Austin-Healey Frogeye Sprite

Designed by Donald Healey in partnership with BMC, the MkI Sprite was launched in 1958 and proved such a hit that it spawned a whole generation of copycat sportscars from the likes of Triumph and MG. 

Based around humble A35 underpinnings it combined the A35's independent front suspension, four-speed gearbox and quarter elliptic leaf-sprung back axle with the Morris Minor's direct rack-and-pinion steering. Powered by a twin-carb 948cc A-series four-cylinder engine developing some 43bhp and 52lb/ft of torque, it was capable of over 80mph.

The Sprite inspired huge public affection due to its lively road manners and cute 'Frogeye' styling by Gerry Coker and Les Ireland – a happy accident that only came about because the pop-up headlights that the car was designed for proved too costly to mass produce and were changed at the last minute to the fixed pods that so define the car today.

Eminently tunable, the Sprite was developed into a formidable competition car and won many trophies in the hands of both works drivers and privateers. Some 49,987 examples were sold before it was replaced by the somewhat less characterful MkII in 1961.

Dating from 1959, this particular Frogeye spent most of its life in America but returned to these shores from California in 1987. Being offered here from a deceased estate, it has had just one owner for the last 18 years. The car is said to be in good condition throughout with excellent panel fit and has been uprated with front disc brakes and wire wheels.

Currently taxed and due to have a fresh MOT before the sale, it is said to drive beautifully and is ready for immediate use.