1959 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk1

Highlights

• Older restoration that still presents nicely
• In current ownership for around nine years
• Recently rebuilt 1,275cc engine
• Accompanied by an extensive history file

The Appeal

Thanks to its friendly face, simple mechanics and distinctly budget-conscious pricing, the Sprite brought the British sports car segment into a bigger market than ever. Conceived as a machine that a driver could keep in his bike shed, the Frogway is as charming as it is easy-to-keep, and has become something of a British icon. It's of little surprise that we've still got so much affection for them more than sixty years later.

This 1959 example, finished in white, has been in the current owner's care for around nine years and has been used and enjoyed throughout that time as a usable classic rather than left to gather dust. Under the bonnet sits a recently rebuilt 1,275cc engine mated to a sports exhaust, which the vendor states starts readily and delivers lively performance.
An extensive history file of invoices and receipts documents the ongoing maintenance the car has received. We understand that this lovely little sports car is ready and waiting to go with its lucky new keeper, who will no doubt find it a very rewarding classic.

Key Information

• Mileage: 65,000 miles (indicated)
• Country of registration: United Kingdom
• Technical inspection status: MOT exempt
• Technical specs: 1,275cc inline four-cylinder petrol, four-speed manual
• Paperwork: Extensive history file of invoices and receipts

The Detail

• Previously subject to an older restoration
• Recently rebuilt 1,275cc engine; the vendor states it starts readily and runs strongly
• Interior re-trimmed and presenting well
• Discreet heating elements fitted to the seats
• Carpets and trim present well throughout
• Mota-Lita steering wheel fitted; original steering wheel included with the sale
• Dashboard clean and tidy with period instrumentation
• Sports exhaust fitted
• Gearbox reported to operate smoothly
• Suspension and brakes described by the vendor as working well
• The vendor describes the bodywork as in good, honest condition with solid panel fit
• Paintwork presents well
• Some minor blistering noted on the top seams, described by the vendor as relatively small and straightforward to address
• Glass, brightwork and trim in good order for a classic of this age
• Steel wheels with tyres in good condition and plenty of tread remaining

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:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.

✓ Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalised, or heritage vehicle registration is not included in the sale of a vehicle.