Very early production example, manufactured in September 1958
Interesting RAF provenance — originally delivered to the officers' mess at RAF Valley, Anglesey
Extensively restored and given a bare metal respray
Only two former registered keepers
Accompanied by a British Heritage certificate and microfilm print of the original 1959 warranty document
The Appeal
The Mark 1 Austin-Healey Sprite, affectionately known as the 'Frogeye', is one of the most charming and recognisable British sports cars of the post-war era, thanks in no small part to its amiable 'smiley' design and lightweight, tight-handling chassis. Designed by the Douglas Healey Motor Company and built at the MG factory in Abingdon, it was conceived as an affordable, lightweight roadster that could be kept "in a chap's bike shed" - and it has since become one of the most sought-after small sports cars of its generation.
This particular example is a very early car, manufactured on 1 September 1958 and first registered on 2 April 1959. Its original delivery destination adds a wonderful layer of provenance, having been sent to the officers' mess at RAF Valley in Anglesey.
Having passed through just two former registered keepers before entering its current ownership in October 2015, it has been in the same hands for over a decade. During that time, it has undergone a comprehensive restoration, which still carries very well some time later. This is a simply superb example that's loaded with character, ticking plenty of boxes for the dedicated enthusiast. image.png1.18 MB
Paperwork: British Heritage certificate, original delivery document from Jones Bros Ltd, microfilm print of original 1959 Warranty Document, insurance valuation report
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