Austin-Healey

In May 1958 the Austin-Healey Sprite was announced to the press in Monte Carlo, two days after that year's Monaco Grand Prix. It was intended to be a low-cost model, designed by the Donald Healey Motor Company, with production being undertaken at the MG factory at Abingdon. Because its headlights were prominently mounted on top of the bonnet, inboard of the front wings, the Sprite quickly became affectionately known as the "frogeye".

In May 1961 the Mark II was announced. It had the same 948 cc engine, but with larger carburettors, increasing power to 46.5 bhp. The bodywork was completely revamped, with the headlights migrating to a more conventional position in the wings, either side of a full-width grille and a conventional bonnet. An MG version of the car was introduced in May 1961 as 'the new Midget". In October 1962 the engine of both cars was increased to 1,098 cc.

In March 1964 the Mark III entered the market. A new curved-glass windscreen was introduced with hinged quarterlights and wind-up side windows. Exterior door handles were provided for the first time, with separate door locks. The rear suspension was modified which gave a more comfortable ride. 

The next upgrade was presented at the London Motor Show in October 1966. Besides receiving the larger 1,275 cc engine (which disappointed enthusiasts by being in a lower state of tune than that of the Mini-Cooper S), the Mark IV and its cousin the Mark III MG Midget had several changes which were more than cosmetic. Most notable is the change from a removable convertible top, which had to be stowed in the boot, to a permanently affixed, folding top of greatly improved design, which was much easier to use. Separate brake and clutch master cylinders were fitted, as car manufacturers' thoughts began to turn to making their products safer. A facelift was carried out for the 1970 model year, after Austin-Healey (and MG) became part of British Leyland. These largely cosmetic revision were to update the appearance of the car (now 10 years old) and minimise the difference between the Sprite and Midget versions to reduce production costs. In 1971 the Austin-Healey brand was discontinued, the MG Midget remained in production until 1980.