1959 Austin-Healey Sprite

Make

Austin-Healey

Model

Sprite

Year

1959

Listed price

$11,959

Location

Roswell, New Mexico

Transmission

Manual

Mileage

123,456 miles

The Austin-Healey Sprite, affectionately known as the "Bugeye" or "Frogeye" depending on your side of the Atlantic, burst onto the scene in 1958 as a pure, unadulterated sports car for the masses. Donald Healey’s vision was simple: create an inexpensive, fun-to-drive roadster, and by utilizing readily available BMC A-Series components, he delivered a car that perfectly captured the spirit of post-war motoring. Its distinctive, forward-tilting headlights, originally designed to be retractable but fixed due to cost, gave the Mk1 Sprite its unforgettable face and ensured its place in automotive iconography. Light, nimble, and brimming with character, the Bugeye Sprite became an instant favorite for enthusiasts seeking an accessible entry into British sports car ownership, with nearly 49,000 examples produced before the Mk2 arrived in 1961. This 1959 Austin-Healey Bugeye Sprite presents an exciting opportunity to revive a true classic. While the odometer shows 123,456 miles, this particular example has spent a significant period parked, making it an ideal candidate for a sympathetic restoration. Under the bonnet lies a later 1275cc engine, a popular and desirable upgrade for these Sprites, offering a welcome boost in power and drivability over the original 948cc unit. Paired with its manual transmission, this car promises the engaging, direct driving experience for which the Bugeye is renowned. Ready for its next chapter, this Sprite awaits a dedicated enthusiast to bring its charm and performance back to the open road.