1971 Austin Sprite Mark IV Registration Number: HLY 751K Ch...

Hammer

£4,500

1971 Austin Sprite Mark IV

Registration Number: HLY 751K
Chassis Number:  AAN10-87537-G
Recorded Mileage: 104,000 miles

- Super rare ‘AAN10’ run-out Sprite model
- Significant £5,000+ expenditure in current ownership

The final iteration of Austin-Healey Sprite arrived in 1966. Engine capacity went up again with a switch to the 1.3-liter engine (1275cc) from the Mini Cooper S, albeit with slightly less power than in the Mini, at 65 hp and 72 lb-ft. The convertible top was now fixed to the Sprite's frame instead of being a removable assembly, and a range of minor changes were made, including the addition of reverse lights and a new hydraulic system for the brakes. By 1970, BMC had been absorbed into British Leyland and changes were made to update the Sprite's design once again, with more parts shared between the Sprite and the MG Midget. The following year, 1971, the Austin/Donald Healey partnership dissolved, and the last 1,000 or so Sprites were simply badged as Austins. This was a cost-cutting move of Donald Stokes, enabling British Leyland to stop paying royalties to the Donald Healey Motor Company.

There was no direct successor, as British Leyland’s extensive range already contained the MG Midget, which was identical to the Sprite except for badging, and the similarly dimension and priced Triumph Spitfire.

This very late run-out model with the chassis number prefix ‘AAN10’, was first delivered in August of 1971 in the last year of the car’s production. One of only 1022 such cars made, and named merely the Austin Sprite, this example was purchased in the early 1990s, garage kept but seldom used due to work commitments, and so was decided to be sold. More recently the Sprite has joined a small local classic car collection, being lavished with much TLC. 

When the car arrived it had not been used for some time and was in need of thorough recommissioning. The engine and gearbox were pulled, the gearbox rebuilt and refitted with a new clutch and flywheel. The engine was painted, various hoses and cooling taps were replaced, the carburettors rebuilt and a high torque starter motor fitted.The car was serviced with all fluids, the brakes bled, and the fuel tank/sender replaced. Finally a new convertible soft-top has been fitted. Invoices on file for c.£5,000 support the works completed.

As you can imagine, with the hard work now completed, this rare Sprite is on the button and ready to be enjoyed!