Spridget door modification ?

[CompoSimmonite]

I've got a 1972 Austin Sprite (post Healey agreement - one of the 82 know to exist out of the 1022 produced) that is in need of gentle restoration. It hasn't been messed with before so everything is "textbook". Originally I bought it off eBay with intention of converting to an Arkley then found out it was registered incorrectly as an Austin Healey instead of just Austin. DVLA say no problem changing V5 when back on the road.
One problem I have is getting in and out due to the small doors
Not my car but shows the door size -

Many years ago I had a late Midget and at the time there was a company who modified the car to have longer doors so am considering doing the same with my Sprite.
The Lotus Elan has the style of doors I'm thinking of using-

Before anybody cries sacrilege I should add I've tried selling the car in the past to finance something else with no takers and just silly offers so now it's a case of adapting and selling / buying something else isn't an option I'm considering any more.
Plan is to change inner and outer sills (still basically solid although starting to deteriorate) for straight items without the upturned section at the end (which is a left over aspect from the Frogeye as the front was hinged at the windscreen end) like this -

The bulkhead sides will be replaced with probably slightly thicker gauge. Then new A post attached with fabricated section to the edge of where the old A post met the windscreen.
Obviously wings would need modifying - possibly eliminating the gaps that are standard between the a post, scuttle and sill ?
Then there is the door ! Mine are solid so I MIGHT buy a pair needing work to alter instead. Another option is using fibreglass doors are they are available quite reasonably.
Forget BIVA aspect at present - I know it'd be applicable.
Any views, suggestions, advice etc - all appreciated.

Paul H

 

[atomant48]

Sounds like a massive (but interesting!) undertaking. If its just more space to get in, Have you considered:

1. Putting some different seat attachments in to allow you to slide the seat right back? I've got a feeling those seats are hinged and don't slide as standard. There might not be clearance to the rear bulkhead either.

2. Using a pull off steering wheel. You can get kits like a F1 car. Good anti theft device too!

Just some thoughts. I'm not against chopping up a car though - will watch your progress with interest.

 

[Robotstar5]

What about moving the hinges to the rear? suicide door

 

[CompoSimmonite]

I did consider suicide doors but after examining the door aperture and my disability realised the extra length was needed.
A detachable steering wheel is already planned I tried removing the wheel and the difference it makes for entry and exit with roof up / hardtop in place is amazing.
Seat slides backwards and forwards but even at most rearmost position and hard up against the rear bulkhead / heelboard it still doesn't give me enough room to get in and out any easier.
The car actually only cost me £350 around 5 years ago which was cheap even then for a tax exempt Spridget. In fact it could easily be put on the road with localised patching rather than needed any restoration. Sills are orginal both inner and outer as are floorpans and A posts. They are however getting tatty and as I say need various small repairs so I'd prefer to do the job properly and once only !
Spot the different -

Other than badges there is no difference between an Austin Sprite and an Austin Healey Sprite !

Paul H