Triumph Spitfire: The Car Designed In Secret.
A New Documentary Written and Presented by Matthew Walker
Triumph Spitfire: A British Classic Reimagined.
In this beautifully crafted short documentary, presenter and filmmaker Matthew Walker explores the remarkable story behind one of Britain’s most beloved classic cars — the Triumph Spitfire.
From its clandestine beginnings in a Coventry factory to its rise as a global symbol of accessible driving pleasure, the film captures the charm, character, and cultural significance of a car that was never about performance alone — but about how it made people feel. Blending history with personal reflection, the film is both a tribute and a time capsule, celebrating a machine designed not for profit, but for joy.
About Presenter, Matthew Walker
Matthew Walker is a British presenter, writer, and documentary filmmaker known for his ability to tell human stories with warmth, wit, and precision. With a background in history and a love for British culture, Matthew’s work spans topics ranging from heritage landmarks to motoring icons. His previous documentary, Goodison Park: The Grand Old Lady, offered a moving tribute to Everton Football Club’s legendary home and garnered praise for its storytelling and emotional depth.
Whether on screen or in voiceover, his distinctive tone and considered narrative style bring depth and accessibility to every subject he explores.
The History of the Triumph Spitfire
The Triumph Spitfire was born not in a boardroom, but in secret — created by a small group of engineers working after hours in the late 1950s. Using the Herald chassis as a base, they envisioned a small, stylish sports car that could compete with rivals like the MG Midget and Austin-Healey Sprite. Their efforts went unnoticed until British Leyland acquired Triumph in 1960 and discovered the prototype hidden under a dustsheet.
Recognising its potential, management fast-tracked it into production. Styled by famed Italian designer Giovanni Michelotti, the Spitfire made its debut at the 1962 Earls Court Motor Show to acclaim. Its elegant lines, low-slung driving position, and affordable price made it an instant hit with the British public.
Over the next 18 years, five major versions were released — from the Mk1 through to the final Spitfire 1500. Each variant brought refinements in styling, performance, and comfort. The one-piece bonnet, flip-forward design, and its rev-happy engine became defining features.
By the time production ended in 1980, more than 314,000 Spitfires had been built, many of them exported to the United States. Today, only a fraction remain on British roads, making the Spitfire a rare and increasingly cherished classic — a symbol of British ingenuity, post-war optimism, and the enduring appeal of analogue motoring.
Watch the Documentary
The full film is available to watch on YouTube.
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Whether you're a classic car enthusiast, a nostalgic petrolhead, or simply someone who loves a good story, this short film promises to entertain, inform, and maybe even inspire you to get behind the wheel of something a little older — and a lot more soulful.
What Documentary Would You Like To See?
If you enjoyed the documentary, please like, comment, and subscribe on YouTube.
Your engagement helps independent films like this reach a wider audience and makes future storytelling possible. If there’s a documentary film you’d like to see, please drop Matthew at email, matthew@thestandoutcompany.com
Contact
Matthew Walker is available for presenting, hosting, voiceover, and documentary commissions.
For all professional enquiries, including press features or media appearances relating to The Grand Old Lady, please contact:
Email: matthew@thestandoutcompany.com
Call: 0207 088 8085
Website: www.matthewwalker.tv
Instagram: @matthewwalkertv
YouTube Channel: matthewwalker-tv