Description
AH Frogeye: Nut & Bolt Rebuild/ Fascinating Story
The “Frogeye” Sprite was announced to the press at the Monaco GP in May 1958. Manufactured at the MG Factory it was the first volume production car in the world to use unitary construction and the result was a superb car with engaging performance and go-kart handling for the princely sum of £699.
At Milestones we see hundreds of classics and occasionally a car comes onto our radar that takes careful negotiation and time for an owner to trust us with his pride and joy – this was the case last year when we first marketed the Healey. Owned for over 30 years and with a fascinating story the little Frogeye was well worth the wait…..
In the 1960’s the highly respected engineer Jim Rose worked with Alan Mann Racing preparing a variety of cars including the iconic, front wheel lifting, red and gold Lotus Cortina’s raced by the team.
By the early 1970’s Jim had decided to leave Alan Mann along with Jim Morgan and Rod Manester to form JoMoRo. The guys put their extensive motorsport expertise towards manufacturing a racing car for children based on a 2/ 3 sized replica F1 car for 5-to-10-year old’s and capable of speeds up to 45mph – what could possibly go wrong?
Unfortunately, the fuel crisis plus a factory fire put pay to the team’s ambitions and Jim went his own way setting up a race preparation and restoration business. Enter our AH Frogeye Sprite.
In 1991 the previous owner, a close associate of Jim Rose, was looking for a fun sports car and spotted the restoration going through Jim’s workshop and a deal was done.
Summary of Work - Restoration:
· Car completed dis-assembled
· Paint stripped revealing a super sound shell
· No welding required and painted in company trademark silver
· Engine reconditioned
· Gearbox replaced (correct smooth case)
· Hood & Interior renewed
· Disc brakes and wire wheels fitted
Summary of Recent Work
· Front callipers & pads
· Master cylinder
· Rear wheel bearings/ brake shoes
· Ignition system
· Battery
The history file contains MOT’s back to 1972, DVLA letter from 1978, invoices and the V5 shows just two previous owners.
The enthusiast who purchased the Healey from Milestones last year has loved his time with the car but, after much thought, has decided to part-exchange her for the AC Special racer that we recently marketed.
The Healey is one of the sharpest/ best driving Frogeyes that you could wish to own – Jamie absolutely loves her. The 30-year restoration has mellowed perfectly (still body colour underneath) and she drives bang on. The car also featured on the cover of Eric Dymock’s book ‘Sprite & Midgets – A Collectors Guide'.
We recommend early viewing and a test drive to fully appreciate this stunning classic. We don’t think you will be disappointed.
