Graham Robson in his book 'Triumph Spitfire and GT6', gives details in the final
chapter about 'sideways' developments of the Spitfire line. He states that by
1973 it was recognised that the Midget did not produce enough power (due to the
restrictions imposed by the US emission requirements) and a larger engine was
required. The BMC A-series used in the Midgets at the time had been bored out
to their maximum 1275cc in 1964, so an alternative was required. The Spit 1500
was introduced to the North American market in 1973. Despite the obvious
problem that the exhaust and inlets were on the opposite side, the Spit engine
fitted into the Midget engine bay quite easily.
Production started late 1974 for the 1975 model year vehicles. Production
ceased at the end of 1979 although unsold cars were still available new until
mid 1981.
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Subject: Spitfires, Midgets and forklifts
Author: npenney@concentric.net at INTERNET-PO Date: 24/01/97 23:23
I understand the Midgets at some point started using the same 1500
engine as Spitfires. With a mysteriously superior big end rod bearing.
And that this same engine is now known as a Continental, and resides
within many forklifts.
As this is all a vague and murky mystery to me, could any of you shed
some light on this and let me see my way?
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