The Sprite was always a survivor
In the beginning, only the Frogeye design, badged Austin Healey Sprite, went on sale in 1958. The Sprite gradually evolved with BMC's Syd Enever penning a new rear end with luggage boot lid, headlights in a proper  position and even more powerful engines. By the time it had reached the MKIV, both the MG and Austin Healey versions were known to everybody as the Spridgets and were still selling well, even though they had not lost there link with the original Healey design.

Enever managed to retain the original 80-inch wheelbase floorpan in his revamp, but BMC responded to market demand with the addition of carpets everywhere, a redesigned dashboard, parcel shelf and thicker seats. Wind-up windows, half-elliptic rear suspension, disc front brakes and quarter-lights had already been added to fend off the menace of its arch rival, the Triumph Spitfire.

In 1966 the Sprite's engine capacity went up to 1275cc and much more sophisticated hood made a trip to the pub a less risky business if the heavens opened up, as it was much quicker to erect. What remained a constant factor throughout the series was the fun factor that made the Sprite one of the all time affordable great's.

Healey or MG

Only the Frogeye design, badged Austin Healey Sprite, went on sale in 1958. The basic design featured a BMC A-series engine, gearbox and rear axle, with a modified A35 front suspension, and cantilever leaf spring rear suspension. Pressed steel made the chunky little monocock , which had no external boot access, and where the entire front end-bonnet, nose and front wings lifted up for engine access. From 1961 the structure was restyled, with a conventional front end, with a boot lid and a choice of Austin Healey or MG badges.

USA
For the next ten years, two near identical cars were produced at the Abingdon factory. The Austin Healey franchise came to an end in late 1970, and the MG Midget came through on top. When the car had to have a face lift for the USA market, huge black bumpers and a 1500 Triumph engine was fitted due to new US legislation in 1975. Production came to an end in 1979.

Prices
When the Frogeye went on sale in 1958, the cost was £679 but when the MG Midget was introduced prices increased a little to £669. The MG Midget sold at £660.
Prices increased even more when in 1967 the 1275cc engine was introduced, £672 for the Sprite and £684 for the Midget