Austin Healey Sprite Mk 4 (1970-71)

Overview: The **Austin-Healey Sprite Mark 4**, introduced in **1966** and produced until **1971**, was the final iteration of the Sprite before the Austin-Healey name was retired. By **1970**, the Sprite Mark 4 had undergone several refinements, making it a more **comfortable and practical** small sports car while still retaining its **affordable, fun-to-drive** nature.

Key improvements included:

- A **1275cc engine**, providing better performance.

- A **permanently affixed folding soft top**, making it easier to use.

- **Separate brake and clutch master cylinders**, improving braking efficiency.

- **Reclining seats**, enhancing driver comfort.

- **Reversing lights and an alternator**, modernizing the car’s electrical system.

By **1970**, the Sprite Mark 4 was part of **British Leyland**, following the merger of BMC. This transition marked the beginning of the end for the Austin-Healey brand, as the **Healey partnership ended in 1971**, and the Sprite was rebadged simply as the **Austin Sprite**. Despite this, the Sprite remained a **popular choice for budget-conscious sports car enthusiasts**, offering a **lightweight, nimble driving experience**.

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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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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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Production Total: 1,022 

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Price New: In 1970, the new price of an **Austin Healey Sprite Mark 4** in the UK was approximately **£1,095**. Using the average annual inflation rate of **5.11%** between 1970 and 2025, **£1,095 in 1970** would be equivalent to approximately **£21,000 to £22,000** in 2025. 

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Sales: The **Austin-Healey Sprite Mk IV (1970–71)** was *not* a major sales success — at least not in the conventional sense. While it retained the charm and affordability of earlier Sprites, its final years were marked by **declining sales**, **brand dilution**, and **market saturation**.

📉 Sales Snapshot

| Model Variant           | Production Numbers | Notes                                                                 |

|-------------------------|--------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------|

| **Mk IV (HAN10)**       | ~1,411 units       | 1970 facelift model with minor cosmetic updates                       |

| **Austin Sprite (AAN10)** | **1,022 units**     | Final 1971 run after the Healey name was dropped; rarest of all Sprites |

> Combined, these final two years saw **only ~2,433 units produced**, a sharp contrast to the nearly **49,000 Mk I Sprites** built just a decade earlier.

 ⚠️ Why Sales Declined

- **End of the Healey partnership**: In 1971, British Leyland ended its licensing agreement with Donald Healey, removing the “Healey” name from the Sprite — a move that hurt brand identity.

- **Internal competition**: The **MG Midget**, mechanically identical but more widely marketed, cannibalized Sprite sales.

- **Aging design**: Despite updates like reclining seats and a fixed soft top, the Mk IV was based on a 1958 platform and felt dated by the early ’70s.

- **Changing tastes**: Buyers were shifting toward more refined or exotic sports cars like the MGB, Fiat 124 Spider, and Datsun 240Z.

 🏁 Legacy vs. Sales

While not a commercial hit in its final years, the Mk IV has gained **collector appeal** due to its rarity — especially the **Austin-badged 1971 cars**, which are now the **rarest Sprites ever built**.

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Highest Sales Figures by Country

For the **Austin-Healey Sprite Mk IV (1970–71)**, detailed country-by-country sales figures are scarce due to the model’s limited production and the transitional nature of its final years. However, based on production data and export trends, we can make a well-supported estimate:

🌍 Estimated Sales Distribution by Country (1970–71)

| Country             | Estimated Share | Notes                                                                 |

|---------------------|------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------|

| **United Kingdom**  | ~40–45%          | Domestic market remained strong despite waning interest               |

| **United States**   | ~30–35%          | U.S. sales declined sharply after 1969 due to emissions and safety regs |

| **Canada**          | ~5%              | Benefited from shared North American distribution                     |

| **Australia & NZ**  | ~5%              | Continued interest via CKD kits and motorsport appeal                 |

| **Europe (various)**| ~10–15%          | Modest uptake in Germany, Netherlands, and Scandinavia                |

 📉 Why U.S. Sales Dropped

- **End of U.S. imports**: The Sprite was withdrawn from the U.S. market after 1969 due to tightening federal regulations.

- **MG Midget overlap**: The mechanically identical MG Midget was more aggressively marketed and better supported in the U.S.

- **Brand dilution**: The loss of the “Healey” name in 1971 further weakened export appeal.

 🏁 Collector Insight

The **Austin Sprite (1971)** — the final, non-Healey-badged variant — is now the **rarest of all Sprites**, with just **1,022 units produced**. These are especially prized in the UK and Europe for their scarcity and transitional branding.

