Keep him. He's depreciation proof (probably quite the opposite) so he's at least as good as money in the bank. Have you noticed that Fred and the Elise have the same grille?
Yes he’s a tangible investment and in today’s volatile market conditions definitely better than money in the bank. Unless you want to liquidate him for another automotive project which will provide new content for the channel. It would be good if you kept the original engine and other components if somebody wants it matching numbers and stock. That would potentially increase its value as an asset.
I can see your point. Maybe gone too far from the original quaintness. But still a lovely thing with a nice history... Just a shame I don't have a bigger piggy bank
That feeling is well known to many. I have a Nissan Z that I drive 2-300 miles a year and have tried to sell many times. Everytime I start it up and go for a ride and get a little sideways I grin ear to ear and decide to keep it. If you love Fred, keep Fred. Thanks for sharing👍
You’ll regret it I’m sure. You can never justify a classic on normal grounds, they are infinitely crappier than their modern equivalents at most things. However that’s the charm. I really enjoy watching the updates on Fred, maybe you can build in a few more classic events or some shorter road trips in Fred which would help?
I feel your pain. I have had a Citroën 2CV for over 20 years. Some years I don't get to use it much. That's when I start to convince myself that I should sell it. But then I go for a drive, and realize that I come home smiling. At that point, I just gently close the garage door and move on with the rest of life. The heart knows, Jack.....
The second you sell Fred you’ll regret it, you’ll never find another with the history of that car….. Fred isn’t a divers car, he’s a relaxed sunny Sunday afternoon drive……
I have a 61 bugeye sprite with an sbc 383ci, and I love it. Someday, someone else will love it like I do. It's only on loan to me until it's passed on to the next loving owner.
I have great sympathy for you Jack, but I would love to hear that you keep Fred. I now own/drive a 1959 "fast road" frogeye myself. It is brilliantly simple. I love the lack of door handles and lack of boot lid. I love the bug eyes and the rounded tail. I delight in the sounds of the Weber 45 DCOE and the slick changes of the type 9 five speed gearbox, with irresistible blips on down-change thanks to the natural heel-and-toe pedals. However, I too used to own a Series 1 Elise, which had to go when retirement and downsizing became a priority, so I appreciate your dilemma.
We've all been there Jack. Back in 2020, I shipped two 916 series Alfa Romeos from the UK to my new home in western Finland, because I'd put so much of myself into the cars that I couldn't face selling them. It cost me thousands in shipping and the local punitive car tax, but it's been worth it!
I have a mint 1960 Bugeye and I’m keeping it this time, I had so many classic cars and trucks and I always regretted selling it after all the work had been done, a classic cars and modern cars is not the same, much more fun to drive a classic
KEEP IT!!! I have a fondness for Early Sprites. I was 7 in 1959 when my parents came home with a brand-new Bug Eye Sprite and I fell in Love. It mostly became my mom's car (my dad was too tall to fit comfortably). They kept it for a couple of years and then traded it for a slightly used Austin Healey 3000 which my dad could fit in nicely. I was still small enough that the jump seats worked out fine for me on road trips. A pillow and a comforter and I was set to go! My first car at 16 was a not so nice 56 MGA but it was mine!. Needless to say I have a thing for British sport cars. I recently bought a low mileage 77 MGB roadster from an elderly neighbor and am getting it sorted out. A little problem with me getting in/out with the top up but I will probably be 'top down' most of the time weather permitting. Fred is an investment that should keep his value plus he's so tiny he shouldn't be in the way😃
Jack, I know exactly what you mean my MG is the first car I did a full restoration and I still have it 35 years later I don't drive him that much but when I do it really puts a smile on my face -= could never sell! KEEP FRED!!!!!!!!
The more vehicles advance, the more love & respect I have for cars like the Sprite. It serves as representation of what sports cars used to be. Rather than compare them with the performance/handling/safety of today's cars (what few are still being made that aren't SUV's), I simply appreciate them for what they are - and what will never be again. Your emotional struggles are completely understandable, especially given your personal connection to the Sprite's history. That said, though it is a more modern car, much the same could be noted for the Elise (minus the personal connection that is). If you can't afford to keep both, then it makes sense to hang on to the one that would bring you the most driving pleasure. Life is fleeting. At some point no one will be allowed to drive either of these cars out on the road. Then it will basically be the museum or bust for all ICE-based vehicles. Until that point in time comes, I'm of the opinion that such cars are best off under the ownership of someone that will use, care for, and enjoy them while still possible. Hopefully the next owner of the Sprite will cherish it accordingly just as you'll be doing with the Elise. I realize that these are just things, but for many of us they are very special things indeed. Good luck!
Keep it. A ‘60 Bug Eye was my first car & when it ran was truly special. I believe my mechanic had it longer than I did. Keep building those memories and do take charge of preserving a classic.
My grandfather had one of these in the ‘50s and used it to commute into London from Herts, whatever the weather. The tonneau over the passenger seat used to fill with water and slosh everywhere going round corners apparently. Cars were certainly more interesting back then.
Such a hatchet job, Jack... :D :D :D I TOTALLY understand your quandary and how much cars mean to us car guys. I'm sure that Fred will find a great home. Thanks so much for sharing your journey.
I haven't driven an Elise but I did travel in a Sprite as a kid and have fond memories of that era. I would also find it difficult to get rid of Fred and in fact if it had been my car I would have kept it completely original and live with the lack of power. Assuming the original engine was putting out significantly less than when it was new, it could easily be down to under 30bhp and it would have been easy to get the engine back to full power and even slightly more while retaining the originality. I wonder if Jack kept all the original bits as this would enable a new owner to have the option to return it to original spec if desired.
Not a waste of a video at all and actually more emotionally pure and hits closer to the heart than most videos on RUclips ! For me, it is one of your best. If I didn't live across "the pond" I'd buy you a couple beers at the local pub and commiserate. Many of us who truly enjoy cars have similar stories and fully understand and empathize with the emotionally draining position you are in with Fred. I feel your pain, and am reliving some regretted cars sales of my own right now, thanks;) Cars can become like companions, especially when one has wrenched on them hundreds of hours over many years. Perhaps better than companions as I would love a second chance with some of my sold cars; I don't want a single past girlfriend back .... To this day I regret selling a couple cars from my youth. Not because they were great .... or even good cars for that matter. It was the memories I had working on and driving them. Financially, when I was young and just starting out it made sense to get rid of them. I'd gladly pay 20 times what I sold my first car for, but sadly it was totaled a week after selling gone forever. I'm not going to make that mistake with my 2 XKEs and Elise though - my kids can keep them or get rid of them when I'm gone. I'm just not strong enough to sell them. Good luck with your difficult decision on Fred !
I don't know how you could part with Fred just looking at him brings a smile to your face. He's like a beautiful work of art and probably as good an investment.
I first drove a frog eye back in1962a mate of mine bought one..previous to that I'd only drive a Willy's jeep and a Morris j2 pickup truck. What a thrill the Frog was so I fully sympathise with you. You will definitely miss Fred when he's gone. Thanks Jack.
