How bidding works
All you need to know about the bidding process on Car & Classic
1971 Austin Sprite
Highlights
- Comprehensively restored 2011
- Lightly used and carefully stored since
- Lovely condition
- MOT to Mar 2024
The Appeal
The diminutive Austin Sprite exudes an undeniable charm, evoking a nostalgic sense of simpler times and carefree adventures. Its compact size and timeless design, combined with peppy performance and nimble handling, mean that this British classic promises exhilarating top-down drives along winding country roads.
This example was the subject of a comprehensive restoration around 12 years ago and has been carefully preserved since. Finished in a Mazda blue, it stands out from other Sprites and reportedly attracts a huge amount of positive attention wherever it goes. The seller is sorry to let it go but the next owner will benefit from the obvious care which has been lavished on it since its restoration. One not to be missed!
History and Paperwork
- Manufactured 1971, the last year of manufacture for the Austin Sprite
- Bare metal respray around 12 years ago
- All box sections such as the sills a A posts were replaced and treated with Waxoyl
- New hood fitted
- Full engine rebuild included a rebore, unleaded head conversion, new big end bearings, exchange carburettors and new piston rings
- Invoices for all work included (though not pictured)
- Acquired by the current vendor around 5 years ago
- Reconditioned gearbox fitted 2 years ago
- Reportedly dry stored and only used in dry weather
- V5 in owner’s name
- MOT to March 2024 with no advisories
The Interior
- Refurbished tan seats showing no wear
- Wood-rimmed steering wheel
- Wood effect finished dashboard
- All gauges, buttons and switches functioning as they should
- Rare centre console made from metal with modern radio
- Blue seatbelts
- Boot housing full size spare wheel
- Roll bar
The Exterior
- Mazda blue paintwork suits the car well and helps it to stand out
- Both paint and chromework in very good condition
- Collection of period badges on the grille
- Painted steel wheels
- Black hood still in ready good shape
- Half tonneau in blue
- Full tonneau in black which fits over the roll bar
The Mechanics
- 1275cc engine
- Manual gearbox
- Rear wheel drive
- Spares package
- The seller reports that the car drives very nicely with great roadholding and is a joy to pilot down the local country lanes
- Accompanying the car is an additional sump together with a variety of other spares.
Summary
A beautiful example of the increasingly rare Austin Sprite which is perfect for enjoying the sunny weather.
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.*
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
Auction Details
- Year 1971
- Make Austin
- Model Sprite
- Colour Mazda Blue
- Odometer 59,703 Miles
- Engine size 1275
- Seller type Private
- Town Consett
- County Durham
- Country United Kingdom
-
Auction ends
29 Bids
- Mustang•••• £7,000 29/06/23
- mark.tu•••• £6,900 29/06/23
- Mustang•••• £6,800 29/06/23
- mark.tu•••• £6,700 29/06/23
- Mustang•••• £6,400 29/06/23
- mark.tu•••• £6,300 29/06/23
- Mustang•••• £6,100 29/06/23
- sing.af•••• £6,000 29/06/23
- Mustang•••• £5,800 29/06/23
- gavin.m•••• £5,600 29/06/23
What are pre-bids?
A pre-bid means you're able to place a bid before the official start of the auction.
You will be notified whether or not you are the highest bidder when the auction starts.
Problem with your bid
Bids are contractually binding. To help protect you, we have some rules in place if we think it's been mistyped. Please check and amend what you have entered.
