Lot 323 - 1961 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk. I
| Lot Number | 323 |
| Registration | 108 CPX |
| Chassis Number | AN5 437R5 |
| Result | Sold - £17,360 |
First introduced at Monte-Carlo by the British Motor Corporation (BMC) on the 20 May 1958 and intended as a low-cost model, the Sprite was designed by the Donald Healey Motor Company, which received a royalty payment from the manufacturers BMC. The low cost of £669 was achieved by using a mildly tuned version of the A-Series engine and as many other components from existing cars as possible. The cars were manufactured at the MG sports car factory at Abingdon.
This charming example was converted to Sebring specifications in 1992 by Country Lane Classics and was the first ‘copy’ to be made. The car features a Peter May 1380 full race engine with modified cylinder head. Running with a straight cut gearbox, uprated front and rear suspension, full roll cage and carbon fibre roof, thought to be unique, it benefits from many other modifications including Willwood four pot front calipers on larger brake discs with quick release Sebring fibreglass front, steel rear end, oil cooler. This Austin-Healey has been successfully raced by the current owner with many class wins and overall victory in the Austin-Healey Championship in 2004. This exciting vehicle is eligible for many race series and makes an interesting track day car. With very little modification, the car can be returned to road going specification. It is offered for sale with a tailor made un-braked aluminium tilting trailer from the Aluminium Trailer Company.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.