Vendor supplied images
Highlights
- Powered by the rare and collectable Mercury Thunderbolt 50 horsepower engine with its original control unit and fuel tank
- Comprehensively restored hull with a reupholstered cockpit
- Retains its original trailer which has also been restored and equipped with a new winch, jockey wheel, straps and light bar
The Appeal
While we all know the name Donald Healey for his capable sports cars, we’ll bet some of you didn’t know that he also dabbled in boatbuilding. The aptitude Healey had for extracting performance from cars clearly transferred to the water as his craft were renowned for their turn of speed - even being used by the great Donald Campbell as support vessels for some of his runs on Coniston.
Here we have a beautifully restored Healey Sprite that’s complete with its original bunk trailer. Refinished in the Austin Healey colours of Obelia blue (100S) and Iris Blue (Sprite), this is a very handsome craft that’s in utterly wonderful condition. It’s powered by a period 50 horsepower Mercury Thunderbolt outboard motor which is also in lovely order for its age. The vendor demonstrates that the Healey Sprite performs well, easily planing and handling very smoothly.
We think it would be the ultimate accessory for any Austin Healey owner or enthusiast.
The History and Paperwork
- Comprehensively restored
- Hull dated 1961, with the engine being of a similar vintage
The Interior
- Seated helm position against the starboard gunwale
- Features two moulded bucket seats with upholstered inserts as per original specifications
- The upholstery is in excellent order and has hardly been used
- The original Mercury control box is mounted to the floor between the two seats
- Equipped with a sporting wood-rimmed steering wheel which is in very good condition
- Twin cockpit layout although there is no seating aft
- Furnished with a picnic basket and blanket
- Textured GRP flat floor for better grip
- Equipped with a Smiths dashboard clock
- The dashboard also bears a Sprite badge, as seen on certain Healey cars
The Exterior
LOA - 13’ 6”
Beam - 6’ 2”
Draught 6” (approximately)
- Glass fibre construction
- Cathedral hull design keeping the Sprite stable on the plane
- Curved windscreen which does exhibit a couple of cracks
- Refinished in the Austin Healey colours of Obelia blue (100S) and Iris Blue (Sprite)
- Chromed cleats, ski mirror and rub rail end caps
- The hull is presented in excellent overall condition besides the slight windscreen damage
- Complete with fenders
- The original bunk trailer remains in very good order and is fitted with a new winch and jockey wheel
- Supplied with a new plastic light board
The Mechanics
- 50 horsepower Mercury Thunderbolt
- Longshaft
- Electric start
- Four-cylinder two-stroke
- We’re informed that the engine runs well and the impeller pumps water correctly
- Retains its original control box which is said to select forward and reverse correctly
- The propellor presents very well with no significant wear or damage
- The vendor demonstrates that this outboard - boat combination is very capable, with ample performance once planing
- Optima red top battery with master switch
- We understand the trailer’s wheel bearings be in good order
- The winch, jockey wheel and light board are quite new so should function correctly
Summary
This is a very stylish classic boat and the perfect accessory for any Donald Healey fan. Restored to an exceptional standard and ready to use, we’re sure this boat’s next owner will have a great time out on the water.
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes. On request, Car & Classic may refer you to a third-party shipping company. For more details, email auctions@carandclassic.com. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders.
