UK vs UK — 1962 vs 1962
| Spitfire Mk IV 1500 | Vitesse 2-Litre Mk2 Convertible | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 71 hp | 95 hp |
| Torque | 85 lb-ft | 113 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,493 cc | 1,998 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.2 sec | 11.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 100 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 19.0 sec | 18.2 sec |
| Weight | 1,680 lbs | 2,072 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,108 mm | 2,311 mm |
| Length | 3,759 mm | 3,886 mm |
| Units Produced | 314,332 | 51,212 |
| Original MSRP | $2,749 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $22,000 | $45,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 5/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1962 Triumph Spitfire Mk IV 1500 offers lighter weight, better value, while the 1962 Triumph Vitesse 2-Litre Mk2 Convertible counters with more power, quicker acceleration, greater rarity. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
Within the Triumph stable, the 1962 Triumph Spitfire Mk IV 1500 and 1962 Triumph Vitesse 2-Litre Mk2 Convertible represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Triumph badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1962 Triumph Vitesse 2-Litre Mk2 Convertible holds a clear advantage in raw power with 95 hp compared to 71 hp, a 24-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Triumph Spitfire uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,493 cc, while the Triumph Vitesse relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 1,998 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1962 Triumph Vitesse 2-Litre Mk2 Convertible edges ahead at 11.9 seconds versus 13.2 seconds. The Triumph Spitfire carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 392 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 51,212 units built, the 1962 Triumph Vitesse 2-Litre Mk2 Convertible is considerably scarcer than the Triumph Spitfire's 314,332 examples.