Austin Healey Sprite Mk 1 (1958-61)

The Austin-Healey Sprite, also known as the "Spridget," is a classic sports car with simple technology that's easy to work on. Here are some common issues to watch out for:

1. **Axles**: If you're changing from steel to wire wheels, make sure to replace the entire rear axle housing. Wire-wheel axles are shorter, and using them in a steel-wheel axle housing can lead to axle spline engagement problems.
2. **Axle Material**: Avoid using axles from 948cc or 1098cc engines if you want performance. They're made from inferior material compared to those in 1275cc or 1500cc-powered cars.
3. **Rear Wheel Spin**: Be cautious when spinning the rear wheels from an unpaved area onto a hard road. The shock can snap the right-rear axle shaft.
4. **Brake Upgrades**: If converting drum brakes to discs, change the rear brakes and master cylinder too. Otherwise, the front-to-rear brake bias won't be ideal.
5. **Engine Compatibility**: Don't put a 1098cc engine onto a smooth-case transmission that was behind a 948cc engine. The clutch won't fit without extensive modifications.
6. **Clutch Release**: Avoid lengthening the slave cylinder pushrod to solve clutch-release problems. Instead, address the original issue (usually a worn-out release bearing or master cylinder pushrod).
7. **Radiator Cap**: Use the correct radiator cap for a vertical flow radiator (1-inch-deep cap). Using the wrong one can cause overheating.
8. **Hood Leaks**: Check the hood for leaks, as they can lead to rotten floors. Lift the rubber mats or carpets to inspect for corrosion and patch repairs¹⁴.

Generations
The Austin-Healey Sprite has been built in **four generations**:

1. **Mark I (1959-1961)**: The original Sprite, launched in 1958, featured diminutive bodywork, a front-mounted 948cc Austin A-series inline four-cylinder engine, and a semi-monocoque construction. It was nicknamed the "Bugeye" in the U.S. and "Frogeye" in the U.K. due to its fixed headlights.

2. **Mark II (1962-1964)**: This version received a significant refresh with new bodywork, including a more upright nose, integrated headlights, full-width bumpers, and a real trunk lid. The engine displacement remained the same, but the SU carburetors were upsized for nearly 47 hp.

3. **Mark III (1965-1966)**: The Mark III continued with the 1.1-liter (1,098cc) engine, producing 56 hp. Front disc brakes replaced drums, and wire wheels became optional.

4. **Mark IV (1967-1971)**: The final generation featured further refinements, including improved handling and comfort. It retained the 1.1-liter engine and continued to be a beloved small sports car.

Body Style/Variants
The Austin-Healey Sprite has undergone several iterations, each with distinct features. Here are the main body styles and variants:

1. **Mark I (1958-1961)**:
- Known as the "Frogeye" in the U.K. and the "Bugeye" in the U.S.
- Diminutive bodywork with fixed headlights.
- Front-mounted 948cc Austin A-series inline four-cylinder engine.
- Semi-monocoque construction.
- Minimalistic design with no external door handles, radio, or carpeting.
- Simple folding convertible top and plastic side windows.

2. **Mark II (1961-1964)**:
- Refreshed bodywork with an upright nose, integrated headlights, and a real trunk lid.
- Engine displacement remained the same, but SU carburetors were upsized for nearly 47 hp.
- Introduced the MG Midget version, essentially a rebadged Sprite.
- Larger 1.1-liter (1,098cc) engine producing 56 hp.
- Front disc brakes replaced drums, and wire wheels became optional.

3. **Mark III (1964-1966)**:
- Featured roll-up windows.
- Continued with the 1.1-liter engine.

4. **Mark IV (1966-1971)**:
- Further refinements in handling and comfort.
- Similar to the Mark III but with improvements.
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Trim Levels
The Austin Healey Sprite Mark 1, also known as the "Frogeye" Sprite, was primarily offered in a single trim level. This model was designed to be a simple, affordable sports car, so it didn't have multiple trim levels like some other cars. However, there were a few optional extras that buyers could choose from, such as:

- **Heater**: An optional heater for added comfort.
- **Tonneau Cover**: A cover for the cockpit area when the car was parked.
- **Hardtop**: An optional hardtop for better weather protection.

