Healey [2]

This British marque originated with I.P.I. Motors of Cowes, Isle of Wight, a company better known for its motor caravan conversions. It was announced at the 1997 London Motor Show as the developer of a replica based on the Austin-Healey Sprite Mk1.

The project soon passed to another firm, based in Maidenhead, Berkshire, which announced plans to build fifty examples under the "Healey" name. This immediately led to disputes over the unauthorised use of the name. Production later continued under the Healey Sprite Motor Co. at Newport, Isle of Wight.

The replica featured fibreglass bodywork with a boot lid, mounted on a modern stainless steel monocoque chassis with all-independent suspension. It was initially powered by a 1.8-litre Isuzu engine, with a Ford Zetec 1.8-litre unit added as an option by 1998. Two versions were offered: a classic model with leather upholstery, and a sports model fitted with bucket seats and a roll-over bar.

The company also worked on another project called the Workhorse, a 4x4 utility vehicle based on the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen. With production reportedly running at six units per week, the company expressed hopes of establishing licensed production in Bulgaria, Israel, and the United States.