Description
This beautifully restored Austin Healey ‘Frogeye’ Sprite MKI has arrived with us in exceptional condition. Immediately on arrival it was noted the car has an outstanding, straight bodyshell with a lovely deep, Pale Blue paint finish. An underbody inspection reveals a beautifully finished, body colour underside, the engine compartment is impressive and with beautifully finished upholstery and full weather equipment its clear this car has been rebuilt to a very high standard. USJ 826 has also proven to be an incredibly usable car, MOT records confirm the Frogeye has covered 30, 000 miles since 1979 and since major restoration work the mileage has been closer to 20, 000.
USJ 826 was manufactured on the 18th March 1959 and sold new out in the Middle East. The destination dealer in 1959 was in Kuwait so the car spent its early life in a dry climate. In 1979 at 20 years old the Austin Healey Sprite was flown from Kuwait to London by Trans-Mediterranean Airways. A Company Waybill Tag with the slogan TMA Air Cargo, Flown First Class has been kept with the car, including photos of the car ahead of been flown to the UK. An impressive log from 1979 to 1998 has been kept recording restoration and service work, maintenance and upkeep.
From 2003 the Sprite MKI spent 20 years with one owner and a comprehensive file of invoices are on file. Whilst in relatively regular use, the car was subject to an engine rebuild, gearbox rebuild and a detailed mechanical overhaul. Over this period the car has been re-painted, had detailed cosmetic attention and as result presents as a beautifully kept, superbly restored car. Having had trimming work, new weather equipment, brightwork and ongoing upkeep the car presents beautifully and on the road USJ 826 is equally impressive with a strong, fit engine, smooth gearbox an handles superbly in typical Frogeye fashion.
