The Triumph Spitfire is the car that introduces most people to British sports cars because it's small, simple, and inexpensive to acquire. Whether it keeps them in British sports cars depends on what they find when they get there.

The Spitfire's swing-axle rear suspension is the defining characteristic. In stock form, with the geometry set correctly and the car loaded appropriately, it handles well. Pushed hard into a corner with the throttle lifted suddenly, it demonstrates the classic oversteer behavior of a swing-axle car in a way that's educational and occasionally exciting.

The Mk4 and 1500 cars are the best for a driver — improved engines, better gearboxes, and suspension refinements that address the handling issues. The earlier cars are more original but require more understanding to drive quickly. Find a dry-climate car and enjoy the process.