Austin-Healey Sprite MkIV

The original 1958 ‘Frogeye’ Sprite was such a huge success that BMC continued to develop the car over the next dozen years, even launching a parallel MG version badged as the Midget.

The MkIV version arrived in 1966 with a more luxurious interior and, most importantly, a twin carb 1275cc version of the proven A-Series engine, which it shared with other BMC sporting models such as the Mini Cooper S. With 65bhp on tap it could propel the little Sprite to a top speed of 94mph – although these cars are such fun to drive you always feel you are going twice as fast as you really are! Another major improvement was the addition of a proper folding hood – previous models making do with a separate hood cover and frame which had to be stowed away in the boot.

First registered in Surrey in February 1968, this particular Sprite has been in the current ownership for the last 12 years. Always well-maintained throughout that time, there are bills for a new headgasket and engine decoke in 2009, four new tyres and new king pins in 2011 and a new hood in 2001. Indeed there are various other bills showing regular maintenance back to the 1980s.

Regularly waxoiled and used in fine weather only, the car remains in good sound condition throughout and is said to drive beautifully. Taxed until the end of June and MOTd until August, it is ready to drive away today.