1961 Austin-Healey “Bugeye” Sprite Mark I

Description

Donald Healey wanted to bring affordable sports cars to the masses leading him to create the Sprite. Entering production in March 1958, it was officially unveiled later that year during the Monte Carlo Rally, certifying its sporting intentions. Utilizing a unibody not only lowered production costs but yielded a stiffer chassis and independent front suspension with rack-and-pinion steering only added to its handling capabilities. A basic sports car with a simple yet functional design meant there was nothing there that was not necessary, resulting in even the front bumper being an optional extra! The most distinctive feature of this car is the rear-hinged hood that incorporated both front fenders with prominent headlights affixed above the grille earning its beloved ‘bugeye’ name. 

Highlights

• Powered by a 948cc inline-four with twin SU carburetors paired with a four-speed manual transmission

• Finished in white with black leather seats contrasting the red carpet and dashboard

• Equipped with period-correct lap belts

• Retains an original set of 13-inch wheels with brightly polished ‘AH’ branded hubcaps

• Reported to be a strong-running and highly original example

• Factory left-hand drive

• 39,997 miles, true mileage unknown

Features

• Solid state radio

• Fender-mounted mirrors

• Manually operated radio antenna 

• Chrome luggage rack

• White fabric soft top

• Removable side windows with sliding glass windows

• Smiths heater

• Electric wipers

Known Imperfections

• Cracks developing in the steering wheel

• Some wear is noted in the transmission synchronizers

Included

• Tools

• Spare wheel

• Trailer hitch

• Jack

Ownership History

This ‘Bugeye’ Sprite was purchased by the current owner in 2015.