Close window
Print details

Austin Sprite MkIV

Austin Sprite MkIV

Click Here for Full Screen Image - Click Here to Download Image

Austin Sprite MkIVAustin Sprite MkIVAustin Sprite MkIVAustin Sprite MkIVAustin Sprite MkIV
Austin Sprite MkIV
Lot number 20
Hammer value £4,200
Description Austin Sprite MkIV
Registration CAA 207K
Year 1971
Colour Bronze Yellow
Engine size 1,275 cc
Chassis No. AAN1087193G
Engine No. 12CEDAH15869
Documents V5C; MOT June 2016; maintenance invoices

Following the success of the original Donald Healey-designed 'Frogeye', BMC decided to revamp and expand the Austin-Healey Sprite range in 1961, modernising the car with sharper front and rear styling in place of the bulbous look of old and and providing an opening boot at last.

By 1966 the final MkIV version of the Sprite arrived with a more luxurious interior and, most importantly, a twin carb 1275cc version of the proven A-Series engine, which it shared with other BMC sporting models such as the Mini Cooper S. With 65bhp on tap it could propel the little Sprite to a top speed of 94mph, although these cars are such fun to drive you always feel you are going twice as fast as you really are! Another major improvement was the addition of a proper folding hood – previous models making do with a separate hood cover and frame.

To save on royalty costs, BL declined to renew its association with Donald Healey in the last year of production, so the final 1,022 Sprites built in 1971 were badged simply as "Austin Sprites". Mechanically identical to the MkIV they are the rarest of all the Sprites and are readily distinguished by a matt black radiator grille, 8-hole Rostyle wheels and a chassis number beginning AAN10.

First registered in August 1971, this Austin Sprite looks particularly appealing in Bronze Yellow and is described as being "in very good condition throughout and a pleasure to drive following an engine rebuild less than 1,000 miles ago".

It comes with many bills back to 2003 to show regular maintenance including new brake discs and pads and rebuilt front suspension. It also has 17 old MOT certificates back to 1991 (at 67,454 miles) and the c.74,200 miles now displayed is believed by the vendor to be the genuine distance covered from new. Ready to roll with an MOT until June 2016, this is a most attractive and rare little sportscar that is ready for immediate use.

Close window
Print details