Photos provided by the vendor
Highlights
- Racecar build including 1275cc engine upgrade
- Rare Ashley Fastback hardtop
- Very good, clean looking car
- Professional conversion from RHD to LHD - the RH dash is included in the sale.
The Appeal
A charming design, the Austin Healey Frogeye Sprite is an icon of British motoring history. Despite living much of its life in Denmark as a track car, this 1959 example has returned to the UK and presents itself in quite the unique condition.
A tuned engine and many chassis modifications set this car apart from many while the rare, Ashley Fastback hardtop it comes with certainly makes it desirable. As a whole it is in very good shape with just a few minor defects in places which could easily be ironed out.
The car comes with the RHD dash for anyone wanting to change it back which the seller says is a relatively easy quick job for a competent fitter.
The car comes with the RHD dash for anyone wanting to change it back which the seller says is a relatively easy quick job for a competent fitter.
History and Paperwork
- First manufactured in 1959
- Supplied to W Varney Garage Ltd, Jersey
- Exported to Denmark and converted into LHD track car
- Same family owners from 1963 until 2019
- Returned to the UK in 2019 with new V5
- Comes with BMHIT Certificate
- Sale includes hardtop and soft top roof
- RHD dashboard with car
- V5c included
The Interior
- Wood rim steering wheel and modernised gear knob look fresh
- Recently fitted new carpets look great
- Leather seats show some signs of use, but in good overall condition
- Converted to left-hand drive upon registration in Denmark
- Original right-hand drive dashboard still with the car, reconversion said to be straight forward
- No apparent issues with onboard instruments
- Some wear and tear to door cards
- Optional extras from new include heater, rev counter and windscreen washers
The Exterior
- Originally white car painted red circa 1963
- Sale includes rare low line original Ashley Fastback hard top with glass rear window
- Original steel bonnet
- New soft top hood and tonneau
- Gorgeous Frogeye Sprite styling
- Tyres have plenty of tread
- Very clean underneath according to the vendor
- Original floors
- Front bumper delete, optional extra from factory
- Some minor defects in Red paint, looks good overall however
- Signs of age around side screens
The Mechanics
- Track car build includes:
- 1275cc tuned engine upgrade
- Ribbed 4-speed manual transmission with synchromesh
- Disc-brake conversion with servo assistance
- Front anti-roll bar
- Car sounds great according to the vendor
Summary
This 1959 Austin Healey Frogeye Sprite has travelled throughout Europe in many different guises, ultimately ending up back in the UK.
Currently a track-ready classic in left-hand drive format, the original right-hand drive dashboard comes with the car, and we are told a reconversion isn’t a major job. Under the bonnet sits a tuned 1275cc engine as part of its racing pedigree.
Currently a track-ready classic in left-hand drive format, the original right-hand drive dashboard comes with the car, and we are told a reconversion isn’t a major job. Under the bonnet sits a tuned 1275cc engine as part of its racing pedigree.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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