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Historical Pricing Comparisons

Certainly, Robert — the Austin-Healey Sprite Mk IV (1970–71) presents a fascinating pricing arc, shaped by its transitional status and limited production. Here's a structured look at how its values have evolved:

 💷 Original Pricing (1970–71)

- **UK Launch Price**: ~£689  

- **US Launch Price**: ~$1,995  

- These prices made it one of the most affordable sports cars of its time, undercutting the MGB and Triumph Spitfire.

 📈 Historical Value Trends

| Year        | Typical Price (UK)     | Notes                                                                 |

|-------------|------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------|

| **1980s**   | £1,000–£2,000          | Modest collector interest; values remained low                       |

| **1990s**   | £2,500–£4,000          | Appreciation began as Spridgets gained recognition                   |

| **2010s**   | £4,500–£8,000          | Restored examples started commanding stronger prices                 |

| **2025**    | **£6,600 median**      | Range: **£800 (project)** to **£32,200 (concours)**  

 💵 U.S. Market Snapshot (2025)

- **Average Sale Price**: ~$9,162 USD  

- **Typical Range**: $2,800 (project) to $16,750 (top-tier)  

- **Most Recent Sales**: $4,062 (NL), $7,000 (CA), $12,000 (TX)

 🧠 Factors Affecting Value

- **Condition**: As always, originality and restoration quality are key.

- **Rarity**: The 1971 Austin Sprite (non-Healey badged) is the rarest variant and commands a premium.

- **Color & Spec**: Desirable factory colors and period-correct features (e.g. Rostyle wheels, reclining seats) enhance appeal.

- **Documentation**: Provenance and service history can significantly influence price.

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Most Favoured Colour

For the **Austin-Healey Sprite Mk IV (1970–71)**, the most favored factory color is widely considered to be **British Racing Green (GN.25)** — a timeless classic that resonated with both traditionalists and younger buyers alike.

 🎨 Popular Factory Colors for the Mk IV

| Color Name             | Code     | Notes                                                                 |

|------------------------|----------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------|

| **British Racing Green** | GN.25   | Most iconic and enduring; often paired with black or tan interiors    |

| **Tartan Red**         | RD.9     | Bold and sporty; popular in both UK and export markets                |

| **Old English White**  | WT.3     | Elegant and understated; frequently seen on concours restorations     |

| **Basilica Blue**      | BU.11    | A rich, deep blue; less common but highly admired                     |

| **Pale Primrose**      | YL.2     | Cheerful and period-correct; more popular in earlier Sprites          |

| **Black**              | BLK      | Rare from factory; often a popular respray choice in later years      |

🧵 Interior Trim Pairings

- **Black vinyl** was the standard interior across most colors.

- Some cars featured **red or tan interiors**, especially with Tartan Red or BRG exteriors.

- Reclining seats and improved trim were standard on the Mk IV, adding a touch of refinement.

🏁 Collector Insight

British Racing Green remains the most frequently restored and showcased color today, not only for its heritage but also for its strong resale appeal. That said, **Austin-badged 1971 Sprites** in original colors like **Basilica Blue** or **Tartan Red** are especially prized due to their rarity.

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Main Rivals (Price): In 1970, the main rivals of the **Austin Healey Sprite Mk4** in the UK included the **MGB** by MG and the **Triumph Spitfire** by Triumph | StillMotoring](https://www.stillmotoring.co.uk/items-6/austin-healey-sprite-mk-4-%281970-71%29). Here are their approximate new prices:

- **MG MGB**: Around **£1,200** 

- **Triumph Spitfire**: Around **£1,100**

These cars were popular choices in the sports car segment, offering a blend of performance and affordability.

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Main Rivals (Performance)

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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Engine/s

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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Historical Advertisements & Marketing Strategy

For the **Austin-Healey Sprite Mk IV (1970–71)**, advertising and marketing had to walk a fine line: preserve the car’s playful, affordable spirit while adapting to a maturing market and a fading brand identity. Here's how British Leyland approached it in the Sprite’s final chapter:

 📸 Advertising Themes & Imagery

- **“The fun never left — it just got more comfortable”**: Ads emphasized the Mk IV’s refinements like reclining seats, a proper folding top, and improved electrics, while still celebrating its lightweight, tossable nature.

- **Youthful independence**: Imagery often featured young drivers enjoying open roads, echoing the carefree tone of earlier Sprite campaigns.

- **Badge engineering**: Some ads subtly acknowledged the car’s MG Midget twin, but leaned on the Healey name for heritage appeal — until 1971, when it was dropped entirely.

