Highlights
- Comprehensive photographic restoration with large file of receipts
- Original factory colour scheme of Iris Blue with blue trim
- Reportedly described by Bill Rawles as “one of the best Frogeye Sprites” in around 2016.
- Original RHD UK car with steel bonnet
- Current MOT until October 2026
The Appeal
The "Frogeye" is one of Britain's most beloved and characterful sports cars. Compact, lightweight, and headed by a novel, friendly face, they're one of the most celebrated of the British sports cars, with agile performance that remains particularly fun, even compared to its other English contemporaries - and thanks to the familiar Austin parts library, it's easy to look after, too.
The previous owner thoroughly restored this car in 2006, beginning with a replacement wiring loom before progressing to a complete strip-down. The car was shot-blasted back to bare metal, received all necessary welding repairs, and spent six weeks in a bodyshop before being meticulously refitted with reconditioned components. This restoration still holds up very well - it's an excellent example.
History and Paperwork
- First registered in the UK on 18th May 1960
- Has had 5 former registered keepers in total, with the current registered keeper owning the car since 2016
- MOT valid until October 2026
- Comes with Heritage certificate and original buff logbook
- Comprehensive photographic album documenting the restoration process
- Large file of receipts for parts used during restoration
The Condition
- Presented in original factory colour scheme of Iris Blue exterior with blue trim and black hood
- Colour was changed from grey back to original Iris Blue on 22/04/1993
- Fully restored in 2006
- Steel bonnet
- 4 matching Michelin tyres
- Comes with Works Style hardtop
- Includes sidescreens, soft-top and tonneau cover
- Retrimmed interior appears in smart condition
- Fitted with a period-appropriate Moto-Lita steering wheel
- Equipped with vintage fire extinguisher
- Spare wheel present and correct
The Mechanics
- 1,098cc A-Series 4-cylinder engine (upgraded from original 948cc)
- 4-speed manual transmission
- Reconditioned engine and gearbox fitted during restoration
- Twin SU carburettors
- Stainless steel performance exhaust system
- Electronic ignition
- Uprated with polybushes
- Uprated leaf springs
- The vendor reports some gentle oil leaks, but no other known mechanical defects
- The vendor has stated the vehicle has had little use of late, so a good service and check over is advised before any journey
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