I'm going to be sad to see him go. He was the reason I found your channel after I became an MG Midget owner. I can't say that the Midget was my first choice when looking for a classic car but I instantly fell in love. The brakes are a bit scarey, its acceleration is shithouse, and I sometimes have to to press the clutch twice to get it into first when taking off, but I have no regrets getting it instead of saving up the extra money for a TR-6. They are go-karts for adults and full of character, as crude as they are. Their quirks and idiosyncrasies just add to the charm.
A change of heart happens to all of us and it’s hard to part with what we are fond of. The reasons for the sale are completely reasonable and no point hanging onto something and not giving it the use it deserves.
Jack, you are definitely not alone in such dilemma. I tell you a story how i sold my MGB GT, which was the first ever sports car i have ever owned and brought it from the UK home in the Czech Republic in early spring 2008. I didnt use it too much after some 5 years or so, sold it, but became a friend basically with a guy i sold it to. When he decided to sell it on some two years after that, my only reaction when i got to know that he is selling the car was that i buy it back. In fact we call the MG, Seb like Sebastian, the previous UK owners called the MG this way, so we kept the name, it comes from the numberplate having "SBT" letters in it. Long story short, i still have the car and i dont drive it enough it desires and every year i hope i put more kms on it than the year before, but i am utterly unable to sell it again. So, i get your feelings. It is a trouble with having more cars and more great drivers cars. I agree with Frankenlise 100%. I have an S2 111R and nothing else from my other cars i own comes close to the driving pleasure it can give. But then i sit in the old MG, i pull out the choke, it fires up (well will fire up when i sort out the bloody ignition which needs changing to the electronic accuspark unit i plan to order now after winter) and it burbles into life... iwon't sell it, but at the same time i know i need find time to look after it and manage to drive it at least once a month. It would probably be better to sell to someone who enjoys the car more, but selling it once again and buying once again back? :-D It is funny and its nice to hear in a video a chap who's got exactly same problem, there are more of us like this for sure
You're always welcome to come to Minnesota and try my 1960 Bugeye with a souped up 2.0 liter Pinto engine in it with Weber carbs. Write off your trip to the U.S. by making a video. I have to fix it now but it should be done in a couple of months. I'm considering putting in a better/modern engine in it eventually.
Great story told and shot/edited very well, professional Jack. Worth a recount in a magazine before the car goes to a new home. You served Fred with the best stewardship possible. He is still here in almost orginal shape. Find a new keeper for the Bug Eye. Let him go on more adventures. Possibly organize a raffle? And make nice shots of Fred for the Number 27 2022 calendar. There's no shame in finding a new driver for Fred, a young lady driver in London, fashioned in the glamour of the first owner. Thank you, what a story Jack, teary eyed!!
I did the same with a car i had restored and raced over 15yrs. The guy came to buy it and i couldnt sell it. I used it for another year then sold it to the same chap. And it was the right decision, made at the right time. Its very hard to let them go but you will know when the time is right.
Absolutely understand the 'will I/won't I' dilemma... and how you flipped when you were in Fred and flopped on the way home. Emotional ... and you will definitely have both fond memories and pangs of regret in the future. C'est la vie!
My emotional connection to my mx5 ive owned for 15yrs has stopped me from selling it several times, since I've done all the work on it like you it's really hard to let it go so I can relate to your plight...
Hiya Jack. Mate - I know exactly where you are coming from. I have two Triumphs - a 2500S manual / overdrive saloon and a Stag (also with M/OD). The 2500S is one of the last ever produced from the Nelson, New Zealand plant and the shell is one of the few CKD kits that BL New Zealand bought from the Australians when they stopped their own run of the model. NZ kept putting them together until the plant closed on the 30th of March 1979. Mine is the eighth to last one, built 22/01/1979 and first registered on the 3rd of April - the Tuesday following the closure. She spent four years as a government car before going into private ownership and for her age and milage, she's still a great looking vehicle. Having never been restored or the engine rebuilt, she does have a few small battle scars and touch ups, but that engine still goes well and the car does everything it should and more. I absolutely adore it. However, I parked it in May last year because I got the Stag back on the road finally. Now, I had always wanted a Stag and finally bought one after many months of searching. However, to keep myself busy and in a classic, I had bought the 2500S.....with the view to selling it when I acquired the Stag. However, I could not bear to part with it at the time as it had really got under my skin. The Stag was a problem child for the first year or so of ownership with many things going wrong one after the other, so having the 2500S around was a blessing. Then the Stag decided to push her luck and broke down three days after I got her back from the shop and so I parked her for a year to teach her a lesson.....and to decide if I really wanted to continue ownership of a car that was relentless in her devotion to and creativity in devising new ways to drive me up the wall. Having gotten her back on the road, I enjoyed several thousand miles of topless driving over summer and the 2500S has again sat. Waiting. Knowing I will eventually come back.....but it's been many months now and she has not turned a wheel and I figured it would be better for her if I moved her on so she could get the love she is used to. She'd recently sat for three months and never even been opened, so the spiders filled the door cracks (and a foot either side of them) with cobwebs and even put webs between sills and the floor and wheel arch to tyre and the floor. No battery aids used while sitting or jumpers put on her either - I just opened the driver's door, popped the bonnet, primed the fuel pump and carburettors (with the little lever on the bottom of the pump), went back to the interior and turned the key. All ignition lights came on and turning it to the start position, I was rewarded by the sound of the six cylinder winding over and firing up on all six in a lot less time than it took you to read this sentence. She fired about 20 spiders out her tail pipe and sat there idling like I had only left her there the day before. The smell of the vinyl and the factory floor mats, the gauges coming to life, sitting in the seats looking out over her Pimento bonnet, the pantograph driver's side wiper......all were there and working and she moved when I checked the clutch in both first and reverse. Suddenly I felt like a right ba..ard for thinking about selling her. How could I? She was Tracey the 2500S! She did so much for me and I have done so many miles in her and enjoyed every one of them! I was in a right old quandary - do I sell her or not? That was two weeks ago and the cooler, rational head has returned. She shouldn't be left sitting around. It's no good for her and with the Stag occupying all my driving time and doing what I need, there's no need for her to be there. It's a hard call, but for the sake of the car, it is best they stay being used. Modern cars can sit with no issues - older cars cannot sit without developing them. The number of dirty wiring connections I've had to clean up since the Stag went back on the road for a start! I'd love to buy Fred, mate, but he'd cost me about NZ$45-50k to land him and put him through customs, compliance and certification for the modifications....and that's a bit much for me. Love the history and loved the story and as much as I would love to own him, it cannot be done. All the best though.
