Highlights
- The iconic Frogeye in largely original condition
- Engine bored to 998cc ‘Mini Spec’
- In previous ownership for 20 years
The Appeal
Perhaps one of the most iconic motors to ever roll out of Austin’s Abingdon plant, the Mk1 Sprite wasn’t in production for a long time - but it was all it needed. With a compact, curvy little body and plenty of MG Midget characteristics, these little cars and their smiley appearance have made for an utterly endearing British classic.
This example comes to us in very good order, having been restored by its previous owner, and was originally intended as a wedding hire vehicle. While the attractive retro aesthetics and colour scheme are there, the passenger space proved a challenge - meaning it's now offered for sale.
The History and Paperwork
- Sadly we know little about the history of this car
- Purchased by current owner in 2022
- In previous ownership for 20 years
- Restored in 2019 with over £6,000 spent
- Indicates 27,012 miles on a five-figure odometer and we're unsure of the genuine mileage
- Good selection of invoices for past mechanical work
- Selection of previous MOTs
- Car is now MOT exempt
- Last recorded MOT in 2012
The Interior
- Nicely presented, this Frogeye comes in excellent period condition
- Red vinyl seats with whited piped detailing
- Seats appear to be free of rips and tears, with some scuffs to the front of the bolsters
- Matching door pouches have some scuffs but otherwise are solid
- Fabric door straps have lost some of their leatherette
- Dashboard has clear bubbling underneath its vinyl covering
- Paintwork on the inner doors is in poor condition with marks and mismatched patching
- Instruments are clear and nicely presented
- Red carpets are in fair condition with some wear
- Rear bench is in fair order with some marking
- Excitingly, this car appears to be carrying its original Bakelite steering wheel - a rare sight
- Ultimately, a solid interior that may demand some extra work to reach concourse levels
The Exterior
- Nicely presented Nevada Beige paintwork shows very few signs of wear
- Some rough edging on the nearside A pillar
- Light marks and chips to the paintwork behind the front bumper
- Some marking to the sills
- Some light bubbling to the brake lights
- Some cracking to the paintwork on the rear right-hand bumper
- Chromework is brightly presented with smatterings of patina
- The car’s distinctive frog-eye lamps are clean and well-presented
- This also applies to the characteristic ‘smiley’ grille
- The car is sitting on a full set of chromed AH initial wheels
- Wheels could do with some restoration
- Shod in a good set of Firestone tyres with plenty of tread
- Underneath, the car is in good order with no clear issues
- Some surface corrosion but very minor throughout
The Mechanics
- Engine rebuilt during restoration in 2019
- A-series Austin I4 has been built into a 998cc ‘Mini Spec’ engine
- 4-speed manual transmission
- Engine looks in good order with standard signs of wear
- No reports of leaks or mechanical faults from the vendor
- Car is reportedly starting, accelerating and shifting as expected
Summary
A good, solid and well-restored example, this attractive Frogeye is a great example of the legendary British sports car - perhaps one of the most iconic cars ever built in Britain. If you’ve never taken on one of these quirky, characterful classics, it’s the perfect time!
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
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