Austin Healey Sprite Mk 4 (1970-71)

Common Faults
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The Austin Healey Sprite Mark 4, like many classic cars, has its share of common issues. Here are some of the most frequently reported problems:

1. **Rust**: This is a major concern, especially on the sills, floor, and around suspension mounting points.
2. **Oil Leaks**: Commonly from the rear carburettor and other engine components.
3. **Overheating**: Often due to low water levels, faulty thermostats, or loose fan belts.
4. **Electrical Issues**: Problems with the starter, battery, and ignition timing can cause slow cranking and other electrical faults¹.
5. **Suspension and Steering**: Worn king pins, weak shocks, and loose steering box adjustments can lead to poor handling and steering issues¹.
6. **Brakes**: Oil on brake shoes or frozen wheel cylinders can cause brakes to grab or pull.
7. **Fuel System**: Leaks in the carb jets or flooding can lead to fuel smells inside the car.
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Generations/Trim Levels
The Austin Healey Sprite was produced in **four generations** from 1958 to 1971²³. Here’s a brief overview of each:

1. **Mark I (1958-1961)**: Known as the "Frogeye" in the UK and "Bugeye" in the US due to its distinctive headlight design.
2. **Mark II (1961-1964)**: Featured a more conventional front-end design and introduced a proper boot lid.
3. **Mark III (1964-1966)**: Included further refinements and a larger engine.
4. **Mark IV (1966-1971)**: The final version, with more comfort features and a slightly larger engine.
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Trim Levels
The Austin Healey Sprite Mark 4 didn't have a wide range of trim levels like modern cars. Instead, it was more about the standard features and optional extras that could be added. Here are some key aspects:

1. **Standard Trim**: The base model came with essential features like vinyl seats, basic instrumentation, and a folding soft top.
2. **Optional Extras**: Buyers could opt for additional features such as wire wheels, a heater, and a hardtop for better weather protection.
3. **Interior Trim**: The interior could be customized with different colours and materials for the seats and door panels.
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Engines
The Austin Healey Sprite used several different engines throughout its production run from 1958 to 1971. Here’s a breakdown by generation:

1. **Mark I (1958-1961)**:
- 948 cc A-Series I4 engine producing around 43 hp.

2. **Mark II (1961-1964)**:
- Initially used the same 948 cc engine.
- Later models featured a 1098 cc A-Series I4 engine with around 56 hp.

3. **Mark III (1964-1966)**:
- Continued with the 1098 cc engine.

4. **Mark IV (1966-1971)**:
- Upgraded to a 1275 cc A-Series I4 engine producing around 65 hp.

These engines were known for their simplicity and ease of maintenance, making the Sprite a popular choice among enthusiasts.
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Performance
The **Austin Healey Sprite Mk4** in 1970 offered the following performance:

- **Engine**: 1.3L BMC A-Series inline-4 engine
- **Power**: Around **65 horsepower** at 6,000 rpm
- **Torque**: Approximately **98 Nm (72 lb-ft)** at 3,000 rpm
- **Transmission**: 4-speed manual
- **0-60 mph**: Around **12.0 seconds**
- **Top Speed**: Approximately **97 mph (156 km/h)**

This combination of a small, lightweight engine and a manual transmission made the Sprite Mk4 a fun and agile sports car for its time.
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Rivals
In 1970, the main rivals of the **Austin Healey Sprite Mk4** included the **MG MGB** and the **Triumph Spitfire Mk IV**. Here's a brief overview of their performance:

- **MG MGB**: Equipped with a 1.8L inline-4 engine, it produced around **94 horsepower**, with a top speed of approximately **105 mph (169 km/h)** and a 0-60 mph time of about **12.1 seconds**.
- **Triumph Spitfire Mk IV**: Powered by a 1.3L inline-4 engine, it delivered around **63 horsepower**, with a top speed of about **95 mph (152 km/h)** and a 0-60 mph time of around **15.8 seconds**.

These cars offered a mix of performance and affordability, making them popular choices in the sports car segment.
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Designer/Dimensions
The **Austin Healey Sprite Mk4** was designed by **Geoffrey Healey**, the son of Donald Healey, with the body styled by **Gerry Coker**. The design was revolutionary for its time, featuring a unitary construction where the body panels provided much of the structural strength.

Here are the dimensions of the Austin Healey Sprite Mk4:
- **Length**: 349.3 cm (137.5 inches)
- **Width**: 139.7 cm (55 inches)
- **Height**: 122.6 cm (48.3 inches)
- **Wheelbase**: 203.2 cm (80 inches)
- **Curb Weight**: 714 kg (1,574 lbs)
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Spares/Specialists NI
You can find spares for your Austin Healey Sprite Mark 4 at several reputable suppliers in the UK and Ireland. Here are a few options:

1. **A H Spares**: Located in Southam, England, they are specialists in Austin Healey parts and have been established since 1972. They offer a wide range of parts for all Austin Healey models, including the Sprite Mark 4².
- Website: [A H Spares](https://www.ahspares.co.uk/)

2. **Moss Europe**: They provide parts and spares for various classic cars, including the Austin Healey Sprite. They have a comprehensive online catalogue and offer fast shipping⁵.
- Website: [Moss Europe](https://www.moss-europe.co.uk/en-gb/vehicle/austin-healey/sprite)

3. **Sprite Parts**: This supplier specializes in parts for the Sprite and MG Midget models. They offer a wide range of components and accessories³.
- Website: [Sprite Parts](https://www.ahspares.co.uk/sprite/)

These suppliers should have most of the parts you need for maintenance or restoration. If you have any specific parts in mind, it might be worth checking their online catalogues or contacting them directly.
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Specialists NI
**NORTHERN IRELAND AUSTIN SPECIALIST LIST**

Austin specialist mechanics in County Antrim, Northern Ireland:
1. McMillan Specialist Cars: They offer a wide range of services including maintenance, repairs, and full restorations. They are located at Unit 10, Plasketts Close, Kilbegs Road, Antrim BT41 4NN. You can contact them at 028 9335 49111.
2. Nufinish: With over 18 years of experience, they handle smart cosmetic and light damage repairs. They are located at Unit 24, Antrim Business Park, Randalstown Road, Antrim BT41 4LH. Their contact number is 028 9446 60142.
3. D S Autos: This garage specialises in all makes and models of car repairs, including servicing, diagnostics, and more. They are based at 67 Church St, Antrim BT41 4BE. You can reach them at 028 9446 66623.