 🧠 Marketing Strategy Highlights

| Strategy Element              | Description                                                                 |

|------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| **Value proposition**         | Still marketed as an affordable entry-level sports car — under £700 new in 1970. |

| **Refinement messaging**      | Focused on comfort upgrades: reclining seats, alternator, better weather gear. |

| **Dealer incentives**         | British Leyland encouraged dealers to cross-promote with MG Midget stock.     |

| **Brand transition**          | 1971 saw the Sprite rebranded simply as the *Austin Sprite*, with minimal fanfare — a quiet end to the Healey era. |

 🗞️ Notable Press & Publicity

- The Mk IV received modest press coverage compared to earlier Sprites. Reviews praised its **improved usability** but noted the platform was showing its age.

- Some period road tests highlighted its **nimble handling** and **low running costs**, reinforcing its appeal to budget-conscious enthusiasts.

 🏁 Legacy of the Campaign

While the Mk IV didn’t enjoy the same marketing sparkle as the original “Frogeye,” it maintained a loyal following. Its understated advertising reflected a car that had matured — no longer a cheeky upstart, but a **refined, final salute** to the Sprite lineage.

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Rarity & Collector Appeal

The **Austin-Healey Sprite Mk IV (1970–71)** occupies a unique niche in the collector world — not as a high-profile blue-chip classic, but as a **rare, transitional model** with growing appeal among enthusiasts who appreciate its historical significance and scarcity.

🔍 Rarity Snapshot

| Variant                     | Production Numbers | Notes                                                                 |

|-----------------------------|--------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------|

| **Sprite Mk IV (HAN10)**    | ~1,411 units       | Final “Healey-badged” Sprites, built in 1970                         |

| **Austin Sprite (AAN10)**   | **1,022 units**     | 1971-only model after the Healey name was dropped — *rarest of all*  |

| **Combined Total**          | ~2,433 units        | Compared to ~49,000 Mk I Sprites, this is a tiny production run      |

> 📉 These final Sprites represent **less than 2%** of total Sprite production from 1958–71.

🏆 Collector Appeal

- **Rarity**: The 1971 *Austin Sprite* is especially prized for being the final, non-Healey-badged variant — a true end-of-the-line car.

- **Underrated status**: Still relatively affordable, making it a smart entry point for collectors seeking rarity without the premium.

- **Improved usability**: Reclining seats, alternator, and better weather gear make it more livable than earlier Sprites.

- **Shared DNA with MG Midget**: While mechanically identical, the Sprite’s lower production numbers give it an edge in exclusivity.

- **Restoration-friendly**: Strong parts availability and club support make it a practical classic to own and maintain.

 📈 Market Trends

- **Median UK value (2025)**: ~£6,600  

- **Top-tier examples**: Up to £32,200 for concours-level cars  

- **Auction sell-through rate**: ~80% — a healthy indicator of demand

🧠 Enthusiast Insight

Collectors often seek out:

- **Original Austin Sprite badging** (1971)

- **Factory colors** like British Racing Green or Tartan Red

- **Matching-numbers cars** with documented history

- **Unmolested interiors** and period-correct details

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Recorded in UK 2025

I couldn't find the exact number of **Austin Healey Sprite Mk4** cars currently on UK roads in 2025. However, given its popularity among classic car enthusiasts, it's likely that a small but dedicated community of owners maintains and drives these cars.

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Target Age Group: The **Austin-Healey Sprite Mark 4**, produced from **1966 to 1971**, was aimed at **young drivers and motoring enthusiasts**, typically in their **20s and 30s**. It was designed as an **affordable, entry-level sports car**, making it accessible to those who wanted a **fun, stylish roadster** without the high costs of larger sports cars. 

Its **compact size, lightweight construction, and improved performance** made it particularly appealing to **amateur racers and weekend drivers** who valued **nimble handling and open-top motoring** The introduction of the **badge-engineered MG Midget** alongside the Sprite Mark 4 also helped expand its appeal to a broader audience. 

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Influence of Target Age Group

The **Austin-Healey Sprite Mk IV (1970–71)** was designed with a clear demographic in mind: **young, budget-conscious drivers** who wanted the thrill of a sports car without the financial burden of larger, more powerful models. This target age group — typically in their **20s to early 30s** — had a profound influence on the car’s design, marketing, and long-term cultural footprint.

 🎯 Target Audience Profile

| Attribute              | Description                                                                 |

|------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| **Age Range**          | 20s to early 30s                                                            |

| **Lifestyle**          | Students, young professionals, amateur racers                               |

| **Motivations**        | Affordable fun, independence, motorsport aspirations                        |

| **Cultural Context**   | Post-60s optimism, rising car ownership, growing youth car culture          |

 🛠️ Design Influences from Youth Appeal

- **Affordability**: Priced under £700 in 1970, it was one of the cheapest sports cars on the market.

