A charming example of the iconic “Frogeye” Sprite, this 1960 car presents well overall and is finished in ever-desirable Old English White over a Red vinyl interior — a colour combination that perfectly complements the car’s playful character. Owned by The Vendor for the past six years and showing just 4 former keepers, the Sprite displays 38,772 miles, believed to be correct. Notably equipped with a factory hard top, this example offers added versatility and year-round usability. It benefits from uprated headlights and carburettors to enhance practicality and drivability, while the original steering wheel is included in the sale alongside the currently fitted alternative item and a waterproof cover.
The car presents as an honest and usable example, clearly enjoyed and maintained throughout its life. The uprated carburettors provide improved responsiveness from the lively A-Series engine, while the enhanced lighting improves confidence for modern road use. The inclusion of the factory hard top is a particularly desirable feature.
Accompanying the vehicle is an extensive and impressive history file. This includes period photographs, an original green logbook, and a comprehensive collection of factory literature: Austin Healey Sprite Driver’s Handbook, Austin Healey Sprite Special Tuning Handbook, Schedule of Repair Charges, Service Parts Catalogue, Austin Healey Sprite & MG Midget Parts Catalogue and an Original Austin Healey “Frogeye” Sprite sales brochure. In addition, there are countless invoices for parts, servicing and maintenance, an insurance valuation from 2005 valuing the car at £8,000, and MOT certificates dating back to 1995.
The Austin-Healey Sprite was launched in 1958 as an affordable, lightweight sports car designed so that “a chap could keep it in his bike shed.” Announced at Monte Carlo just after the Monaco Grand Prix, it was built by the Donald Healey Motor Company with production at MG’s Abingdon works. Originally priced at £669, the Sprite utilised a tuned Austin A-Series engine and shared components to keep costs down. Its most distinctive feature — the upright bonnet-mounted headlights — earned it the affectionate “Frogeye” nickname in the UK. Intended originally to feature retractable lamps, cost-saving measures led to their fixed position, inadvertently creating one of the most recognisable and iconic front-ends in British motoring history.
'Frogeye' Sprites remain among Britain’s most beloved compact sports cars, prized for their simplicity, engaging driving dynamics and unmistakable charm. With desirable points including a factory hard top, believed-correct mileage, tasteful usability upgrades and a superb accompanying history file, this example represents an excellent opportunity for enthusiasts.
Commission rates:
Minimum £150+VAT
6%+VAT thereafter
2.5%+VAT for vehicles over £50,000
Zero entry fee period closes 03/04/2026
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