Detail Info for: 2 OWNERS LOW MIL. - ORIGINAL CALIF. CAR - NO RUST!!!

Transaction Info

Sold On:
07/04/2010
Price:
$ 6001.00
Condition:
Used
Mileage:
96580
Location:
Pleasanton, CA, 94566
Seller Type:
Dealer

Vehicle Specification

Year Make Model:
1967 Austin Healey Sprite
Submodel Body Type:
- NICE!! Convertible
Engine:
4 - Cyl.
Transmission:
Manual
VIN:
HAN9L67483
Vehicle Title:
Drive Train:
Fuel Type:
Gasoline
Standard Equipment:
Optional Equipment:

Vehicle Detail

1967 Austin Healey Sprite Beautiful Original California Car Very Well Maintained - 2 Owners - NO Rust ______________________________________________________ NOTE: Our listings sometimes get rather lengthy. However, we continually hear from out of state / out of country buyers (the majority of our clients) that they prefer the level of detail that we provide. However, if you are not prepared to read multiple pages of description, we ask that you review the "Specifications" on the car along with viewing the photos. Also, if you'd prefer, please call us at 925-846-1451 and we'll gladly discuss the Austin Healey Sprite and answer any questions over the telephone, including about our Buy it Now policies. Yes, the Sprite can be purchased prior to the end of the eBay auction. Again, give us a call for details. ALSO, PLEASE NOTE: EACH TIME WE LIST A VEHICLE ON EBAY WE RECEIVE COMMENTS THAT THERE ARE NO PHOTOS OF THE INTERIOR, ENGINE, UNDERCARRIAGE, ETC. OF THE CAR. THERE ARE 100 PHOTOS OF ALL AREAS OF THE CAR BUT, WHEN YOU REACH WHAT APPEARS TO BE THE LAST PHOTO, YOU WILL NEED TO SCROLL TO VIEW THE REMAINING PHOTOS. IF YOU ARE STILL UNABLE TO SEE THE PHOTOS, PLEASE CALL US AT 925-846-1451 AND WE WILL PROVIDE A LINK FOR THE PHOTOS (IT IS A VIOLATION OF EBAY POLICY TO LIST THE URL ON THE EBAY LISTING). Finally, all our photos are taken in a completely natural setting with no artificial lighting or gimmicks. We take considerable pride in our presentation and absolutely NO retouching or "Photoshop" work is performed on any of the photos contained in our eBay listing or Website.! THANK YOU! CLASSIC CARS LTD. HISTORY OF THE AUSTIN HEALEY SPRITE & THIS 1967 SPRITE Presented to the world at the London Motor Show in October 1966, the newest Austin Healey Mark IV Sprite made its debut boasting a bigger 1,275 cc engine and other improvements including "luxury items" like roll-up windows, exterior door handles and other improvements. As the successor to the very popular Austin Seven, the Sprite began its journey in 1958 and was produced until 1971 although importation into the US ceased in 1969. The Sprite was a popular vehicle because it was small, sporty, and very economical, with the original versions costing about $2000. They were easy to maintain and had superb handling. While the cars were not the fastest, they provided reasonable overall performance and were great fun to drive, especially around town and on back roads. Top speeds approached 90 mph due to the low weight of the cars so they were also capable of highway use. Ironically, the large percentage of the UK produced AH Sprites were exported to the United States. This 1967 model Sprite roadster is one of only 22,790 made between 1965 and 1971. Finished in classic "Old English White" over black trim (the Sprite's original factory color scheme) and equipped with 1,275 cc dual carb engine, 4 speed manual transmission, full instrumentation, tonneau cover and more, this uncommon English roadster remains in highly original "California condition" boasting originally configured interior (but of course improved / re-done over the years) interior, drive train and recent complete repaint in its original and desirable color. This absolutely lovely car boasts shows only a little more than 96,500 miles since new and has had two owners over the course of 40+ years! A very enjoyable car to drive, this Mark IV a very solid example of a last generation Austin Healey 2 seat roadster. Likely one of a very few original examples left, the European car enthusiast will recognize this unique opportunity. SPECIFICATIONS - 1967 AUSTIN HEALEY SPRITE - Make Austin Healey - Model Sprite MK IV - Engine Location Front - Drive Type Rear Wheel - Body Material Steel Uni-body - Production Years for Series 1965-1971 - Price $2,000.00 - Weight 1570 lbs | 712.2 kg - Engine - Cylinders 4 - Aspiration/Induction Normal - Displacement 1275.00 cc | 67 cu in. | 1.1 L. - Valvetrain OHV - Horsepower ~ 65.00 BHP (43.4 KW) @ 5750.00 RPM - Torque 62.00 Ft-Lbs (84.1 NM) @ 3250.00 RPM - HP to Weight Ratio 26.6 LB / HP - HP / Liter 53.6 BHP / Liter - Bore 2.54 in | 64.5 mm. | 0.1 m. - Stroke 3.29 in | 83.6 mm. | 0.1 m. - Main Bearings 3 - Engine Electronics 12-volt electrical - Fuel Type Gasoline - Fuel Feed Two SU carburetors - Block Cast-iron - Head Cast-iron - Standard Transmission - Gears 4 - Transmission Manual - Final Drive 4.22:1 - Dimensions - Seating Capacity 2 - Doors 2 - Exterior - Length 137.601 in | 3495.1 mm. - Width 55.001 in | 1397 mm. - Height 47.251 in | 1200.2 mm. - Wheelbase 80.001 in | 2032 mm. - Front Track 45.751 in | 1162.1 mm. - Rear Track 44.751 in | 1136.7 mm. - Suspension Front: Wishbones, coil springs and lever-type shock absorbers - Suspension Rear: Semi-elliptic leaf springs with lever-type shock absorbers and radius arms - Tires / Wheels - Tires 5.20x13 THIS PARTICULAR 1967 AUSTIN HEALEY SPRITE We are very pleased to offer this 1967 Austin Healey Sprite for one of our best customers that, shortly after his purchase of the Sprite, asked us to represent the Sprite as a result of special circumstances. We have always had a special place in our hearts for the Sprite and have owned more Austin Healey Sprite's than we can count. So, even though at this time of year our small showroom is overflowing, we agreed to assist and now own this lovely, original California Sprite. The car had two long term owners and was extremely well cared for over the course of its 43+ years. The Sprite has always been garaged and, according to the previous owner, was always in California. The only changes that we can find from 100% stock is the addition of a roll bar for safety and cosmetic upgrades as needed (paint & interior). Of course, the car has received the required mechanical attention over the years and is in great running / driving condition. We