🏷️ Basic Information
Identification
Make:
Triumph
Model:
Spitfire
Year:
1972
Codes
Model Code:
Mk IV (Facelift)
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Vehicle Segment:
Compact two-seater convertible sports car
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
MG Midget, Datsun Fairlady, Fiat 850 Spider
Key Features
Design Philosophy:
Affordable, lightweight, fun-to-drive British sports car
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive technical data for enthusiasts undertaking repairs and restoration
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
Full Service and Repair
Page Count
Estimated Pages:
Varies by edition, typically 400+
Manual Type
Type:
Workshop Manual / Service Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
File Format:
PDF
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine:
1296cc OHV Inline-4 (Standard)
Fuel System:
Carburetion (SU HS2 or Stromberg CD150)
Cooling System:
Water-cooled, pressurized system
Exhaust System:
Single exhaust, catalytic converter may be present depending on market
Transmission:
4-speed Manual (with optional Overdrive on some models)
Clutch:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate
Brakes:
Front Disc, Rear Drum
Suspension Front:
Independent, transverse leaf spring, wishbones, telescopic dampers
Suspension Rear:
Live axle, trailing arms, Panhard rod, coil springs, telescopic dampers
Steering:
Rack and Pinion
Electrical System:
12-volt negative earth
Wiring Diagrams:
Included, comprehensive
Bodywork:
Body-on-chassis construction, convertible sportscar
Interior:
Seats, dashboard, trim, instrumentation
Body And Chassis:
Frame inspection, repair, body panel alignment
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake servicing, suspension repair, electrical component replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, symptom-based diagnosis
Rebuild:
Complete engine rebuild, gearbox overhaul
Refurbishment:
Bodywork restoration, interior trim replacement
Installation:
Component installation and removal
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics
Detail Level:
Detailed sub-steps, notes, cautions, warnings
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format Type:
PDF
Print Quality
Printable:
Full Printable
Binding Type
Binding:
Digital (Downloadable)
Paper Type
Physical Format:
Not Applicable (Digital)
Delivery
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Requirements
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinRAR
Compatibility
Operating Systems:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
Triumph 1300 (25D4 engine series)
Engine Type:
Inline-4, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Displacement:
1296 cc (79.2 cu in)
Performance
Horsepower Net:
Approx. 75 bhp @ 5500 rpm (US spec)
Torque Net:
Approx. 81 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (US spec)
Fuel System
Carburetor Type:
Twin SU HS2 or Stromberg CD150
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (RON 90 or higher recommended)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
4-speed manual
Optional
Overdrive:
Optional Laycock de Normanville electric overdrive (usually 4th gear)
Features
Gear Ratios:
Typically 3.42:1 (1st), 2.16:1 (2nd), 1.41:1 (3rd), 1.00:1 (4th), 3.45:1 (Reverse)
Fluid Type
Transmission Fluid:
GL4 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., Castrol EPX 80W/90)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 155.5 inches (3950 mm)
Width:
Approx. 58.0 inches (1473 mm)
Height:
Approx. 47.0 inches (1194 mm) (soft top up)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1800-1900 lbs (816-862 kg)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 81.0 inches (2057 mm)
Track Front:
Approx. 47.5 inches (1207 mm)
Track Rear:
Approx. 46.5 inches (1181 mm)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Safety:
No formal crash ratings available from modern standards due to era of manufacture.
Active Features
Brakes:
Front disc brakes with dual hydraulic circuits, rear drum brakes.
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Lap belts typically fitted, shoulder belts optional or market dependent.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Optional aftermarket radio installation. Original cars likely had basic radio or none.
Driver Assistance
Features:
None from factory. Focus is on driver engagement.
Connectivity
Features:
None from factory.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Every 3,000 miles or 6 months
Filter Change:
With every oil change
Tune Up:
Recommended annually or every 6,000 miles
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
20W50 (e.g., Castrol GTX, Penrite HPR 20)
Coolant:
50/50 mix of Ethylene Glycol antifreeze and water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Known Issues
Chassis Corrosion:
Prone to rust in sills, A-panels, wheel arches, and boot floor.
Engine Wear:
Tappet noise, oil leaks from rocker cover and sump.
Gearbox Synchromesh:
Weak synchromesh on second gear, especially in worn gearboxes.
Electrical Reliability:
Wiring harnesses can degrade over time, leading to intermittent electrical faults.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer:
Triumph Motor Company (part of British Leyland at this time)
Model Evolution
Generation:
The 1972 model corresponds to the Mk IV Spitfire, introduced in 1970, featuring significant updates over earlier models.
Design Era:
Styled by Giovanni Michelotti
Production
Production Years:
1962-1980 (Spitfire lineage)
Manufacturing Location:
Coventry, England
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Press:
Generally praised for its handling and affordability as a sports car.
Ratings
Owner Satisfaction:
High among enthusiasts who appreciate classic British sports cars.
Certifications
Manual Quality:
Designed to meet the needs of professional technicians and discerning DIYers.