1,275-Powered 1960 Austin-Healey Bugeye Sprite

Description

The Austin-Healey Sprite MkI — known affectionately as the Bugeye for its fixed, upward-staring headlights — was introduced in 1958 as the most affordable British sports car of its era. Designed by Donald Healey and built by BMC, it was stripped to its essentials: a lightweight monocoque body, fixed headlights, and the absence of exterior door handles, trunk lid, or roll-up windows. These were not compromises so much as commitments to the lightweight formula, and the resulting car weighed just over 1,300 pounds in standard trim.

This 1960 Bugeye Sprite is finished in white over a black vinyl interior and rides on wire spoke knock-off wheels. The original A-Series engine has been replaced with a 1,275cc unit fitted with a downdraft Weber carburetors and an aftermarket exhaust header, and the vehicle is fitted with front disc brakes from a later model Sprite.

Acquired in 2022, servicing during the seller's ownership includes suspension and brake work, various seals and bushings, and a clutch replacement, and more, including a modern alternator and electronic ignition conversion.

This 1960 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk I is offered with an uninstalled 1,275cc engine, spare SU carburetors, a tonneau cover, service records, and a clean California title in the seller's name.

Highlights

• 1,275cc engine with downdraft Weber aftermarket exhaust header

• Spare 1,275cc engine included — unknown condition

• Alternator conversion and electronic ignition

• Front disc brakes from a later model Sprite

• White over black vinyl interior

Factory Equipment

• Monocoque body construction

• 4-speed manual transmission

• Rack-and-pinion steering

• Wire spoke wheels

• Fold-flat windscreen

• "Bugeye" fixed headlights

Modifications

• 1,275cc A-Series engine

• Downdraft Weber carburetor

• Aftermarket exhaust header

• Alternator conversion

• Electronic ignition

• Front disc brakes

Servicing & Documentation

Highlights from the included service invoice from June 2023 include replacement of the following (see gallery for full details):

• Clutch, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing

• Rear main seal

• Various transmission seals

• Engine and transmission mounts

• Shock absorbers

• Various suspension bushings

• Fuel pump

• Fuel gauge and sender

• Various brake lines

• Steering rack boots

• Brake master cylinder

• Clutch slave cylinder

• Brake shoes, adjustment screws, and emergency brake cable

• Ignition switch housing and tumbler

Known Imperfections

• Various paint chips, scratches, and corrosion

• Tachometer inoperative

• Intermittent clicking noise from rear

• Ignition switch knob cracked — repaired with adhesive

• Various wear on upholstery

Ownership History

This 1960 Austin-Healey Bugeye Sprite was acquired by the seller in February 2022, reportedly from the second owner of 58 years. The vehicle is said to have been registered in California since new.

Included Items

• Uninstalled 1,275cc engine (the seller reports that the condition is unknown)

• Uninstalled SU carburetors