Invidious

Which of these 1960s sporting legends would you rather have in your garage?

Let us know in the comments below or email at classics.ed@kelsey.co.uk and we'll publish our favourite responses here and in next week's issue of Classics World!

Austin-Healey Sprite Mk2 (1962-1964)
By 1962, the Sprite had grown up—sort of. The Mk2 ditched the original’s signature “Frogeye” headlights for a more conventional look, but underneath, it remained a no-frills, driver-focused machine. Its 1,098cc A-Series engine produced a modest 56bhp, but with a curb weight of around 700kg, it was still plenty of fun. Simple, honest, and chuckable, the Sprite was an affordable way to enjoy proper British sports car thrills. It may not have been fast, but on a twisty B-road, it was all about momentum and driver involvement.

Lotus Elan (1962-1975)
The Elan, on the other hand, was a revolution. Colin Chapman’s philosophy of “simplicate, then add lightness” was at its peak here. Fiberglass body, steel backbone chassis, and a screaming twin-cam Ford engine meant the Elan wasn’t just quick (0-60mph in under 8 seconds) but also an absolute scalpel in the bends. With fully independent suspension and featherweight agility, it embarrassed far more powerful machines.