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Overview
One of the sensations of the 1952 Motor Show was a two-seat sports car designed by Donald Healey. Before the show was over the British Motor Corporation had struck a deal to mass produce the car, and the Austin-Healey was born. The car, called the 100, was a huge success, offering sporting motorists the affordable car that they had been waiting for. In 1956 the Healey was fitted with a six-cylinder unit, creating the 100-Six, and in 1959 this car was developed into the most famous of them all - the 3000. These cars have become known as the Big Healeys, and they were joined in 1958 by the Sprite. Designed around standard components, the Sprite set out to recreate the market for the cheap 'everyman's' sports car. Distinguished by characterful headlights, it was nicknamed the 'Frog-eye' (or 'Bug-eye' in the US), and the little car was a big success, remaining in production until 1971, albeit in more conventionally styled form from 1961. This concise illustrated history of Austin-Healey, and the marque's success on road, rally stage and track, will appeal to all lovers of this, the quintessential British sports car.