I just bought a Sprite, same color and year as yours. So slow omg! Also most uncomfortable seats I’ve ever sat in. But totally love it and eagerly awaiting summer to use it more
I well remember the crappy drum brakes on my frog eye-made somewhat worse by the fact it was an ex hillclimb car with a 1/2 race 1622 MGA engine in it….. I cured the brakes by updating to a set of discs from a later Midget, and cured the other major problem of continually snapping half shafts thanks to a chat with the BMC competition department giving me the part number for some special shafts they developed for the racing 1275’s. Loved that car-it was sadly tail ended by a drunk in Spain which bent the chassis and wrote it off…… Keep yours-you’ll never find another like it!
My first sportscar was a Frogeye , XOH277 , years ago . I left it standard & it kept up with everything back then . Great fun blasting round the backroads around Exeter , and flashing headlights at another coming the opposite way . Then many years later I did a lot of the pre-production testing on the Elise at Millbrook .
Oh noooooo Jack, you can’t sell Fred!!! It’s a unicorn with just two owners and, as others have said, pretty bullet proof. Let’s face it what other car will you EVER own that has this much character??? I’m off to set up a “save Fred” campaign!! In all seriousness you can’t keep them all, but… sell a kidney, do whatever it takes 😉
Don't do it Jack... there are some things that should be kept regardless. Being the second owner in over 60 years, the back story and having everything sorted. That's a keeper and only getting more valuable.
I built a Mk1 I built from scratch. Ford Cortina engine + gearbox, Spitfire front suspension and 2 litre Cortina disks, link rear suspension and lotus bits in the engine. Fibreglass bonnet and trick front coils. It was my creation and I sold it. I profoundly regret this more than the sale of my 300hp 1968 muscle car, my Triumph Spitfires, my Ducati bike. I am a fucking idiot. The new owner crashed and wrote it off. Currently I have Z3 and a 916 Spider and I won't make the mistake of selling them. They are going to my Grandson. Keeping Fred is the wisest decision you will ever make. Cheers from OZ
Great stream Jack. It is hard but like you said you always get in your Frankenlise. Fred will just sit there. What a great story though. I have a 2005 Mazda MX5 1800 just sitting for 3-4 years now. What to do with it
I sold my beautiful very early Frogeye, having only done about 100 miles in 3 years. I did regret it. Nothing I’ve owned (70+ cars and bikes) put such a big grin on my face or got so many smiles from people in the street. But it was suffering from not being used and I did the right thing.
I think in a very long winded way you've expressed what car enthusiasts go through on a regular basis! I know when it's time to move a car on; it's when it stops making me smile! The Elise is great, and prices are on the up, but it is still a compromised chassis. The Sprite is also a rare, two-owner classic, and arguably more interesting. It all depends what future lies ahead for both cars, will the Elise end up garaged and unused? If so, will it still make you grin the moment you start it up like the Sprite did after a while laid up?
Jack, you are the "internetpal" to 66,000 subscribers. Whoever buys "Fred" will do so for the right reasons. The 1275cc engine and the 5 speed gearbox were the right upgrades. Fred's brakes? Next project?
Great video, Jack. And very human! The confusion is part of the entertainment. Many of us know a similar syndrome I suspect. I keep trying to sell my 3.0. V6 Alfa GTV - then I get in it and push the Busso up to 7K revs .... and fail to sell it for yet another month....... And spring is coming...😎
Jack, you will come to regret that decision. To have a car with that history is a very rare opportunity. Yes, Fred is best for tootling about on lovely English lanes, so his usefulness is limited, but oh the joy and smiles he will bring for a very long time. I'm now thinking about getting back into a classic Mini, having given up my last one in 1989. I probably should have kept that car, because to find one here in Canada (not a late, UK right hand drive one), is both difficult and expensive.
With that lovely story it would make it hard for me to sell plus you’ve put your heart and soul into saving that beautiful old girl and you’ve done her so proud so you’ve got to keep her. I’m in a similar situation as I’ve ended up somehow with 5 cars from the 90s and the majority have been saved from the clutches of the scrap yard and given a last minute reprieve and all are lovely examples. One is a beautiful low mileage Z3 in exactly the spec I would of ordered from the factory and I’ve not used it for 2 years but every time I go to sell it and reverse it out the garage I know it will be the last time I will have that experience and just can’t part with it. The end of the day I know it’s money but my theory is it’s no good in the bank, that’s what I tell myself and it will only end up getting squandered on bills and we are the last generation that will have the thrill of the open road so we’ve got to make the most of it. It will sell easily at that price though and someone is will get a bargain.
I also have two classics in my garage: a 1967 Alfa Romeo Duetto (2nd owner) and a 2005 Honda S2000 (original owner). Like you, I've also had unfaithful thoughts of selling one or both to fund something modern. While the Duetto provides nowhere near the performance of say a Cayman, the sound, smell and looks give me a smile every time I drive it. Like your Elise, the S2000 is a completely different driving experience to the Duetto, and satisfies my itch whenever I want to go canyon carving. As they say, variety is the spice of life, and so I'll be keeping both.
I have had my 1962 Austin Cooper for 45 years and have never thought of selling it. Building the motor on my 1960 sprite that I have had for a year now. (ground up build). Doubt I will see it either, or my MG Midget.
Seller remorse doesn't last for ever but letting go is always hard but i reckon Fred will find a new home before the spring with that back story and mechanicals
Hi Jack, I don't comment often on videos but on this occasion, felt that I had too! I get exactly the same problem as you got with the Bug Eye Sprite. I also fix up project cars and then, I find I have such a strong emotional attachment that I can't sell them! I see you store your Sprite, which is exactly what I was planning to do with my TVR Griffith BUT it just postpones the problem. You put it away, so you feel great because you haven't had to sell it but then you are even less likely to use it! Like you, I jump in the car with the intention of selling it and then instantly change my mind! lol Keep up the good work on the videos, love them!
Definitely DON'T sell Fred. Get rid of the Elise instead. I sold my similarly modified classic Mini and 10 years later I still hugely regret letting it go and have been unable to hunt it down.
Hi Jack - I don’t this video as a mess; but rather, as a sincere explanation of how you feel. I sympathize with your equivocation entirely. My suggestion would be to hold off on selling Fred for 3 - 6 months, in order to let your feelings resolve themselves.
My first car was also under a liter.. A Fiat 850 Spyder. Second car, Lotus Europa S2, and then Europa S1. Eventually decades later, graduated to the C5 Corvette.. with many enhancements.
I tend to agree with the major sentiment of most of the comments in that you should keep Fred. I'm still in the process of rebuilding my Frogeye and I already dread the day when or if it comes time to sell.
