1962 Austin-Healey Sprite Roadster

Austin-Healey introduced the Sprite at the Monte Carlo Grand Prix weekend in 1958. This sports car utilized parts from BMC econoboxes and did not even had a trunk lid. The luggage had to be loaded through the cockpit. Even with these inconveniences, they soon became an object of affection and brought a new level of motoring at a very affordable price. The first editions were called the Frogeye, because of the unfortunate location of the headlights. The headlights were supposed to be retractable, but remained fixed as a cost saving measure. Austin-Healey introduced an updated version in 1961, with headlights in a more traditional position. This Mark II version also added an exterior trunk lid at the rear, and front disc brakes. A badge-engineered MG Midget was introduced the same year and was nearly identical to the Healey.

This 1962 Mark II has been given a restoration that was completed in 2009. It is powered by a 998cc engine and has a red exterior finish with a black interior and narrow white walls.

In 2011, the car was offered for sale at the Quail Lodge in Carmel, California, presented by Bonhams auction. It was offered without reserve and sold for the sum of $18,720 inclusive of buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2011