The sharp looking, Michelotti styled, Vitesse 6 first appeared in May 1962, featuring a 1600 cc, six-cylinder engine. Proving popular, it remained in production until 1966 when replaced with the Vitesse 2 Litre – the principal change being the use of an enlarged version of the six-cylinder engine. With only minor revisions to the appearance of the car, the powertrain received an all-synchromesh gearbox; stronger clutch; stronger differential; larger front brakes and wider 4.5-inch wheel rims. With power now up to a claimed 95 bhp, it was capable of topping 100 mph.

This model remained in production until October 1968, when replaced by the Vitesse Mk II. The engine developed a few more bhp, reducing the 0–60 mph acceleration time, but the key improvement was to the rear suspension. The solid swing axles of the earlier Vitesse models were revised with the fitment of new lower wishbones and Rotoflex half-shaft couplings. This gave improved handling and roadholding at higher speeds.

The Vitesse was discontinued in July 1971, by which time just over 9,000 had been built – with a little under 3,500 convertibles in this number.

This 1969 Mk II Vitesse convertible was first registered in the UK, before moving to Jersey in the mid-70’s, to the god daughter of the first owner. Remaining within the same family ownership, it moved back to the UK in 2005 and then returned to Jersey again in 2012. We have MOT records between 2005 and 2012, confirming the low recorded mileage. Under the custodianship of a new owner in 2017, the Vitesse was lightly used, garaged and serviced annually. We acquired the car in 2023.