Lot details Registration No: 881 LMH Chassis No: AN5-10727 Mot Expiry: Nov 2008
Introduced in May 1958, the Austin-Healey Sprite was intended as a low-cost but high-fun sportscar. Denied a proper boot (luggage was stored behind the seats), its lightweight monocoque bodyshell was equipped with independent front suspension, a 'live' leaf-sprung back axle and four-wheel drum brakes. Powered by a 948cc four-cylinder A-series engine allied to four-speed manual transmission, the newcomer was reputedly capable of over 80mph. Rewarding yet economical to drive, it proved a four-wheeled embodiment of the phrase 'less is more'. Priced at £699 including purchase tax, the two-seater was cheaper than its Morris Minor De Luxe sibling (though, the latter won in the practicality stakes). Irrepressibly cute thanks to the stylistic fusion of Gerry Coker and Les Ireland's ideas, the 'Frogeye' Sprite has been putting smiles on faces for nearly fifty years.
According to the vendor, this particular example received an "extensive, fourteen-month long 'nut and bolt' restoration" at his hands. Completed some 2,000 miles ago, work apparently included a thorough mechanical / electrical overhaul and cosmetic refurbishment. Entrusted to Peter May Engineering, the rejuvenated gearbox has to cope with the extra power and torque generated by a non-standard 1275cc A-series four-cylinder engine (which is said to contain "race components"). Further benefiting from a front disc brake conversion, the diminutive Austin-Healey sports a Les Leston steering wheel and red leather seats. Riding on wire wheels, '881 LMH' is variously described by the seller as being in "very good" (engine, chassis, bodywork, paintwork, wheels / tyres) or "as new" (four-speed manual gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim) condition. An appealing prospect, we are informed that this sympathetically modified 'Frogeye' Sprite will possess a fresh MOT certificate by the time of sale.
PLEASE NOTE: This vehicle now comes with an MOT until November 2008.
All successful bids must be paid in full by midday the day after the auction at the latest.
You can collect your new pride and joy from our venue until 1pm the day following the sale or our partners are on hand to help arrange safe transportation:
If so, contact one of our friendly specialists for your free valuation by completing the form below and someone will get back to you as quickly as possible.
If you prefer to speak to humans, don't hesitate to call our office on +44 (0)1925 210035