A Sprite's Shortcomings

Sir,

I first discovered that girls like sports cars. Secondly, that an Austin Healey Sprite was the best that I could afford. There is no doubt in their little minds when I offer its services to run them home.

With safety harness that I neglect to explain the release of, and door handles that only an expert can find, a hard-top securely in place, I look set for a good hour or so. But no! What a design! It must be the most anti-necking car in existence. The transmission tunnel is the most formidable obstacle, even if she’s willing. I don’t think I should mention the position of the handbrake. I ask you ? What good is performance, road-holding, etc., if you’re up against it when you get there? And with windows ready to steam up there is always the danger of the lurking Law. You spend a whole evening, chatting to some female, all to no avail.

Sometimes I think I am getting too old for it all. Any suggestions?

I am, Yours, etc., “Pierre” (23 years old).  London.

 [These are shortcomings of the Sprite we have not encountered, having reached the age when girls do not encourage us to run them home in sports cars. The best car for a pick-up is of more interest and one day we may expound on its special requirements. But it is nice to hear both sides of an argument, so perhaps girls who ride in sports cars will tell us whether or not they share this correspondent’s opinion of the Sprite. After which we turn him over to “Auntie May,” who writes: “Are you sure, Pierre, that girls accept lifts in your sports car because of your charm or merely because they are already aware of the safety factors? Try to forget the safety harness and floor gear-lever. Then you can be sure of a young lady’s true love and affection. You will want a little flat as well as a little sports car, and I wish you both every happiness.”—Ed]