1971 | Austin-Healey Sprite Mk IV

Only 1,022 Austin Sprites were ever made making this an exceptionally rare car among its peers of British Leyland Roadsters. Of those made, there are only 103 records of cars in varying condition known to The Austin Sprite AAN10 Register. Due to the expiration of the 20-year agreement with Mr Donald Mitchell Healey of Healey Motor Company, the Healey part of the name was dropped from the model although BL decided to continue production of what was the Sprite MKIV. Powered by a redesigned version of the A-series 1275 engine found in the Mini Cooper, these Austin Sprites proved more reliable than the Mini. The Austin Sprite production ran concurrently with the MG Midget MKiii but was withdrawn for export therefore all examples were for destined the UK Market.

BHO 250J is a delightful example of the Austin Sprite, on the road performance is brilliant and the presentation is that of a very tidy and usable weekend roadster. Although the chromework suffers from some pitting, the shine offered is still a lovely contrast against the deep Blue paint of the body panels. Sitting on wire wheels, the Sprite is very nicely finished. The interior offers very well-kept Navy Vinyl seats complemented by Navy trim found on the gear gaiter and centre console. For the driver, a wood rim steering wheel finishes off the cockpit extremely well. Under the bonnet, the Austin is presented exceptionally with clean inner arches and bulkhead. If caught in poor weather, the black vinyl soft top is in very good condition and erects with ease.

This spritely classic sportscar comes to us in part exchange from a customer changing into a prewar car for a new adventure. Since 2007, the Austin has covered a mere 5,000 miles, taking the total odometer reading to 65,000. The previous owner has enjoyed many days at the Goodwood Revival festival and local events with this very rare British Leyland Roadster. Though little mileage was covered each year, the classic car enthusiast owner carried out an annual oil and filter change. Upon it's arrival with us, the Sprite was treated £3,000 worth of preparation including a full engine service an ignition service, a thorough brake service, a full set of new pirelli tyres, a new steering rack, was MOT tested.

This roadster is one that was built for the winding roads of picturesque countrysides. The in-line 4 engine pulls smoothly through the rev range producing a delightfully sporty exhaust note. After smoothly transitioning through the 4-speed gearbox, the Sprite comfortably sits at the national speed limit perfect for those longer excursions. With the curbweight being so light, the handling and stopping power feel perfectly balanced with the performance of the 1275 powerplant. Overall, this Austin Sprite makes for a tidy and fun Roadster with the added benefit of rarity among an otherwise plentiful market.