1971 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk4 |

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1971 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk4

Sold Price

£6,625

Mileage~87,000
TransmissionManual
Engine1275cc
LocationBristol

SOLD

1971 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk4

I WANT ONE

Introduction

Jacob Boodrie

Professional Consigner

A creation from two exceptional automakers - the quirky Sprite Mark IV and this one is full of character.

The Mark IV Sprite was first introduced in October 1966, it received a 1275CC engine, a permanently affixed folding top which was much easier to use, separate brake and clutch master cylinder, reversing lights, an alternator, and comforting reclining seats. Enthusiasts called the collection of Sprites and Midgets, 'Spridgets'.

In 1970, a facelift was also introduced as Austin-Healey and MG became part of British Leyland. Sadly the mark 4 didn't stay around long: the end of BMC’s arrangement with Healey in 1971 meant the final few cars were badged Austin Sprite.

Austin-Healey's main focus at the time was comfort while offering good power through their A-Series Inline-4. This example has been subject to several restorations over its lifetime with the most recent rebuild carried out in 2009 by Clive, the owner for ~35 years.

This auction listing was written from information supplied by Jacob after meeting Clive the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

35 years of beloved ownership and motoring - Clive's Flame Red Sprite IV.

Clive purchased the car back ~35 years ago, after being in the market for a car to enjoy on the weekends. When he originally purchased the car it had been restored and repainted from it's original pale Blue to a British Racing Green. He thoroughly enjoyed putting miles on the car and going on many trips with his wife.

After some years passed he decided to have a full restoration carried out at the cost of ~£4,900 in 2009, along with new alloys and tyres. The car was resprayed in Flame Red, and received a new convertible hood, carpet interior, trim and seats while retaining this Sprite's original mechanical parts, yet they were serviced to ensure smooth operation.

Clive will be happy to answer any questions you may have about the car in the comments below.

Clive

Vehicle Owner

Clive saved £1,080* when they
sold their Austin Healey with us.

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EXTERIOR VIDEO

Exterior

Featuring modern styling cues which resulted in the Sprites and Midget's being dubbed "Spridgets".

Wheels and Tyres

The car sits on its Silver 13-inch alloy wheels and fitted with Nexen tyres all around.

The wheels appear in great condition along with the tyres too, both items were replaced in the restoration in 2009 and have only covered ~2,000 miles since. We did notice the very slightest area of bubbling under the paint on the nearside rear alloy.

Bodywork

Take a look at this very attractive Flame Red roadster, perfect for B road roof down drives. The bodywork on this Sprite looks to be in great condition. The panel gaps look about right for a British Leyland '70s sports car.

We have taken hi-resolution images and videos of the car for you to assess the condition of the bodywork for yourselves.

Paint

Resprayed in 2009 in 'Flame Red' which looks even and consistent with a deep shine around the car. When Clive purchased the car it was finished in a British Racing Green, and originally came off the factory line Pale Blue.

When getting really close to the bonnet, offside front wing, and around the boot area we noticed some very small areas of bubbling under the paint and where touch-up has been applied.

The images taken are from different angles and reflections to show the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. Please take the time to fully assess the condition for yourselves.

Glass and Trim

The glass looks to be in great condition all around, the black trim / rubber seals look good too and are in line with the rest of the car.

Please view the images and videos of the glass and trim to see in detail.

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INTERIOR VIDEO

Interior

The Mark IV introduced a significantly improved interior with the addition of reclining chairs.

Seats and Carpets

The 2009 restoration gave this '70's Spirte a new lease of life with the addition of new vinyl seats, carpets and trim. All of which look in great condition and represent the low mileage the car has received since.

On our visit, we didn't notice any major signs of wear and tear. The carpets and door cards also tell a similar story - please take a look at the photos and videos for a closer view.

Dashboard

The classic black vinyl dash looks in great condition, in line with the rest of the interior.

Some of the dials appear to show some mould on the glass lenses, showing the originality of the car. Take a look at the photos for a closer view. Clive reports all of the dials, switches and features are working as they should.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

Fitted with a classic black leather over metal steering wheel, Austin-Healey central hub, and gear stick - all items appear in great condition, with some light ageing marks on the wood trim of the gearstick.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO

Mechanics

Engineering brilliance - the very reliable and easy to maintain A-Series engine.

Engine and Gearbox

Clive reports a very smooth yet sporty classic drive in the little Sprite - as seen in the mechanical video. Powered by the A-Series inline-4 the car produces 65bhp.

We captured a cold start video that shows the car starting without fuss the first time. Please take a look at the detailed media pack to see a closer view of the engine bay and underneath the car.

Suspension and Brakes

Please view the images and photos to have a closer look under the car and see the suspension and brakes in more detail.

The Drive

Clive loves the raw driving experience this car offers, it's back to basics but with a sports focused ride - the car handles great on the bends and is pretty nippy on the straights.

Check out the “On The Road” video to share the brief test drive we took with Clive.

Electrics and Other

All of the standard electrical fittings are said to be fully functional.

Please take a look at the images and videos for a detailed tour of this car's exterior and interior.

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History and Paperwork

A lovely Flame Red UK RHD car that's been restored and ready for its new custodians to enjoy.

This car is coming out of a whopping ~35 years of ownership with Clive, he purchased the car after after being in the market for a weekend sport car to enjoy during the his time off. The car comes with a good amount of history charting the cars mostly leisurely life. Clive has had a restoration and respray carried out in 2009, and has covered ~2,000 miles since.

Clive will be more than happy to answer any questions you have about the car in the comments below.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a HPi check on the vehicle.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, and as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment on the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History

Date	Type	Mileage
17.06.2015	MOT	86,695
29.05.2014	MOT	88,228
05.06.2013	MOT	86,128
08.05.2012	MOT	85,975
10.05.2011	MOT	85,774
05.05.2010	MOT	85,616
17.04.2009	MOT	85,241

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Key Details

ModelSprite Mark IV
TransmissionManual
Reg. Date07.06.1971
CC1275CC
Mileage~87,000
HistoryGreat
ColourFlame Red
Interior ColourBlack
Interior TrimVinyl
Chassis #AAN1087439G
Engine #12CEDAH16828
RestoredYes
Engine RebuildYes
MOTNo Exempt
MOT ExemptYes
Road Tax ExemptYes
HPi ClearYes
Former Keepers4
LHD or RHDRHD
VisitedYes
Sale TypePrivate
Owned35 years
Key FeatureCondition
Auction ID440931

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Vehicle Sold

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Ask Questions

Seller : CliveT Sale Date 30.06.2022

Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.

1 Comment

Adam Purrier - Trade Classics

Admin

2 years ago

* RESERVE REMOVED * I’ve just spoken to Clive and he’s decided to remove the reserve. So the car will be sold to the highest bidder this evening. Good luck! Adam

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Vehicle Location

Bristol

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