Lot details Registration No: JCA697E Chassis No: HAN/968534 Mot Expiry: July 2006
Announced in October 1966, the Austin-Healey Sprite MKIV utilised the same monocoque chassis as its predecessors. Equipped with independent coil and wishbone front suspension, a 'live' rear axle, disc / drum brakes and rack and pinion steering, its adoption of a larger 1275cc twin-carburettor fed A-series engine and improved one-piece folding hood meant that it was both faster and more civilised.
Finished in British Racing Green with magnolia leather upholstery, this particular modified example is variously described by the vendor as being in good (five-speed manual gearbox, paintwork), very good (engine, electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis, bodywork) or excellent (wheels / tyres) condition. Said to have been the subject of an extensive restoration in 1995, it incorporates a number of non-standard cosmetic and mechanical upgrades. Thus, in addition to being refurbished / repainted, its bodyshell was converted to 'round wheelarch' specification and fitted with an unusual Ashley bonnet. Taken out to 1320cc, its four-cylinder unit reputedly contains a lightened / balanced / crack-tested / tuftrided crankshaft, competition shells / main bearings, Hepolite pistons / rings and an A-series competition big-valve cylinder head (complete with special tuning valve springs / gaskets). To make better use of the extra performance it carries a five-speed manual gearbox, while its suspension apparently boasts stiffer springs, uprated dampers (adjustable rears), a Panhard rod and anti-roll bar. Riding on minilite-style alloy wheels, it further benefits from minifin rear brake drums and aeroquip hoses. Trimmed in magnolia hide with green piping, its bucket seats are offset by green Wilton carpets. A striking car, it is offered for sale with full and half tonneau, black vinyl hood, Ashley hardtop, MOT certificate current until 20th July 2006 and "good history file of works / receipts".
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