The Triumph Spitfire and GT6 were two of Britain’s best-loved post-war sports cars. The Spitfire first appeared in 1962 and developed through five distinct versions during a production life that continued until 1980. Its six-cylinder stablemate, the GT6, arrived in 1966 and progressed through three Marks of its own before production ended in 1973. Although closely related, the two models offered quite different characters. The Spitfire was an affordable open two-seater, while the GT6 combined fastback coupé styling with the greater performance of Triumph’s six-cylinder engine. Both evolved continually as Triumph introduced mechanical improvements, revised their styling and altered numerous details of trim and equipment. Today, identifying the correct original specification of an individual Spitfire or GT6 can be difficult. This book examines the production changes made throughout the lives of both models, covering engines, transmissions and running gear, body panels and colours, electrical equipment, dashboards, controls, seats and interior trim. Factory options and variations between different markets are also explained. Illustrated throughout with Richard Dredge’s specially commissioned colour photography of carefully selected cars, the book provides the visual detail needed to identify the correct components and finishes. It is an invaluable reference for restorers seeking accuracy, buyers checking a prospective purchase and owners curious to discover whether their car still has the right parts.
