1960 Austin - Healey Frogeye' Sprite

Registration: XAJ 784

Chassis:

AMS44467 Odometer: 48,000

Transmission:

Manual MOT: Exempt

Same family ownership for over 30 years

Terrific patina

Always garaged

Well maintained

A UK example registered in September 1960, the history throughout the 1960s is, like many things from the 60s, a mystery. However, we do know that by 1973 it was in need of significant refurbishment and fell into the possession of a metal fabricator who carried out an extensive ground up restoration. Putting his skills to good use, he decided to increase the gauge of the steel he used in several of the panels to improve longevity and then sprayed oil into the box sections to deter rusting. The original bonnet was replaced with a glass fibre unit, hinged forward for better access. The gearbox was uprated with the later 1275 type giving synchromesh to second third and fourth gears - the standard box would only give you third and fourth. The 948cc engine was retained and the colour was changed from the original Old English White to Turquoise. The Sprite was back on the road in 1974 and was regularly used until 1995 when it was sold to the family of the current owner, where it has remained ever since.

An early job was to change the twin 1 1/8” SU carburettors for a single 1 ½” SU with a high flow aluminium inlet manifold for easier maintenance and reliability. The rather large original steering wheel was changed for a more sporty aftermarket one that gives a bit more elbow room. The twin SUs and the original steering wheel accompany the sale.

The Frogeye also comes with a soft top, a full width tonneau cover and side screens. Perhaps the most interesting and unusual feature of this little Sprite is the hard ‘Le Mans’-style half width cover that is fitted over the passenger cockpit, we think we’ve seen this feature before but it is very rare, there’s a soft half tonneau to go with it.

The Sprite has proved to be reliable over the last 30 years, obviously it has needed some attention. Benefiting from new tyres, battery, radiator, brake and clutch master cylinders, etc. but interestingly has needed no bodywork repairs, testimony to our metalworking restorer back in 1973. Having said that, the colour was returned to the original Old English White in 2013 with the interior being re-upholstered and carpeted shortly afterwards.

This little Frogeye is ready to go and very useable, and offers a chance to experience how cars have changed in 66 years!