| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1962 |
| Production Years: | 1962 - 1980 discontinued in 1980 |
Precise measurements of the 1962 Triumph Spitfire, engineered for optimal performance and comfort
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 3685 - 3734 mm145.1 - 147.0 in12.1 - 12.3 ft |
| Width: | 1450 mm57.1 in4.8 ft |
| Height: | 1207 mm47.5 in4.0 ft |
| Ground Clearance: | 125 mm4.9 in0.4 ft |
| Trunk Capacity: | 190 liter6.7 cu ft |
| Weight Specifications | |
| Curb Weight: | 710 - 748 kg1565 - 1649 lbs |
| Maximal permitted Weight: | 900 - 925 kg1984 - 2039 lbs |
The Triumph Spitfire, produced from 1962 to 1980, is a classic British cabriolet renowned for its compact and lightweight design, making it a beloved sports car of its era. Measuring between 3,685 mm and 3,734 mm in length (145.1 to 147.0 inches), the Spitfire's narrow width spans from 1,448 to 1,450 mm (57.0 to 57.1 inches), paired with a low height of approximately 1,205 to 1,207 mm (47.4 to 47.5 inches). This small footprint contributes to its nimble handling and sporty driving experience. The curb weight varies from 710 kg to 748 kg (1,565 to 1,649 pounds), emphasizing the car’s lightweight nature, while its maximum weight ranges between 900 and 925 kg (1,984 to 2,039 pounds), reflecting its robust build for a car of this size. Despite its compact size, the Triumph Spitfire offers a practical luggage capacity of 190 liters (6.7 cubic feet), suitable for light travel and daily use. Ground clearance is 125 mm (4.9 inches), providing sufficient ride height for typical road conditions without compromising its low-slung sports car stance. Overall, the Triumph Spitfire's dimensions and weight highlight its role as a quintessential small British roadster, combining performance agility with classic style. This size comparison is useful for enthusiasts and potential buyers looking to understand how the Spitfire fits within the category of vintage cabriolets and sports cars.
Discover the standout features that make the 1962 Triumph Spitfire a leader in its class
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The Triumph Spitfire produced between 1962 and 1980 has a length that varies slightly depending on the specific model variant within this generation. The length ranges from 3685 mm to 3734 mm (approximately 145.1 to 146.9 inches). This compact length is characteristic of many classic British cabriolets, emphasizing sporty proportions and nimble handling. The small footprint makes it easy to maneuver in tight urban environments and park in relatively small spaces compared to larger vehicles.
The width of the Triumph Spitfire throughout its 1962 to 1980 production run ranges between 1448 mm and 1450 mm (about 57.0 to 57.1 inches). This narrow width contributes to its lightweight and sporty character, enabling responsive handling and airy driving dynamics typical of classic small roadsters. The slim profile also aids in reducing aerodynamic drag and maintaining vintage styling aesthetics.
The height of the Triumph Spitfire is between 1205 mm and 1207 mm (approximately 47.4 to 47.5 inches) depending on the production year and model-specific changes. This low profile is typical of classic sports cars and cabriolets, providing a low center of gravity which improves cornering stability and overall handling. The car's relatively low height also contributes to a sleek and attractive silhouette while maintaining adequate headroom for most drivers.
The curb weight of the Triumph Spitfire ranges from 710 kg to 748 kg (about 1565 to 1649 lbs), making it a very lightweight sports car. Its maximum permitted weight lies between 900 kg and 925 kg (approximately 1984 to 2040 lbs). This light weight enhances the car's agility and performance, allowing brisk acceleration and nimble handling, which are hallmarks of the Spitfire’s driving experience. The low mass also contributes to better fuel efficiency and ease of manoeuvrability.
The Triumph Spitfire offers a luggage capacity of about 190 liters (approximately 6.7 cubic feet). While this cargo space is modest, it is typical for a small two-seater roadster. The trunk volume allows sufficient room for luggage suited to day trips or weekend excursions, such as small bags or sporting equipment, efficiently complementing the car's sporty lifestyle orientation without compromising the compact design.
The Triumph Spitfire has a ride height or ground clearance of approximately 125 mm (around 4.9 inches). This relatively low clearance is consistent with sports car design, contributing to better aerodynamics, stability, and handling during cornering. However, it means the car is less suited to rough or uneven terrain and requires more care on speed bumps or steep driveways to avoid scraping the undercarriage.
Yes, the Triumph Spitfire fits comfortably in most standard residential garages. Given the car’s compact dimensions—length between 3685 mm and 3734 mm (145.1 to 146.9 inches), width around 1448-1450 mm (57.0 to 57.1 inches), and height near 1205-1207 mm (47.4-47.5 inches)—this cabriolet occupies less space than many modern cars. Most residential garages, which typically accommodate vehicles up to 5 meters (196.9 inches) long, can shelter the Spitfire with ease, providing ample space around it for other storage or access.
The Triumph Spitfire was introduced in 1962 as a successor to the Triumph TR series, particularly following the TR3. Compared to earlier TR models, the Spitfire is smaller and lighter, reflecting its focus as an affordable, entry-level sports car. For instance, the TR3 was longer (about 4030 mm or 158.7 inches) and heavier (around 1,160 kg or 2,557 lbs). The Spitfire’s reduced dimensions—length of approximately 3.7 meters and curb weight under 750 kg—make it more agile and economical, although it sacrifices some of the raw power and grand touring space of its predecessors.
When compared with contemporaries such as the MG Midget, Austin-Healey Sprite, and Alfa Romeo Spider of the same era, the Triumph Spitfire holds a very similar footprint. Its length (3685-3734 mm) and width (~1450 mm) place it within the compact roadster category typical for British small sports cars of the 1960s and 1970s. Its light curb weight (710-748 kg) is competitive, making it one of the nimblest and most responsive handling cars among its peers. The luggage capacity of 190 liters is also average for the class, providing a good balance of practicality and sportiness.
The Triumph Spitfire, produced from 1962 to 1980, is a quintessential British small sports car and cabriolet. It's celebrated for its lightweight design, responsive handling, and stylish open-air driving experience. Over its nearly two-decade production, the Spitfire underwent several updates enhancing engine performance and comfort but retained a classic silhouette. Its modest dimensions, lightweight chassis, and relatively small luggage space make it ideal for spirited weekend drives rather than long-distance touring. The car remains a beloved collector-friendly classic, emblematic of accessible British motoring enjoyment in the mid-20th century.
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