If you’ve been looking for an affordable and unique way into the world of classic British roadsters, this 1960 Austin-Healey Sprite might be just the ticket. Offered for sale on Facebook Marketplace, this example blends vintage charm with sensible upgrades and plenty of character—including a fiberglass Kellison front end, custom touches, and a healthy running drivetrain. You can see it here on Facebook Marketplace.
The seller notes that the Sprite “runs and drives excellent,” thanks in part to its original 948cc engine fed by a single Weber carburetor. It’s been converted to a 12-volt electrical system, which simplifies future upgrades and maintenance. The car also features 4-wheel disc brakes—an impressive improvement over the factory setup—and rides on a set of five matching knock-off wheels with excellent tires.
One of the more distinctive features is the front end. Instead of the iconic Bugeye/Frogeye face, this Sprite wears a fiberglass Kellison-style nose, which streamlines the body and gives the car a more aggressive and customized look. Out back, frenched-in taillights add to the car’s subtle custom flair. The floor pans have been replaced, and the interior is freshened with new carpet and a clean overall presentation. The soft top is in great condition, and the seller also includes side curtains for full-weather protection.
You’ll also find some added value in the extras: a proper Bugeye hood is included in the sale, along with a British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate verifying the car’s origins. A clean title is also ready to transfer, making this a straightforward transaction for a new owner.
This Austin-Healey Sprite isn’t a concours restoration, but that’s not the point. It’s a lightweight, analog sports car built to be enjoyed on backroads and admired for its quirkiness and simplicity. With its rare touches and sensible upgrades, it offers a lot of personality without breaking the bank.
Would you keep the custom look, or go back to Bugeye stock?
Bugeyes always had a 12 volt system. perhaps he means it was converted from positive to negative ground.
Its a nicely done Bugeye and I like the Kellison nose and the the tailight renovation. Four wheel discs are plus also. I have done many Spridgets in my day and I would leave this car ‘as is’ except maybe dropping a 1275 motor in place which is a great upgrade. The Sprites were made to be driven. They were inexpensive and it is amazing how well they have held up over the past 65+ years. I don’t see the value of taking this back to original. It makes no sense. ( to me)!!
I’m exactly the opposite. I hate the Kellinson front end and the modification to the taillights. A stock front end would be an easy switch. But I think it would be a lot of work to take the rear back to stock.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c_E_HKt47pU
The Kellison front clip is not an upgrade, but a demerit.
I’d also leave it as is, but keep the bug eyes in safe storage. I also agree about the 1275 engine swap. The 948 was positively anemic, but good enough on the proper backroads. And the disc brakes and knockoffs are icing on the cake. I’m glad it’s not concours as it’s clearly meant to be driven.
Man… I love the original hood/face on bugeyes. The hood change ( to me) defeats the appeal. Also, not fan of the taillight conversion. These cars were already 12 volt systems, so probably met that they converted from positive to a negative 12 volts ground. I am building a 59’ right now I saved outta of a barn, stored there since 1976. Such fun little cars!!! Yes, I agree on the how amazing it is how these cars held up so well!!!
I have to agree with Joey Mec on one thing: leave it as is. I would just plain leave it. The front end looks way too long and the tail lights, while well done, are not welcome on this type of car. Put the original bug eye front back on, sell the fiberglass thing, ignore the tail lights, and drive.
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Converted to 12v system. They were always 12v?
I had a 1958 Sprite and I did the same thing with the bonnet. Dumb move! One of the best things about Sprites was the bugeye front end. We can really do some dumb things when we’re young! LOL
Would rather have an Arkley conversion.
I for one, like the mods. If only I could fit in it!! Looks like it has already sold.
Arkley is perhaps a worse abomination than this one.
Vehicle is listed as “Out of Stock”.
Seriously.