Older British sports cars offer potential buyers an engaging ownership experience. Not only are they typically fun to drive, but the simple engineering principles mean they are ideal for an enthusiast wishing to be hands-on when the subject turns to maintenance and restoration. This 1959 Austin-Healey Sprite is a perfect example of the breed. It is an original and solid survivor with a known ownership history. It has no significant panel issues, allowing the buyer to choose between restoration or preservation. The Sprite is listed here on eBay in Auburn, California. Bidding sits below the reserve at $4,450, but there is time for the situation to change.

Austin-Healey released the Sprite in 1958. The Mark I, which remained in production until 1961, earned the nickname “Bugeye” for its distinctive headlight arrangement. This was a compromise setup because the original design featured headlights that pivoted flat into the hood, as eventually seen on the Porsche 928. However, BMC deemed the feature too expensive, leaving the Sprite with a face that was distinctive and endearing. The history of this Sprite is fascinating, with it finding its way to the first owner in California via Paris, France. They retained the car for forty-two years, eventually parking it for what appears to be decades in a dry barn. The second owner revived the Sprite in 2001, returning it to active service before placing it in hibernation The seller purchased it, planning a restoration. However, various circumstances saw the process stall before it started, and they have decided it needs a buyer who is willing and able to do it justice. The Sprite is in “as-found” condition and hasn’t been polished or detailed since emerging from hiding. Its original Iris Blue paint has accumulated chips and marks, but it may present acceptably following a dose of TLC. Rust is limited to a few minor external spots, with the underside structurally sound. The second owner refreshed some parts, with the wheels powdercoated and some exterior trim pieces replaced. The top is in good order, as are the windshield and side windows.

The second owner didn’t limit their attention to the Sprite’s exterior, with the interior retrimmed to present well. They replaced the original wheel with a leather Momo, but it is otherwise as it left the factory. There are a couple of potential shortcomings, but the first task would be to treat everything to a deep clean. That will reveal whether the carpet is dirty or faded and whether replacement is justified. There is slight wear on the outer edge of the driver’s seat, but a pair of slipcovers would prevent further deterioration without costing a fortune. The dash is excellent, and the gauges have crystal-clear lenses.

The Bugeye followed the typical trend set by other British sports cars from the period. Its creators dipped into the parts bin for drivetrain components, leaving their new models with engines of humble origins. The 948cc A-Series four used for the Sprite also saw service in the Morris Minor 1000 and the Austin A35. The company added twin SU carburetors, unleashing 48hp and 52 ft/lbs of torque. This was fed to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission, while rack-and-pinion steering made the Sprite feel direct and precise when changing directions. It is hard to imagine any manufacturer producing a new model today with such modest power and torque. However, modern safety standards and buyer demand for luxury means they are unlikely to create one tipping the scales at a mere 1,477 lbs. The Bugeye wasn’t a jet over the ¼-mile but could hit 83mph on the open road under favorable conditions. The seller confirms the original owner converted the Sprite to front disc brakes using components from an MG Midget. Otherwise, it is mechanically original and unmolested. The previous owner treated the engine to a rebuild, with documentation confirming the process included new pistons and other components. The brakes were refreshed, as were the cooling system and electrics. The Sprite doesn’t currently run, but the engine turns freely. The seller believes that flushing the fuel and cooling systems would help with a straightforward revival and that a thorough inspection may be all that is required to return this classic to its rightful place on our roads.

The ownership history of this 1959 Bugeye Sprite adds nothing to its potential value, but it demonstrates that some classics have fascinating backstories. This solid survivor has attracted twenty-seven bids, and it is easy to see why. Returning it to active service should be easy, and the lack of rust makes it ideal for preservation. However, it could be made to “pop” without costing a fortune. Both paths are tempting, but which would you choose?