HIGHLIGHTS
- Fully restored between 2000/2004
- Uprated engine
- Extremely well presented
THE APPEAL
Conceived from the parts bin in the 1950s, BMC (British Motor Corporation) certainly struck gold with the design of the low-slung affordable British sports car. Famous for its headlight design which was initially designed to be mechanical and flip the lights over when not in use, this idea was ditched for a cost-cutting exercise, and the “Frogeye” was born.
This superb example has been with the vendor for the past ten years, where it has been regularly used little and often, as can be seen from the MOT history. It was restored over a four-year period between 2000 and 2004; since then, it has covered approximately 9,000 miles.
The car looks to be in great condition inside, outside and the underside, and presents exceptionally well in all areas. It has been regularly serviced, which is logged in the paperwork, and the car is running as it should be. Unfortunately, a downsize in a collection by the vendor means this wonderful Frogeye is looking for a new home.
This superb example has been with the vendor for the past ten years, where it has been regularly used little and often, as can be seen from the MOT history. It was restored over a four-year period between 2000 and 2004; since then, it has covered approximately 9,000 miles.
The car looks to be in great condition inside, outside and the underside, and presents exceptionally well in all areas. It has been regularly serviced, which is logged in the paperwork, and the car is running as it should be. Unfortunately, a downsize in a collection by the vendor means this wonderful Frogeye is looking for a new home.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
- V5 is present
- Registered 21st June 1979
- Manufactured 1960
- Imported from jersey in 1974
- Owned since May 2013
- Little but regular use for several years
- Invoices are said to show regular servicing
- 19 previous MOT certificates
- Just 1,000 miles covered in the past six years
- 9,000 miles since the restoration was completed
- MOT carried out on 26th May 2022
- Recent MOT passed with no advisories
- Sale due to downsizing collection
THE INTERIOR
- Well presented interior
- Blue velour seats in very good condition
- Blue trimmed dashboard
- Instruments are said to be working correctly
- Odometer shows 8,617 miles
- Carpets in very good condition
- Motor-Lita wood rim steering wheel with Austin Healey centre
- Austin Healey gear knob
- Switchgear has a small amount of age related wear
THE EXTERIOR
- Full respray from Red to Iris Blue during the restoration
- Extremely well presented externally, and the underside
- Panel gaps align nicely
- The headlights are in excellent condition
- Brightwork all around is in excellent condition with minimal signs of tarnishing
- Excellent windscreen frame
- The windscreen is free from any noticeable scratches
- Double duck tonneau cover
- Wet weather gear, including side windows
- Minator Alloy wheels in good condition
- Tyres have a good amount of tread remaining
THE MECHANICS
- 1250cc engine
- Front disc brakes
- Oil cooler fitted
- High torque starter motor
- Electronic ignition
- Electric radiator fan
- Reported to run as it should
- Starts first time
- No issues are reported with the brakes
SUMMARY
Finished in Iris Blue, the 1960 Austin Healey Sprite looks superb. To recap, the Sprite was restored between 2000 and 2004 when the 1250 engine was fiotted (original engine available). Since then, just 9,000 miles have been covered, and the car has been well maintained.
This a fantastic opportunity for anyone wanting to take over the ownership of a British classic with a considerable following, and a car that never fails to turn heads driving down the road. This is back to basics motoring, where you can feel the car and enjoy the thrill of a true British sports car.
This a fantastic opportunity for anyone wanting to take over the ownership of a British classic with a considerable following, and a car that never fails to turn heads driving down the road. This is back to basics motoring, where you can feel the car and enjoy the thrill of a true British sports car.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
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