Thank you to TheScrapman who flagged your story to me and who appears to have a photographic memory for number plates.
I bought the Spitfire from your father, I think I bought it in Hemel Hempstead, or somewhere nearby in Hertfordshire.
I had owned several Spitfires previously, and discussed with my brother what my ultimate Spitfire would be - a MkIII with 2500cc straight six engine and GT6 suspension - exactly what your father had for sale! It was a bit rough in places, but went like a rocket!
It was indeed British Racing Green at the time and had obviously seen a lot of previous enjoyment.
Over seven years, I replaced the bonnet, gearbox, bumpers, wheels, hood, doors and many other parts. The beautiful bespoke interior was trimmed by Cliff - who you occasionally see on Car SOS.
Once the bodywork was done, in 1997 I had it painted Jaguar regency red (burgundy) and absolutely loved the car. It even won a concours prize at the TSSC national.
I'm afraid the story does not end well. In 2002 I took it France as a reconnaissance for the events that TheScrapman (Colin) and I went on to run at the Le Mans Classic from 2004 onwards. Once home from the event I parked it outside my house and during the night the wiring shorted out causing a fire.
It was a much loved car by me, family, and local car club members. I knew every nut and bolt on it. If events had been different, I would still have it to this day and would have happily loaned it to you.
Looking to buy back my Dad's old Triumph Spitfire.
in Cars For Sale / Wanted
Posted
Hi Eleanor,
Thank you to TheScrapman who flagged your story to me and who appears to have a photographic memory for number plates.
I bought the Spitfire from your father, I think I bought it in Hemel Hempstead, or somewhere nearby in Hertfordshire.
I had owned several Spitfires previously, and discussed with my brother what my ultimate Spitfire would be - a MkIII with 2500cc straight six engine and GT6 suspension - exactly what your father had for sale! It was a bit rough in places, but went like a rocket!
It was indeed British Racing Green at the time and had obviously seen a lot of previous enjoyment.
Over seven years, I replaced the bonnet, gearbox, bumpers, wheels, hood, doors and many other parts. The beautiful bespoke interior was trimmed by Cliff - who you occasionally see on Car SOS.
Once the bodywork was done, in 1997 I had it painted Jaguar regency red (burgundy) and absolutely loved the car. It even won a concours prize at the TSSC national.
I'm afraid the story does not end well. In 2002 I took it France as a reconnaissance for the events that TheScrapman (Colin) and I went on to run at the Le Mans Classic from 2004 onwards. Once home from the event I parked it outside my house and during the night the wiring shorted out causing a fire.
It was a much loved car by me, family, and local car club members. I knew every nut and bolt on it. If events had been different, I would still have it to this day and would have happily loaned it to you.
Philip Willcocks