1959 Austin Healey Sprite Bug Eye
$24,500
1959 Austin Healey "Bug Eye" Sprite
Researching the historical perspective of the Austin Healey Sprite was Eye Opening (pun intended). The Austin Healey Sprite is better known as the Bug Eye here in the USA and Frog Eye in the United Kingdom. But back to the research: Very few know that this was the first production Uni-Body chassis ever produced. It's actually a Semi-monocoque design which basically means that the body parts are the Chassis. It is Semi because the front Bonnet or Hood is not part of the chassis structure. This is a very stiff design that is used today in most automobiles. The designer also initially intended that the headlights would swivel upwards but the accountants at BMC (the Mother Company) would nix that and they were kept fixed in the up position. It did not take long for the nickname to stick as the design looks like a smiling frog with its eyes Bugging out. It also did not take long for success to come on the Race-Track. With such a strong chassis, Rack and Pinion Steering and a low center of gravity, Bug-Eyes were winning in the Sports Car Club of America H Production class.
Our Bug Eye comes from a collector who, like many, is paring down his collection. This example is like most in the fact that the original small 948 cc engine has been replaced by the bigger 1275 cc 4 cylinder. At just under 1500 total pounds, the power to weight ratio makes for a real sporting roadster. Over the years it has been updated with front disc brakes and a nice restoration. With the Brookland Windscreens and the aforementioned updates, it may not be totally original but rest assured it is a blast to drive.and looks great.
At Motorcar Gallery we have a great selection of Automobiles from Exotics to Classics to American Muscle. Each vehicle in our inventory is carefully selected to meet very demanding specifications. We have financing and leasing options available and trades are always welcome. Shipping globally is also easily arranged. Please ask us about our Automobile Storage options. Call us today for more information on this car or any of the other services we have available at 954-522-9900
Engine
Body
- Body Color
- Red
- Body Style
- Roadster
Basic
- Year
- 1959
- Make
- Austin Healey
- Model
- Sprite
- Miles
- 14,357
Interior
- Interior Color
- Black
- Seat Material
- Vinyl
- Transmission Type
- 4 Speed
- Body Style
- Roadster
- Miles
- 14,357
- Vin
- AN5L17234
- Stock
- 2672C