Austin Specialists in County Armagh Northern Ireland
Here are a few options for Austin specialist mechanics in County Armagh, Northern Ireland:
1. McMullan Auto Services: They offer a range of services including car servicing, maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs. They are located at 85A Fergort Rd, Armagh BT60 3DN. You can contact them at 028 3753 17661.
2. Elite Motor Performance: This garage provides various auto repair services and is based in Armagh2.
3. Pittstop: Another option in Armagh, offering comprehensive garage services2.
If you need more details or have specific requirements, feel free to let me know!

Austin Specialist in County Down Northern Ireland
John Chatham Cars
• Location: Wellinghouse Farm, Moorhouse Lane, Hallen, Bristol BS10 7RT
• Services: Specializes in restoring, treating, and maintaining Austin Healeys and other classic British sports cars from the '50s, '60s, and '70s. They offer classic car restoration, servicing, and race preparation.
• Contact: You can reach them at 0117 950 1836. More information is available on their website.
Merlin Classic Cars
• Location: The Ropery, Unit 1C Redmoor Lane, Stockport SK22 3JL
• Services: Renowned for their restoration, maintenance, race preparation, and sales of all Austin Healey marques. They have over 30 years of experience in restoring classic and vintage vehicles.
• Contact: You can contact them at 01663 746499. More details can be found on their website.

Austin mechanic specialist in County Fermanagh Northern Ireland
1. Lochside Garages: While they are primarily Vauxhall dealers, they offer comprehensive servicing and repairs for various car brands. They are located at 22 Tempo Road, Enniskillen BT74 6HR. You can contact them at 028 6632 4366.
2. Enniskillen Motor Services: They provide a range of vehicle services, including diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance. They are based in Enniskillen.
3. Austin mechanic specialist in County Londonderry Northern Ireland

Austin specialist mechanics in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland:
1. Lloyd Cooke Motors Ltd: They provide expert vehicle maintenance and car bodywork repairs. Located at 53 Lismacarol Road, Londonderry BT47 3LZ. You can contact them at 028 7130 2100.
2. S M C Motors: Offering a range of garage services throughout County Londonderry.
3. Satnams Garage: Another reliable option for various auto repair services in Londonderry.

Austin specialist mechanics in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland:
1. KG Truck & Plant: Based in Dungannon, they offer mobile mechanics for plant machinery and hydraulic repairs. They provide 24/7 on-site services and have over 20 years of experience. You can contact them at 07771 904 505.
2. NR Trucks Ltd: Located at 70 Armagh Road, Dungannon, they offer a range of services for commercial vehicles. You can reach them at 028 8778 9775.
3. Tyrone Diesel Systems: Specialising in the testing and repair of diesel fuel systems, they are the only fully-authorised Bosch Diesel Centre in Northern Ireland. They are based in Omagh
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Racing
The Austin Healey Sprite Mark 4 was indeed raced, and it has a notable history in motorsport. Here are some key points:

1. **Club Racing**: The Sprite Mark 4 was popular in club racing events across the UK and internationally. Its lightweight design and nimble handling made it a favourite among amateur racers.

2. **Historic Racing**: The Sprite Mark 4 continues to be a popular choice in historic racing events. It competes in various classic car races and rallies, including events organized by the Historic Sports Car Club (HSCC) and other vintage racing organizations².

3. **Homologation**: The Sprite Mark 4 was homologated for racing by the FIA, which allowed it to compete in various international events. This homologation covered the period from 1967 to 1977².

4. **Notable Races**: The Sprite Mark 4 has participated in numerous races, including the Goodwood Revival and other prestigious historic racing events³.

Its racing pedigree and continued presence in historic motorsport highlight the enduring appeal and performance capabilities of the Austin Healey Sprite Mark 4.

A few notable drivers are associated with the Austin Healey Sprite, including the Mark 4:

1. **John Sprinzel**: A prominent racing driver and motorsport figure, Sprinzel was instrumental in creating the Sprinzel Sebring Sprite, a modified version of the Sprite that was competitive in racing during the 1960s.

2. **Pat Moss**: Sister of the famous Stirling Moss, Pat was a successful rally driver who competed in various events driving the Austin Healey Sprite.

3. **Steve McQueen**: While not exclusively associated with the Sprite Mark 4, the legendary actor and racing enthusiast drove various Austin Healey models, including the Sprite, in his personal and professional life.

These drivers helped cement the Sprite's reputation in motorsport and popular culture.
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Valuation
In 2025, the value of an **Austin Healey Sprite Mk4** in the UK can vary depending on its condition, mileage, and original features. Generally, you can expect it to be valued between **£6,000 and £32,200**. Well-maintained examples with low mileage and original parts tend to be on the higher end of the spectrum.
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Clubs
There are **Austin Healey clubs** in Northern Ireland for owners to join! One notable club is the **Austin-Healey Club of Northern Ireland**, which is dedicated to serving the interests of Austin Healey enthusiasts in the region. They organize events, runs, and social gatherings for members to enjoy their cars and meet like-minded people.
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