Featured on AutoHunter, the online auction platform driven by ClassicCars.com, is this 1961 Austin-Healey Bugeye Sprite.
This Bug Eye Sprite was repainted blue during the previous ownership. The blue exterior is complemented by replacement chrome brightwork, including the dual sideview mirrors, windshield trim, and the grille surround.
It rides on a set of silver-finished 13-inch Minator alloy wheels with AH-branded center caps and Aspen Touring A/S tires. The listing states that the tires have accrued less than 500 miles since installation.
“The two-seat interior is furnished with black vinyl bucket seats, matched to the door panels, dashboard, and new carpeting,” the listing states. “The horn wiring was redone by the seller, and cockpit amenities include a wooden shift knob, lap belts, and a dash-mounted rearview mirror. The seller reports that new windshield washer parts have been installed but no fluid has been added and the system has not been checked.”
Under the hood is a rebuilt 1,275cc inline-four engine, sourced from a later-model vehicle, that’s been bored to 1,302cc. The engine was upgraded with a new Weber 45 DCOE carburetor, a replacement coil, spark plug wires, a new wiring harness, a rebuilt upgraded distributor, and more. Under prior ownership the drivetrain received a new exhaust header and a clutch master cylinder.
The engine is paired with a rebuilt late-model four-speed manual transmission and a rebuilt differential with hardened half-shafts.
New front disc and rear drum brakes, replacement rear springs, a new rear sway bar, and a new brake master cylinder were installed under prior ownership.
The sale includes a clear New York title in the seller’s name, service records, and owner’s and repair manuals. Additional spare parts included with the sale are a disassembled 1,275cc engine, Weber carburetor jets, a dual SU carburetor setup with K&N air filters, a new Robbins top, hardware for a tilt-forward hood conversion, and more.
A series of videos showing exterior, interior, and driving footage were provided by the seller and are available on AutoHunter. The mechanical odometer reads 68K miles, but the gauge cluster has been replaced and the true mileage on the chassis is unknown.
This 1961 Austin-Healey Bugeye Sprite’s auction ends on Friday, November 4, 2022, at 11:20 a.m. (PDT)
Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and photo gallery
