Kyosho 1/18 Scale Austin Healey Sprite, Cherry Red

The Sprite got in the Austin Healey line-up in 1958 as the entry sports car design established by BMC (British Motor Corporation) which existed from 1952 to 1966. Conceived as a little sports car for mass appeal, the minimalist engine and undercarriage were designed to keep expenses down. Weight reduction was also a focus, and the Sprite embraced the world's first semi-monocoque open body. While the 948cc inline 4-cylinder engine output was only 43ps, this sufficed power for the 600kg automobile weight (less than contemporary 'light vehicles'), which was the highest power to weight in its class at the time. Combined with the rack and pinion steering transmission, the extremely responsive Sprite declared the pure delight of driving with a lightweight sports car. Produced from 1958 to 1960, the Mk 1 was the most popular design in the series, which was in production for 13 years through to 1971. The Mk 1 not only embodies the elements of the initial advancement principle of only incorporating parts required for driving performance, but also features a distinct front mask with headlights protruding from the bonnet hood that interested many. This function made the Mk 1 nicknames such as 'crab eyes' in Japan, 'frog-eye' in England, and 'bug-eye' in the United States.

Item Produced: 08/28/2023