Sprite timeline

1958 MKI

BMC raids its parts bin for A35 bits – including A-series engine in 46bhp twin carburettor form – plus Morris Minor steering and MG clutch/ master cylinder. Simple unitary construction keeps price (£678 17s) and weight (664kg) low. Affordability and zesty performance sees 49,616 sold in just three years. Protruding headlights earn the model its ‘Frogeye’ nickname in the UK, ‘Bugeye’ in the US.

1961 MKII

Mechanically identical to its predecessor, it’s goodbye to the ‘frog eyes’ but hello, to an opening boot, although there are still no door handles or locks. Badge-engineered doppelganger MG Midget has a different grille. Front brakes are upgraded to discs in 1962 and there’s a more powerful 55bhp, 1098cc engine.

1964 MKIII

The third iteration is still powered by the 1098cc A-series, but it’s now fitted with larger main bearings for improved engine longevity. There’s also a marginal power hike of 3bhp. The doors now have external handles. Other changes include wind-up windows and a new fascia, plus semi-elliptic rear springs in place of the earlier quarter-elliptics for an improved ride quality.

1966 MKIV

Tuned 1275cc A-series engine raises power to a heady 65bhp and a proper convertible hood replaces the stow-away item. A 1969 facelift brings Rostyle wheels, black sills and grille, new badging and quarter-bumpers rather than full width. British Leyland’s association with the Healey badge ends, so the final 1022 are sold as Austin Sprites. Production ends in 1971 but Midgets are built until 1980.