Lot Ended
Description
Benefiting
from a 1098cc A-series Austin Healey Sprite engine and gearbox with an unleaded
cylinder head; later 9-inch Wolseley drum brakes and servo assistance; larger
S.U. carburettor
This car has been in
private ownership since 2004. The previous owner had kept it in very good
original condition, and the current vendor has since carried out sympathetic
upgrades to make it more suitable for modern traffic while preserving its period
character. It is now fitted with a 1098cc A-series Austin Healey Sprite engine
and gearbox with an unleaded cylinder head, as well as a slightly larger S.U.
carburettor. The braking system has been enhanced with later 9-inch Wolseley
drum brakes, servo assistance, and a revised 3.9-ratio differential. Wider
Morris van wheels, an anti-roll bar, and a discreet USB charging port have also
been added.
At purchase, the odometer showed
30,000 miles (the original unit, now in the boot, was replaced with one showing
similar mileage). After a thorough inspection, the vendor considered this figure
entirely plausible. The car shows no signs of structural repairs, and the inner
sills still retain their original factory wax protection. The bodywork remains
sound, with more recently applied paint that presents well aside from a few
minor blemishes. The front wings and boot lid were also replaced during this
period. The interior remains original and in excellent condition, save for a
parted seam on the driver’s seat; a rear-seat cover is supplied should the buyer
wish to assist with the repair.
A new battery has
recently been fitted, and the car starts instantly and runs very well after
being driven here over 15 miles. It offers lively performance and surprisingly
capable handling for its era. The car is being offered for sale only because the
owner has taken on a new project to keep himself occupied in
retirement.
Please contact
james.booth@brightwells.com