Triumph indeed produced a 1981 model year Spitfire. While the factory ceased production in August, 1980, 1981 models were produced and badged accordingly. The vast majority of Spitfire's as well most MG's & Triumphs produced, were exported to the US market. Over half of all Spitfire imported were sold in California. When Triumph realized the Spitfire could not meet the California Air Resource Bureau's (CARB) 1982 emission requirements without significant modifications, they decided to pull the plug on Spitfire production. In fact, production of all remaining Triumphs, (TR7& & TR8) ceased in November 1981. A few 1982 model year TR7's & TR'8's were built & exported for the Canadian market, but the US only received 1981 models as final production.