In 1966 John Sprinzel had the inspiration to create a mini-rally MGB GT by adding an alloy fastback to a Mk II Midget. The conversion was caried out by W&P, and the car, complete with a Sprinzel Stage 2 engine conversion, formed the centrepiece of the Sprinzel stand sporting Pirelli Cintuarto tyres. Steve Ford, known as Henry at Sprinzels, got in touch to tell us about it:
"Enjoyed viewing your website and as an employee of John Sprinzel from 1965 to
1975 met many of the people and cars featured. One car not yet mentioned is the W &
P bodied Midget Sprinzel's of Lancaster Mews exhibited at the Racing Car Show in
1966. It was styled on the lines of the MGB GT that had sold well since it's
introduction in 1965. It was finished in a dark metallic green and retained the
original windscreen assembly with a fixed roof and flat boot lid. It was quite
attractive and created interest at the show but failed to sell until later ... Incidently the SMT registered W & P demonstrator
was a car supplied by Sprinzel's when I worked there ... the conversion was made in aluminium and grafted onto the rear of the car. It was
John's inspiration and the shape reflected that of the MGB GT. Only the show
car was ever made. It kept the original windscreen and frame. I recall the
original hood clips were retained on the top of the windscreen inside the car.
The car attracted quite a bit of interest but did not sell that easily. After
the Racing Car Show was over it was taken back to Lancaster Mews and it was
some time before it was sold to Peter Thorne who lived in Loughton, Essex at
that time. Later he was to dabble in the motor trade but I do not know when he
sold the Midget GT or who bought it. It's a shame we didn't sell more. I wonder what
happened to it?"
The official guide entry for John Sprinzel Racing's stand 37 at the UK Racing Car Show 1966 states:
"[Sprinzel] have long been world famous for specialised versions of BMC sports cars. Their latest model - based on the MG Midget, is on display and features Stage 2 engine with cylinder head modifications Weber carburation special Mag-alloy wheels and Pirrelli Cinturato tyres."
John Sprinzel has commented that this was a car he particularly loved, and we hope to have some further comments from him in due course.
The car was written about in the MG Car Club's magazine "Safety Fast" in April 1966 where W&P are acknowledged as the builders.
It is believed that the car was successfully rallied in later years alhough it is not known who by, or whether the car survives. If you have any further information about this car, please get in touch.