- **Compact & Nimble**: Easy to park, light to drive, and ideal for urban or country roads.

- **Tuning Potential**: The 1275cc A-series engine was a favorite among DIY modifiers and club racers.

- **Improved Comfort**: Reclining seats, alternator, and better weather gear made it more usable for daily driving or weekend getaways.

📣 Marketing Strategy Aligned with Youth Culture

- **Imagery**: Ads featured carefree young couples, open roads, and spirited driving — echoing the freedom and rebellion of the era.

- **Messaging**: Emphasized fun, simplicity, and value — “a sports car you could afford to own and run.”

- **Branding Shift**: Even after the Healey name was dropped in 1971, the *Austin Sprite* retained its youthful identity, albeit with less fanfare.

 🧭 Long-Term Impact

- **Cult Following**: Many young owners became lifelong enthusiasts, restoring or racing Sprites decades later.

- **Club Scene**: Sprite and Spridget clubs became intergenerational communities, often rooted in that first youthful purchase.

- **Legacy**: The Mk IV helped democratize sports car ownership, paving the way for successors like the MG Midget and even the Mazda MX-5.

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Parts Bin Engineering

The **Austin-Healey Sprite Mk IV (1970–71)** continued the proud tradition of **parts-bin engineering** that defined the entire Sprite lineage — a clever blend of cost-saving and mechanical simplicity that made the car both affordable and easy to maintain.

🧰 Key Components & Their Origins

| Component Area       | Donor Model(s)                     | Notes                                                                 |

|----------------------|-------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------|

| **Engine**           | MG Midget 1275 (ADO16 lineage)      | 1275cc A-series OHV engine, shared with Mini Cooper S (detuned)       |

| **Gearbox**          | MG Midget / Morris Minor            | Ribbed-case 4-speed manual; improved over earlier smooth-case units   |

| **Rear Axle**        | MG Midget                           | Semi-elliptic leaf springs; stronger casing than earlier Sprites      |

| **Front Suspension** | MG Midget / Austin A35              | Coil spring and wishbone setup; minor geometry tweaks                 |

| **Brakes**           | MG Midget                           | Front disc brakes (8") and rear drums; a major upgrade from Mk I      |

| **Steering Rack**    | Morris Minor                        | Rack-and-pinion system; direct and communicative                      |

| **Electricals**      | Lucas (BMC standard)                | Alternator-equipped; improved over earlier dynamo systems             |

| **Wheels**           | MG Midget                           | 13" steel wheels; Rostyle optional on later cars                      |

 🧠 Why It Worked

- **Cost-effective**: Shared components kept production costs low and parts availability high.

- **Ease of maintenance**: Owners could source spares from a wide range of BMC vehicles.

- **Tuning potential**: The 1275cc A-series engine had a vast aftermarket and motorsport pedigree.

- **Reliability**: Proven components meant fewer surprises for daily drivers and weekend racers alike.

🏁 Motorsport & DIY Bonus

The Mk IV’s parts-bin DNA made it a favorite for club racers and modifiers. Whether fitting a Weber carb, uprated dampers, or a 5-speed gearbox conversion, the platform welcomed upgrades without compromising its character.

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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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Investment Assessment

I’d rate the **Austin-Healey Sprite Mk IV (1970–71)** as a **3 out of 5** on the financial investment scale — a modest but respectable performer in the classic car market, with rarity on its side but a relatively low ceiling.

💰 Why It Scores a 3

| Investment Factor         | Rating (1–5) | Notes                                                                 |

|---------------------------|--------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------|

| **Entry Cost**            | 4            | Still affordable; decent examples from ~£6,000–£10,000                |

| **Rarity Premium**        | 4.5          | Only ~2,433 built; 1971 Austin Sprite is the rarest of all Sprites    |

| **Value Appreciation**    | 2.5          | Gradual rise; not a high-growth asset                                 |

| **Running Costs**         | 4            | Low maintenance; shared parts with MG Midget and A-series cars        |

| **Market Ceiling**        | 2.5          | Top-tier cars rarely exceed £30k–£32k                                 |

 📈 Market Snapshot (2025)

- **Median UK Value**: ~£6,600  

- **Range**: £800 (project) to £32,200 (concours)  

- **Sell-Through Rate**: ~80% — healthy demand, especially for rare specs

🧠 Investment Insight

- **Best bets**: 1971 *Austin Sprite* badged cars, original colors like British Racing Green or Tartan Red, and matching-numbers examples.

- **Restomod tolerance**: Tasteful upgrades (e.g. 5-speed gearbox, uprated suspension) don’t hurt value and may broaden appeal.

- **Collector appeal**: Growing, but still overshadowed by the MG Midget and earlier Frogeye models.

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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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