I totally get the wobble towards the end. I hung on to my Frogeye (just an FCC/IOW but still) for several years longer than necessary because even though I hardly used it towards the end they just get under your skin and you can't imagine being without. Mine had a Peter May 1293cc engine, Type 9 box, Maniflow, etc etc and it still miss it. Replaced it with a 2.7 987 Boxster which I do love but obviously for very different reasons haha. It was the right call but a hard one! I did look into S1 Elises too because I've always wanted one but budget-wise alas for yours truly that train had sailed 😢
As you say, not sure you've hit the spot with this one! Started out talking us through the Sprite, all the expensive bits you added - engine, DCOE, gearbox but then said it is no longer as relaxed (which is what it was good at) and spent the rest of the video extolling the S1 Elise.... I have driven both and would like to own either but where does this leave me... If it were my Sprite, the 5 speed box and extra cc's would be attractive but I would have stayed with SU and flexibility at a lower cost. I think the conclusion is that either would make a great sunny day driver - but don't buy both ! BTW, helped my brother rebuild a Frogeye back in late '70s after pointing him at an advert (2 for £160). One was rebuidable, the other was a parts car that he broke to get his money back, (and some).
If you don’t sell it through the video, you could try Mathewson’s Classic Car Auctions. They have the Bangers and Cash TV series and get some great cars in every sale which is usually monthly.
I understand you so well. Its hard to sell some times but it needs to have someone that use it often. Jack i agree with you about the Lotus, the S1 i only drove once as they are very rare in Portugal but is one of those cars that feels like a suit made by order for you, fits perfectly and feels like is a part of your body. Love those very very much.
God I truely understand. I have up to 11 cars from time to time and I own a 63 sprite that I love but can never drive. I also own a Porsche 944 that is my Elise in your situation. But for me I don’t think I can ever part with my sprite as it is just a different car all together. I feel you and cars have souls that can touch us in different ways.
Exactly how I feel about my mini pickup. Love it and have had it years but never use it but can't bring myself to sell it even though it makes no sence to keep it as a ornament in the garage....
I know the feeling Jack ! I've had my own summer car for the last 33 years. A 1988 GT, less than 80,000 km since new. Tip top condition. Never seen winter nor much rain. But for the last 5 years, I drove it less than 1k km a year. Costs me next to nothing. But now, at 69 y.o. I have health issues, especially my back and ankles. And it's a very low rider. Ouch ! My family tells me to sell it. But, Spring comes and it is like I've never driven it ! So sweet. Every year, I face the same dilemma. Should I sell it this time ? 😱 So, you're much yonger than I, it costs you pennies. KEEP IT !
I can understand your feelings with the Sprite Jack, in the past, after owning more than 50 different cars in a long life, (many of those cars nice collectables), a lot of those were hard to part with. Think of them like beautiful women, who was it sang "You can't love 'em all"? Better to move on anything you're not getting any use out of. Hope "Fred" goes to a good home and the money will be handy for another project.
Hahaha, it's a mental affliction! I've far too many cars and I do exactly the same, I decide to sell then sit in them, do some man maths about investment, etc etc and then agree with myself to keep them 🙈 I am now actually putting a concerted effort in to sell some as they do weigh on your mind sitting there doing nothing, fingers crossed I can be a resolute as you were at the end.
'Fred' is what I call my Kawasaki motorcycle. Old friend had a hound dog when I was a kid. Dog's name was Fred. "Come on, Fred".when he went out It stuck. Crank up my bike."Come on,'Fred'..let's go".
I can relate , My Zoe spider is going for something more usable ....parking space issues etc etc ... Another Alfa will replace it, equally desirable but less “ character “ I’ll miss it , but sometimes it’s just time.
I think every car person can identify with this. I get pretty attached to cars but, honestly, I'm not sure that it has ever served me well to do so. It has pretty much always turned out to be a good idea to sell a car I'm attached to in retrospect. Of course, I say this as I battle frame rust on my Toyota FJ, so I am definitely not practicing what I preach!
You will regret selling Fred. My Midget is slow, noisy, uncomfortable, unsafe, impractical but every time I get in it I have a huge grin on my face, that no other car delivers. When you pass people in the street they stop, look, wave, and smile. Such a fun car.
That's Elises for you Jack, they get under your skin. I've had absolutely no interest in my other "fun" car (Westfield) since getting my S2 a few years ago. I only planned for it to be a temporary bit of fun but loads of goodies later I can't ever see myself selling it now.
I love that Video. I can totally understand,why you r torn back and forth. I guess a lot of your viewers were at that point once in their lifetime. So was I. I regretted a lot of Sold cars and bycicles. Good luck with that descision and thx for sharing your thoughts about that nice car
Jack - i feel your pain... i'm in exactly the same position with my MGB. i've got an intense emotional connection to her and she has such a unique story... I've hugely over-invested in her restoration and i love her... but sadly i have to let her go... she's on my channel and misery loves company as they say...
Funny Thought I just had as I was watching a video. You can take both of these cars to a local car show and many people will walk on by the Lotus but no one walks by Fred without smiling, taking a look , and often relating their own Bugeye story.
Ive never heard of a frogeye sprite with an 848 engine, Im not surprised you found it slow. If it had the standard 948 engine that should have been perky enough.
Gutted :( Difficult decision Jack. Still miss my Triumph Herald. Someone tried to steel it once, but the throttle was only held on with a bit of wire, and fell off. Great anti-theft device 😉 Not sure, have we missed a recent video of Fred being driven with a bit more spirit?
I know how you felt. I have a motorbike I've had since 14 for 22yrs. Rode the nuts off it all over the SW, been torched once, stolen 3 times, dropped a valve once. Yet it's still here and running. I went to sell it on eBay and I ended up cancelling the auction because I couldn't part with it.
Keep little old Fred, he’s an absolute beauty! If I had the money and the space for him, I’d give Fred a new home in a heartbeat!!
Keep him. He's depreciation proof (probably quite the opposite) so he's at least as good as money in the bank. Have you noticed that Fred and the Elise have the same grille?
Yes he’s a tangible investment and in today’s volatile market conditions definitely better than money in the bank. Unless you want to liquidate him for another automotive project which will provide new content for the channel. It would be good if you kept the original engine and other components if somebody wants it matching numbers and stock. That would potentially increase its value as an asset.
I can see your point. Maybe gone too far from the original quaintness. But still a lovely thing with a nice history... Just a shame I don't have a bigger piggy bank
That feeling is well known to many. I have a Nissan Z that I drive 2-300 miles a year and have tried to sell many times. Everytime I start it up and go for a ride and get a little sideways I grin ear to ear and decide to keep it. If you love Fred, keep Fred. Thanks for sharing👍
You’ll regret it I’m sure. You can never justify a classic on normal grounds, they are infinitely crappier than their modern equivalents at most things. However that’s the charm. I really enjoy watching the updates on Fred, maybe you can build in a few more classic events or some shorter road trips in Fred which would help?
I feel your pain. I have had a Citroën 2CV for over 20 years. Some years I don't get to use it much. That's when I start to convince myself that I should sell it. But then I go for a drive, and realize that I come home smiling. At that point, I just gently close the garage door and move on with the rest of life. The heart knows, Jack.....
Jack I think you’ll regret selling Fred ! I say keep him enjoy him and enjoy him but it’s you’re car it’s up to you buddy!!
The second you sell Fred you’ll regret it, you’ll never find another with the history of that car…..
Fred isn’t a divers car, he’s a relaxed sunny Sunday afternoon drive……
Not according to what's just been said here.
