1971' Austin

In December 1970, BL's association with The Donald Healey Corporation ceased and thus the final 1022 Sprites built between January and July 1971 were badged as "Austin Sprites". This is one of that batch from which around 300 are believed to still be in existence.

Registered midway through September, it could well be one of the final few produced. These AAN10 numbered Austin Sprites are, understandably, the rarest of the entire range.

This old girl is in lovely condition and is a superb performer on the open road. She was restored in the late 90s and has been treated to many new parts since. She has completed the Carrera Caledonia Rally in Scotland and been taken on a tour of Northern Ireland. She was also exhibited at the Spridget celebrations at Gaydon I 2008 and at the MG 50 event at Burghley House in 2011.

She has a black hard top as well as the normal hood. She has an MoT until April 2018 and is a really sound as well as pretty example. As an older restoration, I would describe her as currently being probably in the Condition Two-plus region with capabilities to move quite smoothly into being Condition One. It's merely that some really small areas have a little paint chipped off etc but I am being picky. Were you to have an aerosol matched to the body's delightful shade of blue, you could probably eradicate 90 per cent of these minor cosmetics in one fell swoop as the bulk of these small bits are around the outer sill panels.

I am pitching her at a price to sell as I prefer a swift turnaround with all my classics. I am sure she will delight her new owner.

I accept all major debit/credit cards and a ten per cent deposit is required at the point of sale with the balance due within three days. I can also assist with delivery and so please ask for a quote.

All my classic cars are treated as the equivalent of motoring antiques. This one, for example, is 46-years-old. They cannot be compared to the wife's six-month-old Chelsea tractor and they are bound to come with imperfections, quirks and bits and pieces that will need attention even if it is some time in the future. They do however come with oodles of charm, appeal and are there to be loved like a family pet. If you are new to the classic car scene, then please bear all this in mind. Demand is outstripping supply these days and they don't make the old girls any more. So, make some allowances and drive away with a smile on your face! Thanks for reading, Martin. (07595-020282).