There’s something slightly ironic about the Austin-Healey Sprite Mk 4.
Introduced in 1967, the fourth-generation of Sprite was spawned from the MG Midget in the very same way that the original 1961 Midget was born out of the first-generation Sprite.
With its conventional bonnet and simpler pop-up bonnet, the Midget was a much easier car to build than the ‘Frogeye’ Sprite on which it was based, and thus when the newly formed British Leyland Motor Company set about a round of rationalisation in 1967, the Sprite was brought into line with its MG sister model, with little difference between the cars other than their badges.
The benefit for Sprite buyers was the introduction of a 65bhp 1,275cc engine – the largest A-Series derivative and one which gave the little sports car an eager turn of pace thanks to its featherweight bodywork.
It would carry on that way until 1971, when the relationship between Austin and Healey drew to a close and the model was dropped altogether.
The car we have here is one of the very last - a 1971 Sprite in fantastic restored condition. It was comprehensively rebuilt in the late 2000s with multiple new panels and a full bare metal respray.
Since 2011, the Sprite has been part of a private car collection and has seen very occasional use, but has been stored in a dry building and regularly started.Ev02ym8ORvIzhIw8v8jm7E7CrXFr5TbOEyTuQ5BI.jpeg1.61 MB
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
Fully restored in late 2000s
UK V5C
Photographs from restoration
Copy of old sales advert
Copies of old V5s
British Motor Heritage Certificate
Originally supplied to HR Saunders Austin in Northampton
Was Bronze Yellow originally, but restored in Tartan Red
This is a lovely example of a very late Sprite Mk IV, restored several years ago but carefully stored and minimally used over the past decade.
It’s a great example of a well-loved classic that’s also something a bit different from a Midget – a really fun and characterful little car that will be a joy to own.
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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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