Personally I would keep Fred.
The two of you have come a long way, you are part of its history and it’s a part of your you tube journey.
I have a 61 bugeye sprite with an sbc 383ci, and I love it.
Someday, someone else will love it like I do.
It's only on loan to me until it's passed on to the next loving owner.
I have great sympathy for you Jack, but I would love to hear that you keep Fred.
I now own/drive a 1959 "fast road" frogeye myself. It is brilliantly simple. I love the lack of door handles and lack of boot lid. I love the bug eyes and the rounded tail. I delight in the sounds of the Weber 45 DCOE and the slick changes of the type 9 five speed gearbox, with irresistible blips on down-change thanks to the natural heel-and-toe pedals.
However, I too used to own a Series 1 Elise, which had to go when retirement and downsizing became a priority, so I appreciate your dilemma.
We've all been there Jack. Back in 2020, I shipped two 916 series Alfa Romeos from the UK to my new home in western Finland, because I'd put so much of myself into the cars that I couldn't face selling them. It cost me thousands in shipping and the local punitive car tax, but it's been worth it!
I have a mint 1960 Bugeye and I’m keeping it this time, I had so many classic cars and trucks and I always regretted selling it after all the work had been done, a classic cars and modern cars is not the same, much more fun to drive a classic
KEEP IT!!! I have a fondness for Early Sprites. I was 7 in 1959 when my parents came home with a brand-new Bug Eye Sprite and I fell in Love. It mostly became my mom's car (my dad was too tall to fit comfortably). They kept it for a couple of years and then traded it for a slightly used Austin Healey 3000 which my dad could fit in nicely. I was still small enough that the jump seats worked out fine for me on road trips. A pillow and a comforter and I was set to go! My first car at 16 was a not so nice 56 MGA but it was mine!. Needless to say I have a thing for British sport cars. I recently bought a low mileage 77 MGB roadster from an elderly neighbor and am getting it sorted out. A little problem with me getting in/out with the top up but I will probably be 'top down' most of the time weather permitting. Fred is an investment that should keep his value plus he's so tiny he shouldn't be in the way😃
Jack, I know exactly what you mean my MG is the first car I did a full restoration and I still have it 35 years later I don't drive him that much but when I do it really puts a smile on my face -= could never sell! KEEP FRED!!!!!!!!
You made the perfect video to explain love for Cars to non car people. Your best work yet. So recogniseable, that emotion. Perfect
That is a wonderful story and the best video you have ever made. Ever, ever. Thank you for sharing, Jack.
Bret
The more vehicles advance, the more love & respect I have for cars like the Sprite. It serves as representation of what sports cars used to be. Rather than compare them with the performance/handling/safety of today's cars (what few are still being made that aren't SUV's), I simply appreciate them for what they are - and what will never be again. Your emotional struggles are completely understandable, especially given your personal connection to the Sprite's history.
That said, though it is a more modern car, much the same could be noted for the Elise (minus the personal connection that is). If you can't afford to keep both, then it makes sense to hang on to the one that would bring you the most driving pleasure. Life is fleeting. At some point no one will be allowed to drive either of these cars out on the road. Then it will basically be the museum or bust for all ICE-based vehicles. Until that point in time comes, I'm of the opinion that such cars are best off under the ownership of someone that will use, care for, and enjoy them while still possible. Hopefully the next owner of the Sprite will cherish it accordingly just as you'll be doing with the Elise. I realize that these are just things, but for many of us they are very special things indeed. Good luck!
Keep it. A ‘60 Bug Eye was my first car & when it ran was truly special. I believe my mechanic had it longer than I did. Keep building those memories and do take charge of preserving a classic.
My grandfather had one of these in the ‘50s and used it to commute into London from Herts, whatever the weather. The tonneau over the passenger seat used to fill with water and slosh everywhere going round corners apparently. Cars were certainly more interesting back then.
standard spec and not modded is the key!
When in doubt Don't! I've made that mistake and regretted it for years now.
Keep him! He is just like that favorite Uncle you visit every so often!!!!
Such a hatchet job, Jack... :D :D :D I TOTALLY understand your quandary and how much cars mean to us car guys. I'm sure that Fred will find a great home. Thanks so much for sharing your journey.
The 308 and the Sprite are the two cars you own which will appreciate the fastest over the next 10 years. Fred's a keeper. :)
@UC3f9_iyfpMZ92iBzCsxuL0Q Unless you can fire pingpong balls out yer lady garden at 30rpm don't waste our time, were connoisseurs here you know.
I haven't driven an Elise but I did travel in a Sprite as a kid and have fond memories of that era. I would also find it difficult to get rid of Fred and in fact if it had been my car I would have kept it completely original and live with the lack of power. Assuming the original engine was putting out significantly less than when it was new, it could easily be down to under 30bhp and it would have been easy to get the engine back to full power and even slightly more while retaining the originality. I wonder if Jack kept all the original bits as this would enable a new owner to have the option to return it to original spec if desired.
Not a waste of a video at all and actually more emotionally pure and hits closer to the heart than most videos on RUclips ! For me, it is one of your best. If I didn't live across "the pond" I'd buy you a couple beers at the local pub and commiserate.
Many of us who truly enjoy cars have similar stories and fully understand and empathize with the emotionally draining position you are in with Fred. I feel your pain, and am reliving some regretted cars sales of my own right now, thanks;)
Cars can become like companions, especially when one has wrenched on them hundreds of hours over many years. Perhaps better than companions as I would love a second chance with some of my sold cars; I don't want a single past girlfriend back ....
To this day I regret selling a couple cars from my youth. Not because they were great .... or even good cars for that matter. It was the memories I had working on and driving them. Financially, when I was young and just starting out it made sense to get rid of them. I'd gladly pay 20 times what I sold my first car for, but sadly it was totaled a week after selling gone forever. I'm not going to make that mistake with my 2 XKEs and Elise though - my kids can keep them or get rid of them when I'm gone. I'm just not strong enough to sell them.
Good luck with your difficult decision on Fred !
I don't know how you could part with Fred just looking at him brings a smile to your face. He's like a beautiful work of art and probably as good an investment.
He is great.. but… just doesn’t make sense for me to keep anymore.
I first drove a frog eye back in1962a mate of mine bought one..previous to that I'd only drive a Willy's jeep and a Morris j2 pickup truck. What a thrill the Frog was so I fully sympathise with you. You will definitely miss Fred when he's gone. Thanks Jack.
I'm going to be sad to see him go. He was the reason I found your channel after I became an MG Midget owner. I can't say that the Midget was my first choice when looking for a classic car but I instantly fell in love. The brakes are a bit scarey, its acceleration is shithouse, and I sometimes have to to press the clutch twice to get it into first when taking off, but I have no regrets getting it instead of saving up the extra money for a TR-6. They are go-karts for adults and full of character, as crude as they are. Their quirks and idiosyncrasies just add to the charm.
A change of heart happens to all of us and it’s hard to part with what we are fond of. The reasons for the sale are completely reasonable and no point hanging onto something and not giving it the use it deserves.
Jack, you are definitely not alone in such dilemma. I tell you a story how i sold my MGB GT, which was the first ever sports car i have ever owned and brought it from the UK home in the Czech Republic in early spring 2008. I didnt use it too much after some 5 years or so, sold it, but became a friend basically with a guy i sold it to. When he decided to sell it on some two years after that, my only reaction when i got to know that he is selling the car was that i buy it back. In fact we call the MG, Seb like Sebastian, the previous UK owners called the MG this way, so we kept the name, it comes from the numberplate having "SBT" letters in it. Long story short, i still have the car and i dont drive it enough it desires and every year i hope i put more kms on it than the year before, but i am utterly unable to sell it again. So, i get your feelings. It is a trouble with having more cars and more great drivers cars. I agree with Frankenlise 100%. I have an S2 111R and nothing else from my other cars i own comes close to the driving pleasure it can give. But then i sit in the old MG, i pull out the choke, it fires up (well will fire up when i sort out the bloody ignition which needs changing to the electronic accuspark unit i plan to order now after winter) and it burbles into life... iwon't sell it, but at the same time i know i need find time to look after it and manage to drive it at least once a month. It would probably be better to sell to someone who enjoys the car more, but selling it once again and buying once again back? :-D It is funny and its nice to hear in a video a chap who's got exactly same problem, there are more of us like this for sure
DONT DON'T DON'T sell Fred, STOP you,ll regret it and end up buying him back!! 🐸🐸🐸🐸
You're always welcome to come to Minnesota and try my 1960 Bugeye with a souped up 2.0 liter Pinto engine in it with Weber carbs. Write off your trip to the U.S. by making a video. I have to fix it now but it should be done in a couple of months. I'm considering putting in a better/modern engine in it eventually.
Great story told and shot/edited very well, professional Jack. Worth a recount in a magazine before the car goes to a new home. You served Fred with the best stewardship possible. He is still here in almost orginal shape. Find a new keeper for the Bug Eye. Let him go on more adventures. Possibly organize a raffle? And make nice shots of Fred for the Number 27 2022 calendar. There's no shame in finding a new driver for Fred, a young lady driver in London, fashioned in the glamour of the first owner. Thank you, what a story Jack, teary eyed!!
I did the same with a car i had restored and raced over 15yrs. The guy came to buy it and i couldnt sell it. I used it for another year then sold it to the same chap. And it was the right decision, made at the right time. Its very hard to let them go but you will know when the time is right.
Absolutely understand the 'will I/won't I' dilemma... and how you flipped when you were in Fred and flopped on the way home. Emotional ... and you will definitely have both fond memories and pangs of regret in the future. C'est la vie!
Nearly bought a restored one a few weeks back. Lovem to bits! Amazing contribution Jack :)
My emotional connection to my mx5 ive owned for 15yrs has stopped me from selling it several times, since I've done all the work on it like you it's really hard to let it go so I can relate to your plight...
On the positive side, if you sell Fred you'll be able to afford a new number plate for the Elise too, but I think you'll regret parting with him.
Hiya Jack. Mate - I know exactly where you are coming from. I have two Triumphs - a 2500S manual / overdrive saloon and a Stag (also with M/OD). The 2500S is one of the last ever produced from the Nelson, New Zealand plant and the shell is one of the few CKD kits that BL New Zealand bought from the Australians when they stopped their own run of the model. NZ kept putting them together until the plant closed on the 30th of March 1979. Mine is the eighth to last one, built 22/01/1979 and first registered on the 3rd of April - the Tuesday following the closure. She spent four years as a government car before going into private ownership and for her age and milage, she's still a great looking vehicle. Having never been restored or the engine rebuilt, she does have a few small battle scars and touch ups, but that engine still goes well and the car does everything it should and more. I absolutely adore it. However, I parked it in May last year because I got the Stag back on the road finally.
Now, I had always wanted a Stag and finally bought one after many months of searching. However, to keep myself busy and in a classic, I had bought the 2500S.....with the view to selling it when I acquired the Stag. However, I could not bear to part with it at the time as it had really got under my skin. The Stag was a problem child for the first year or so of ownership with many things going wrong one after the other, so having the 2500S around was a blessing. Then the Stag decided to push her luck and broke down three days after I got her back from the shop and so I parked her for a year to teach her a lesson.....and to decide if I really wanted to continue ownership of a car that was relentless in her devotion to and creativity in devising new ways to drive me up the wall. Having gotten her back on the road, I enjoyed several thousand miles of topless driving over summer and the 2500S has again sat. Waiting. Knowing I will eventually come back.....but it's been many months now and she has not turned a wheel and I figured it would be better for her if I moved her on so she could get the love she is used to.
She'd recently sat for three months and never even been opened, so the spiders filled the door cracks (and a foot either side of them) with cobwebs and even put webs between sills and the floor and wheel arch to tyre and the floor. No battery aids used while sitting or jumpers put on her either - I just opened the driver's door, popped the bonnet, primed the fuel pump and carburettors (with the little lever on the bottom of the pump), went back to the interior and turned the key. All ignition lights came on and turning it to the start position, I was rewarded by the sound of the six cylinder winding over and firing up on all six in a lot less time than it took you to read this sentence. She fired about 20 spiders out her tail pipe and sat there idling like I had only left her there the day before. The smell of the vinyl and the factory floor mats, the gauges coming to life, sitting in the seats looking out over her Pimento bonnet, the pantograph driver's side wiper......all were there and working and she moved when I checked the clutch in both first and reverse. Suddenly I felt like a right ba..ard for thinking about selling her. How could I? She was Tracey the 2500S! She did so much for me and I have done so many miles in her and enjoyed every one of them! I was in a right old quandary - do I sell her or not?
That was two weeks ago and the cooler, rational head has returned. She shouldn't be left sitting around. It's no good for her and with the Stag occupying all my driving time and doing what I need, there's no need for her to be there. It's a hard call, but for the sake of the car, it is best they stay being used. Modern cars can sit with no issues - older cars cannot sit without developing them. The number of dirty wiring connections I've had to clean up since the Stag went back on the road for a start!
I'd love to buy Fred, mate, but he'd cost me about NZ$45-50k to land him and put him through customs, compliance and certification for the modifications....and that's a bit much for me. Love the history and loved the story and as much as I would love to own him, it cannot be done. All the best though.
I just bought a Sprite, same color and year as yours. So slow omg! Also most uncomfortable seats I’ve ever sat in. But totally love it and eagerly awaiting summer to use it more
Great video Jack, you always bring a grin to my face.
I well remember the crappy drum brakes on my frog eye-made somewhat worse by the fact it was an ex hillclimb car with a 1/2 race 1622 MGA engine in it….. I cured the brakes by updating to a set of discs from a later Midget, and cured the other major problem of continually snapping half shafts thanks to a chat with the BMC competition department giving me the part number for some special shafts they developed for the racing 1275’s. Loved that car-it was sadly tail ended by a drunk in Spain which bent the chassis and wrote it off…… Keep yours-you’ll never find another like it!
