
  • Dimensions: Length 132 in (3,353 mm), width 58 in (1,473 mm), height 44 in (1,117 mm).
  • Wheelbase: 85 in (2,159 mm).
  • Weight: ~1,400 lb (635 kg) (varies with options and aftermarket additions).
  • Powertrain: Power delivered through a single‑pistone camshaft, delivering nostalgic 4‑stroke performance.
  • Suspension: MacPherson strut front, trailing arm rear.
  • Brakes: Disc brakes front, drum brakes rear.
  • Top Speed: Roughly 70 mph (112 km/h).

Depreciation Insight

Understanding the economics of a Triumph Spitfire 1979 price involves looking at how this model ages in the market. The classic sports coupe typically loses 15‑20% of its original value in the first year after it hits the collector’s market. Over the next decade, the yearly drop slows, often ranging from 5‑10% per year as buyers come to recognize its heritage worth. For many owners, the 1979 Triumph Spitfire becomes a bit more valuable once it reaches 20‑25 years of age, making it a popular subject for “classic” connoisseurs who appreciate its “old‑school” engineering.

Comparison Context

When you ask “what is a 1979 Triumph Spitfire worth?” it’s useful to compare it with its contemporary peers. The Triumph Spitfire 1979 price typically sit in line with that of the Ford Fiesta Mk I, Volkswagen Golf Mk I, and the Mini Cooper (Mark II). All three share a compact, economical philosophy, but the Spitfire stands out for its smooth transmission and classic styling cues. In current listings, a 1979 Spitfire that’s been dutifully maintained or restored may compete with a similarly vintage 1979 Ford or a more recent early‑70s VW Golf for a slight premium—yet the criteria hinge almost entirely upon condition, original components, and mileage.

Market Position Statement

Despite its modest horsepower, the Triumph Spitfire remains a sought‑after icon in the classic car market segment. Enthusiasts value it for its lightweight chassis, drift potential, and the thin, slung body that speaks to a “no‑frills” lifestyle. Apart from collectors, the vehicle finds enthusiasts within the known road‑sport community, who gravitate toward its spirited two‑seat layout. The model’s historical presence in UK car culture makes it more popular in the United Kingdom and eastern Europe, where restoration tips and parts are plentiful within online forums and local clubs.

What Cooks Up a Legitimate “Used Triumph Spitfire Price”?

The price of a 1979 Spitfire is not a one‑size beauty. Several factors play a part: