Restoring 1970 MK III

Hi all,
I'm new to the forum, but I just wanted to get some input from some the more experienced Spitfire enthusiast. My Dad who has been restoring classic cars for 25+ yrs is the main driving force in this process. but I really just wnated to hear what others have done to their Spitfire's during this process. we are basicly looking for a salvage car for underneath( a Honda Civic, Del Sol, Mazda Miata, VW Jetta) something with a small but powerful engine. I was wandering if any of you have done this and if so how did it turn out?
on the outside my car will look completely stock, except for a little bigger wheel opening.
I would just really like to know what everyone else has done to their Spitfire's.
-Beccer

Hi beccer my spit had all triumph bits on i got 115bhp from the 1500 motor and just used uprated springs an poly bushes. Low gearing is the key to an exiting ride i had a gt6 mk1 close ratio box and mk1 spit dif good for 115mph at 6000rpm and good 0-60 times. with fibre glass panels it was only 720kg, good fun without all the hassel of changing all the chassie.