My first sportscar was a Frogeye , XOH277 , years ago . I left it standard & it kept up with everything back then . Great fun blasting round the backroads around Exeter , and flashing headlights at another coming the opposite way . Then many years later I did a lot of the pre-production testing on the Elise at Millbrook .
Oh noooooo Jack, you can’t sell Fred!!! It’s a unicorn with just two owners and, as others have said, pretty bullet proof. Let’s face it what other car will you EVER own that has this much character??? I’m off to set up a “save Fred” campaign!! In all seriousness you can’t keep them all, but… sell a kidney, do whatever it takes 😉
Can’t you ‘rent’ Fred to someone who will love and look after him? If you don’t need the cash.
AGREED! My bro has one and its a ton of fun.
Hi, you must keep Fred great little car so much charm and all those memories
Don't do it Jack... there are some things that should be kept regardless. Being the second owner in over 60 years, the back story and having everything sorted. That's a keeper and only getting more valuable.
I built a Mk1 I built from scratch. Ford Cortina engine + gearbox, Spitfire front suspension and 2 litre Cortina disks, link rear suspension and lotus bits in the engine. Fibreglass bonnet and trick front coils. It was my creation and I sold it. I profoundly regret this more than the sale of my 300hp 1968 muscle car, my Triumph Spitfires, my Ducati bike. I am a fucking idiot. The new owner crashed and wrote it off. Currently I have Z3 and a 916 Spider and I won't make the mistake of selling them. They are going to my Grandson. Keeping Fred is the wisest decision you will ever make. Cheers from OZ
Great stream Jack. It is hard but like you said you always get in your Frankenlise. Fred will just sit there. What a great story though. I have a 2005 Mazda MX5 1800 just sitting for 3-4 years now. What to do with it
Oh no, so sorry that you feel this way. It is a wonderful car. Hope you do not regret it too much.
We form emotional bonds with our cars, just like pets. There have been a few I have had a hard time getting rid of and wishing I hadn't.
I sold my beautiful very early Frogeye, having only done about 100 miles in 3 years. I did regret it. Nothing I’ve owned (70+ cars and bikes) put such a big grin on my face or got so many smiles from people in the street. But it was suffering from not being used and I did the right thing.
You'll always regret selling Fred, keep it.
I go through similar feelings with my bike because I don’t ride it enough, then I start engine and I fall in love again.
I think in a very long winded way you've expressed what car enthusiasts go through on a regular basis! I know when it's time to move a car on; it's when it stops making me smile! The Elise is great, and prices are on the up, but it is still a compromised chassis. The Sprite is also a rare, two-owner classic, and arguably more interesting. It all depends what future lies ahead for both cars, will the Elise end up garaged and unused? If so, will it still make you grin the moment you start it up like the Sprite did after a while laid up?
Jack, you are the "internetpal" to 66,000 subscribers. Whoever buys "Fred" will do so for the right reasons. The 1275cc engine and the 5 speed gearbox were the right upgrades. Fred's brakes? Next project?
1380cc engine
Great video, Jack. And very human! The confusion is part of the entertainment. Many of us know a similar syndrome I suspect. I keep trying to sell my 3.0. V6 Alfa GTV - then I get in it and push the Busso up to 7K revs .... and fail to sell it for yet another month....... And spring is coming...😎
Jack, you will come to regret that decision. To have a car with that history is a very rare opportunity. Yes, Fred is best for tootling about on lovely English lanes, so his usefulness is limited, but oh the joy and smiles he will bring for a very long time. I'm now thinking about getting back into a classic Mini, having given up my last one in 1989. I probably should have kept that car, because to find one here in Canada (not a late, UK right hand drive one), is both difficult and expensive.
With that lovely story it would make it hard for me to sell plus you’ve put your heart and soul into saving that beautiful old girl and you’ve done her so proud so you’ve got to keep her.
I’m in a similar situation as I’ve ended up somehow with 5 cars from the 90s and the majority have been saved from the clutches of the scrap yard and given a last minute reprieve and all are lovely examples.
One is a beautiful low mileage Z3 in exactly the spec I would of ordered from the factory and I’ve not used it for 2 years but every time I go to sell it and reverse it out the garage I know it will be the last time I will have that experience and just can’t part with it.
The end of the day I know it’s money but my theory is it’s no good in the bank, that’s what I tell myself and it will only end up getting squandered on bills and we are the last generation that will have the thrill of the open road so we’ve got to make the most of it.
It will sell easily at that price though and someone is will get a bargain.
Fred is awesome, and you should keep him.
I also have two classics in my garage: a 1967 Alfa Romeo Duetto (2nd owner) and a 2005 Honda S2000 (original owner). Like you, I've also had unfaithful thoughts of selling one or both to fund something modern. While the Duetto provides nowhere near the performance of say a Cayman, the sound, smell and looks give me a smile every time I drive it. Like your Elise, the S2000 is a completely different driving experience to the Duetto, and satisfies my itch whenever I want to go canyon carving. As they say, variety is the spice of life, and so I'll be keeping both.
I have had my 1962 Austin Cooper for 45 years and have never thought of selling it. Building the motor on my 1960 sprite that I have had for a year now. (ground up build). Doubt I will see it either, or my MG Midget.
The number of times I’ve got ready to sell my S1, but then driven it, and changed my mind. It hardly gets used either. 1600 miles in over 3 yrs
Please replace broken that front numberplate on the Frankenlise.
Who said you cant fall in luv with a car. This was really interesting, I'm sure he'll go to a 'Loving' home. Thanks for sharing
Seller remorse doesn't last for ever but letting go is always hard but i reckon Fred will find a new home before the spring with that back story and mechanicals
Hi Jack, I don't comment often on videos but on this occasion, felt that I had too! I get exactly the same problem as you got with the Bug Eye Sprite. I also fix up project cars and then, I find I have such a strong emotional attachment that I can't sell them! I see you store your Sprite, which is exactly what I was planning to do with my TVR Griffith BUT it just postpones the problem. You put it away, so you feel great because you haven't had to sell it but then you are even less likely to use it! Like you, I jump in the car with the intention of selling it and then instantly change my mind! lol Keep up the good work on the videos, love them!
"1380... it'll be cheaper in the long run..." Man Maths at it's finest!
Definitely DON'T sell Fred. Get rid of the Elise instead. I sold my similarly modified classic Mini and 10 years later I still hugely regret letting it go and have been unable to hunt it down.
Hi Jack - I don’t this video as a mess; but rather, as a sincere explanation of how you feel. I sympathize with your equivocation entirely.
My suggestion would be to hold off on selling Fred for 3 - 6 months, in order to let your feelings resolve themselves.
My first car was also under a liter.. A Fiat 850 Spyder. Second car, Lotus Europa S2, and then Europa S1. Eventually decades later, graduated to the C5 Corvette.. with many enhancements.
