The Spitfire is going up for auction April 20, so there's not a lot of time to kick the tires, if that's what one does to a WWII warbird. Here's the press release: "estimated value £1.5 million." More:
Today, this Spitfire is being offered as a freshly-completed ‘zero-hours’ ground-up restoration to perfect two-seat TR Mark IX specification; in effect an historic warbird absolutely ready-to-fly and in truly sparkling flightline condition. Originally it was a single-seat Mark IX but it now offers a new owner the attractive extra accommodation and flexibility of the two-seat trainer variant.
This would make a nice addition to the CAF collection if there's money like that available in these hard times. If so, it would be a real crowd pleaser. There's a CAF wing with a two-seat Mustang P-51 making the air show rounds offering rides for a fee. And they have people lining up to ride in it, at least they did when I road it in '05. (See A Wild Ride for a report about that experience.)
The Spitfire could be a real money maker for some lucky buyer. Dig deep, CAF Colonels. The West Texas sky needs a Spitfire.
UPDATED: The Spitfire sold for £1,739,500 on 4/20/09.
I forwarded your link to Bill Coombes, President, CAF. Perhaps we could have a bake sale, wash a few cars and buy it!!
Posted by: Wallace | April 09, 2009 at 11:17 PM
A bake sale! What a great idea, Wallace. I'm in for a plate of brownies.
Posted by: Geo | April 10, 2009 at 05:57 AM
Wanting to purchase one, please reply if any thing available, I will give a offer of 2 million U.S. if can get it as soon as possible
Posted by: Joker | December 19, 2011 at 06:26 PM