1961 Austin-Healey Sprite - HotRod Collection
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 Published On Mar 15, 2024

The 1961 Austin-Healey Sprite, a vehicle that embodies the spirit of classic British engineering, now available after an extraordinary concourse restoration. This Sprite, originally presented in Old English White and now wearing an elegant Almond Green, is a testament to the timeless allure of classic Italian craftsmanship, having been meticulously restored by a true Italian craftsman in Italy.

This Sprite has undergone a full rotisserie rebuild, seeing its 767cc inline-four engine and four-speed manual transaxle rebuilt, its suspension and brakes overhauled, and the body sandblasted and repainted. The restoration was a labor of love and expertise, leveraging the considerable engineering skills of Graham Paddy, who once worked for Downton Engineering and later became a founding Director of Moss Europe.

Key Highlights of the Restoration:

- The vehicle boasts a custom-fabricated tubular internal subframe, enhancing its structural integrity and driving dynamics.
- Body panels including the floorboards, inner and outer rocker panels, and more were replaced, ensuring a pristine body free from dings, dents, or rust.
- The exquisite Almond Green paintwork shines with luster, complemented by a new striped surrey top with fringed edges, adding to its unique charm.
- The Sprite rides on beige-painted 12″ steel wheels adorned with Fiat-branded hubcaps, underpinning its classic aesthetic.
- Inside, the cabin features three rows of wicker bench seating against beige carpets, a body-color dashboard, and chrome-finished grab bars, creating an inviting and stylish interior.
- A two-spoke steering wheel fronts a suite of Veglia Borletti instrument dials, including a 120-km/h speedometer and gauges for water temperature and fuel level.

Less than 100 shake-down miles have been added to the fully rebuilt engine since the restoration's completion in 2018. The car also sees the addition of disc brakes and a ribbed gearbox case for improved performance and reliability.

Exterior and Mechanical Excellence:

- The bodywork stands impeccable, with no signs of imperfections, showcasing the high-quality restoration work.
- Powered by a rebuilt air-cooled 499cc inline-twin engine, topped with a single Solex carburetor, and enhanced with a custom-fabricated fuel tank and new wiring harness.
- True-Spoke real knockoff wheels and hub adaptors now grace the vehicle, elevating its elegance and overall character.

This 1961 Austin-Healey Sprite, with its detailed engine compartment, exquisite paintwork, and flawless interior, is not just a car but a piece of automotive artistry, ready to enchant collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Come find this and other classic gems at HotRod Collection. For those captivated by the blend of British charm and Italian restoration mastery, visit hotrodcollection.com or call 802-HOT-RODS.

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