I tend to agree with the major sentiment of most of the comments in that you should keep Fred. I'm still in the process of rebuilding my Frogeye and I already dread the day when or if it comes time to sell.
I totally get the wobble towards the end. I hung on to my Frogeye (just an FCC/IOW but still) for several years longer than necessary because even though I hardly used it towards the end they just get under your skin and you can't imagine being without. Mine had a Peter May 1293cc engine, Type 9 box, Maniflow, etc etc and it still miss it. Replaced it with a 2.7 987 Boxster which I do love but obviously for very different reasons haha. It was the right call but a hard one! I did look into S1 Elises too because I've always wanted one but budget-wise alas for yours truly that train had sailed 😢
As you say, not sure you've hit the spot with this one! Started out talking us through the Sprite, all the expensive bits you added - engine, DCOE, gearbox but then said it is no longer as relaxed (which is what it was good at) and spent the rest of the video extolling the S1 Elise.... I have driven both and would like to own either but where does this leave me... If it were my Sprite, the 5 speed box and extra cc's would be attractive but I would have stayed with SU and flexibility at a lower cost. I think the conclusion is that either would make a great sunny day driver - but don't buy both ! BTW, helped my brother rebuild a Frogeye back in late '70s after pointing him at an advert (2 for £160). One was rebuidable, the other was a parts car that he broke to get his money back, (and some).
If you don’t sell it through the video, you could try Mathewson’s Classic Car Auctions. They have the Bangers and Cash TV series and get some great cars in every sale which is usually monthly.
I'd never be able to sell it. A story and history makes a car complete.
I understand you so well. Its hard to sell some times but it needs to have someone that use it often. Jack i agree with you about the Lotus, the S1 i only drove once as they are very rare in Portugal but is one of those cars that feels like a suit made by order for you, fits perfectly and feels like is a part of your body. Love those very very much.
I have the same problem, but with Motorcycles....and they don’t take up so much room, so you end up with 20 before you know it !
When it's time to move on, it's time to move on! Enjoy the memories, & your new adventures!
God I truely understand. I have up to 11 cars from time to time and I own a 63 sprite that I love but can never drive. I also own a Porsche 944 that is my Elise in your situation. But for me I don’t think I can ever part with my sprite as it is just a different car all together. I feel you and cars have souls that can touch us in different ways.
Exactly how I feel about my mini pickup.
Love it and have had it years but never use it but can't bring myself to sell it even though it makes no sence to keep it as a ornament in the garage....
I know the feeling Jack ! I've had my own summer car for the last 33 years. A 1988 GT, less than 80,000 km since new. Tip top condition.
Never seen winter nor much rain. But for the last 5 years, I drove it less than 1k km a year. Costs me next to nothing.
But now, at 69 y.o. I have health issues, especially my back and ankles. And it's a very low rider. Ouch !
My family tells me to sell it. But, Spring comes and it is like I've never driven it ! So sweet.
Every year, I face the same dilemma. Should I sell it this time ? 😱
So, you're much yonger than I, it costs you pennies. KEEP IT !
I can understand your feelings with the Sprite Jack, in the past, after owning more than 50 different cars in a long life, (many of those cars nice collectables), a lot of those were hard to part with. Think of them like beautiful women, who was it sang "You can't love 'em all"? Better to move on anything you're not getting any use out of. Hope "Fred" goes to a good home and the money will be handy for another project.
Hahaha, it's a mental affliction! I've far too many cars and I do exactly the same, I decide to sell then sit in them, do some man maths about investment, etc etc and then agree with myself to keep them 🙈 I am now actually putting a concerted effort in to sell some as they do weigh on your mind sitting there doing nothing, fingers crossed I can be a resolute as you were at the end.
'Fred' is what I call my Kawasaki motorcycle.
Old friend had a hound dog when I was a kid.
Dog's name was Fred.
"Come on, Fred".when he went out
It stuck.
Crank up my bike."Come on,'Fred'..let's go".
I can relate , My Zoe spider is going for something more usable ....parking space issues etc etc ...
Another Alfa will replace it, equally desirable but less “ character “ I’ll miss it , but sometimes it’s just time.
I think every car person can identify with this. I get pretty attached to cars but, honestly, I'm not sure that it has ever served me well to do so. It has pretty much always turned out to be a good idea to sell a car I'm attached to in retrospect. Of course, I say this as I battle frame rust on my Toyota FJ, so I am definitely not practicing what I preach!
Poor Fred… it’ll be like taking a faithful old dog to the vets…😫😫.
If it has to go it has to go… you will miss him but it’s the right thing to do.
You will regret selling Fred. My Midget is slow, noisy, uncomfortable, unsafe, impractical but every time I get in it I have a huge grin on my face, that no other car delivers. When you pass people in the street they stop, look, wave, and smile. Such a fun car.
That's Elises for you Jack, they get under your skin. I've had absolutely no interest in my other "fun" car (Westfield) since getting my S2 a few years ago. I only planned for it to be a temporary bit of fun but loads of goodies later I can't ever see myself selling it now.
I love that Video. I can totally understand,why you r torn back and forth. I guess a lot of your viewers were at that point once in their lifetime. So was I. I regretted a lot of Sold cars and bycicles. Good luck with that descision and thx for sharing your thoughts about that nice car
Jack - i feel your pain... i'm in exactly the same position with my MGB. i've got an intense emotional connection to her and she has such a unique story... I've hugely over-invested in her restoration and i love her... but sadly i have to let her go... she's on my channel and misery loves company as they say...
Funny Thought I just had as I was watching a video. You can take both of these cars to a local car show and many people will walk on by the Lotus but no one walks by Fred without smiling, taking a look , and often relating their own Bugeye story.
What a BRILLIANT video to define the word "indecision"!!!! Ha ha ha, Love it! :)
You do get attached to cars , I would keep fantastic little car. Excellent presentation 👍🏻
Keep it that’s a part of history and has a story. If it’s not costing that much I’d keep Fred!
Ive never heard of a frogeye sprite with an 848 engine, Im not surprised you found it slow. If it had the standard 948 engine that should have been perky enough.
If the engine is too much and not enjoyable for cruising how about a change of camshaft and going back to a pair of big SU carburetors?
If you’re ok financially, just keep it
Agh....Cracking wee car..Paul you may regret selling this further down the road.....Enjoying content as ever..Thanks..
Gutted :( Difficult decision Jack. Still miss my Triumph Herald. Someone tried to steel it once, but the throttle was only held on with a bit of wire, and fell off. Great anti-theft device 😉 Not sure, have we missed a recent video of Fred being driven with a bit more spirit?
I know how you felt. I have a motorbike I've had since 14 for 22yrs. Rode the nuts off it all over the SW, been torched once, stolen 3 times, dropped a valve once. Yet it's still here and running. I went to sell it on eBay and I ended up cancelling the auction because I couldn't part with it.
Completely understand that.