The focus was on keeping the car lightweight and affordable, which is why the trim options were quite limited.
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Spares
If you're looking for **Austin Healey Sprite** spares in the United Kingdom and Ireland, here are some options:

1. **A-Head 4 Healeys Ltd**: They are a leading manufacturer and supplier of quality UK-made Austin Healey parts and spares. They cover all models, including the **Sprite** (Frogeye Mk I, II, III, and IV), as well as other Austin Healey variants¹.

2. **AH Spares**: AH Spares offers a comprehensive range of engine parts specifically for the **Austin-Healey Sprite**. Whether you're restoring or maintaining your Sprite, you can trust them for authentic parts and expert advice².

Both of these sources should help you find the parts you need for your beloved Sprite!
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Specialists
Here are some specialists for the Austin Healey Sprite Mark 1 in the UK and Ireland:

1. **A H Spares Ltd**: Based in the UK, A H Spares has been specializing in Austin Healey and Sprite parts since 1972. They offer a wide range of quality parts for the Sprite Mark 1.

2. **Rawles Motorsport**: Located in Hampshire, Rawles Motorsport is recognized as one of the UK's premium restorers of Austin Healeys, including the Sprite Mark 1.

3. **Frogeye Spares Company**: Specializing in the Sprite Mark 1, also known as the Frogeye Sprite, this company offers parts and restoration services specifically for this model.

These specialists should be able to help you with any needs for your Austin Healey Sprite Mark 1.

Ireland
Here are some specialists for the Austin Healey Sprite Mark 1 in Ireland:

1. **Beech Hill Garage**: Located in Berkshire, UK, Beech Hill Garage specializes in Austin Healey models and offers services for the Sprite Mark 1. They may also provide support for customers in Ireland².

2. **Classic Car Specialists**: Some local classic car specialists in Ireland may also offer services for the Austin Healey Sprite Mark 1. It's worth checking with classic car clubs or forums in Ireland for recommendations.

These specialists should be able to help you with any needs for your Austin Healey Sprite Mark 1.
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Racing
The Austin Healey Sprite Mark 1, also known as the "Frogeye" Sprite, was quite successful in racing. Here are some of its notable achievements:

1. **1958 Alpine Rally**: John Sprinzel and Willy Cave won their class in this challenging rally, marking the Sprite's first major success³.

2. **1959 12 Hours of Sebring**: The Sprite won its class in this prestigious endurance race, helping to introduce the model to the U.S. market¹.

3. **1961 RAC Rally**: The Sprite continued its rally success with a class win in the RAC Rally³.

4. **1963 Monte Carlo Rally**: Another class win for the Sprite, showcasing its versatility and performance in rallying³.

5. **1965 Sebring Race**: The Sprite secured a class win in this endurance race, further cementing its reputation³.

These achievements highlight the Sprite Mark 1's competitive edge and enduring appeal in motorsport.

ICONIC MOMENTS
The Austin Healey Sprite Mark 1, also known as the "Frogeye" Sprite, has had several iconic moments in its motorsport history. Here are a few highlights:

1. **1958 Alpine Rally**: John Sprinzel and Willy Cave drove the Sprite to a class win in this challenging rally, marking one of the car's first major successes.

2. **1959 12 Hours of Sebring**: The Sprite achieved a remarkable feat by taking all three podium places in its class, showcasing its competitive edge in endurance racing.

3. **1960 Liège-Rome-Liège Rally**: The Sprite continued its rally success with another class win in this grueling event¹.

4. **1961 RAC Rally**: The Sprite secured a class win in the RAC Rally, further cementing its reputation in rallying.

5. **Historic Racing**: The Sprite remains a popular choice in historic racing events, such as the Goodwood Revival, where it continues to compete and delight enthusiasts.

These moments highlight the Sprite Mark 1's versatility and enduring appeal in the world of motorsport.