Beschreibung:

First introduced at Monte Carlo by the British Motor Corporation (BMC) on the 20 May1958 and intended as a low-cost model, the Sprite was designed by the Donald Healey Motor Company, which received a royalty payment from the manufacturers BMC. The low cost of £669 was achieved by using a mildly tuned version of the A Series engine and as many other components from existing cars as possible. Manufactured at the MG sports car factory at Abingdon, it was not surprising that the success of the design would lead to an MG version, this was known as the Midget. These cars, the Sprites and MG Midgets are often now known as ""Spridgets"". The final version of the Austin Healey Sprite arrived in 1966, as the Mk IV. The new model now used a twin carb 1275cc version of the proven A Series engine, which it shared with other BMC models such as the Mini Cooper S. Another major improvement was the addition of a folding hood; previous models consisted of a separate hood cover and frame. In 1969 a ""British Leyland"" makeover was applied to the Sprite, consisting of matt black paint on the sills, Rostyle wheels and a plastic front grille. Between 1969 and 1970, the Austin Healey name disappeared and all cars were now sold as Austin Sprites. This Sprite Mk. IV 1275cc car has undergone extensive restoration and was completed in 2007. It has only completed 750 miles since. Works included; a rebuilt engine by JMD Power with gas flowed head and performance manifold and a Hardy Engineering rebuilt gearbox. The Suspension and brakes have been rebuilt with new springs, master cylinders, starter motor, solenoid, radiator, battery, carpets, hood, tyres, refurbished Rostyle wheels and a stainless steel exhaust. The body and chassis areas have been treated for rust in all areas and repaired where required. The chassis has been waxoyled and throughout the underneath has been de-rusted, treated, painted and undersealed with modern products. The coachwork has been finished to a high standard in Tartan Red with the work being carried out by a Mercedes approved paint shop. In addition; there is a tonneau and hood bag supplied with the car. An inspection of this little Sprite both on top and underneath will confirm its condition. She presents very well, looking smart in the Tartan Red livery. The current owner assures us that the car will have a new MoT test certificate and road fund license prior to the sale. Smart Sprites are becoming hard to find, so this looks an ideal opportunity within which to enjoy the summer months.