see Sprite's advertised and, frankly, we regularly pass on the opportunity to purchase or represent the cars for sale. Why? Well, many of the cars have had, as the old saying goes "Rode hard and put away wet"! This Sprite represents a very "honest" car that has led an easy life in California and has been owned by mature enthusiasts that have kept the car in excellent condition and driven it infrequently but never stored the car for prolonged periods of time. AUSTIN HEALEY SPRITE HIGHLIGHTS - SUMMARY * Always a California Car * NO rust * Very straight body with excellent body lines / gaps * Recent re-spray in factory original "Old English White" * No signs of previous (or current) body damage * Excellent exterior chrome and trim * Very strong running factory original 1275cc * Original "Rib-case" transmission * Excellent interior including seats, carpet & door panels * Nice rear convertible "Boot" cover * New full tonneau cover * A true well maintained original late mode (and perhaps best year) '67 Austin Healey Sprite * Very affordable "Back to Basics" British sports car OVERALL CONDITION REPORT BODY / PAINT / INTERIOR / TOP This Austin Healey Sprite is a very straight, California car that required only very minimal body preparation work when it was repainted in Old English White, the car's original color. There was no accident damage, rust or major damage of any kind. A close examination of the car reveals no previous (or current) accident damage, panel replacement or rust. We ask that you review the photographs very carefully paying particular attention to the areas that are prone to rust on the early Sprite's including the rocker panels, engine bay, front fenders, trunk and rear lower fenders. All of these areas are totally solid on this particular car and there is no indication that there has ever been any rust. The body panels line up well and the doors close solidly and securely. The trunk and hood also fit well and close/latch properly. The entire trunk area was repainted and looks great. The original, factory Old English White color remains on the inner doors, engine bay panels and hood underside as evidence of the cars original creamy white color. The car was well prepared for paint and we can find no evidence of overspray on the Sprite. The quality of the paint itself is good as the photographs reflect. The paint is very smooth and is free from runs, significant orange peel, and chips / door dings. There is no body damage on the car, and perhaps most important, the panels fit extremely well, especially for a mid-60's British car. The door gaps are excellent and the doors close well. The hood fits very well and is fitted with a newer Austin Healey emblem. The inside "bonnet" release is fully functional. The trunk is incredibly clean and dry and was completely painted, not to hide anything but rather to improve the appearance of the car. The trunk contains a spare tire and a bag with the jack. The paint work shows very well and is an absolutely classic color on this vintage British vehicle. The chrome (bright work) is also excellent and can best be described as what we have come to refer to as "California Quality Chrome." It is consistent with the quality of the cars paint & body. All of the exterior emblems are also in lovely condition and other stainless steel/aluminum items like the grill; windshield wipers (the original style), headlight trim rings, etc are in really nice condition and mostly original. The bumpers have a bright shine and no signs of pitting, rust or noticeable damage. The wheels are finished in silver as was the case when the car is new and the original hub caps remain in place. INTERIOR / TOP The interior is finished in black with white piping. A rear "boot" cover finishes off the convertible top when it is in the down position. Also included with the car (shown in the photos) is a custom made full tonneau cover to protect the Sprite when it is parked with the top down. It is new and has never been installed on the car and will need to be properly fitted to the Sprite, a straightforward job for your local upholstery shop. The convertible and the top frame is removed from the Sprite at this time but is included. After all, this is California so "We don't need no 'stinkin top"! The convertible top bows are in good condition but the convertible top itself is missing the rear window and has seen better days. If you have an interest in using the top, the good news is that tops are inexpensive. A recent search on eBay revealed like new used tops being bid at about $50.00 and brand new tops for less than $250.00. We also have an optional hardtop that we can make available at an additional cost should the new owner have an interest. The door panels, carpet and other interior items are in nice condition and reflect the car's minimal use and support the fact that it has always been stored in the garage when not in use. Unlike many examples that have been fitted with an inexpensive, aftermarket steering wheel, the Sprite retains its original wheel complete with functional horn. The monitoring gauges are functional but the tachometer is not working at this time. Our safety inspection revealed working lights, turn signals, brake lights, and windshield wipers. The brakes (factory disc in front) are fully functional and stop the car straight and sure. While the tires measure above the minimum required standard tread depth they are older and we recommend replacement. We always suggest that tires be evaluated based on the type of driving that is to be done by the car's new owner. MECHANICAL Over the years, it seems apparent that the Sprite has received the mechanical attention that it deserves. The second, credible owner indicated that many of the major components have been freshened or replaced. Certainly, based on the way the car runs and drives we have no doubt that these statements are accurate. Enthusiasts that are familiar with AH Sprite's can attest to the fact that the early transmissions left a lot to be desired. This car is equipped with the improved transmission that is excellent with no shifting problems or issues with the syncromesh gears. There is no noise in the transmission or drive-line and the car has excellent power. Another unique feature of this car is that we see no significant leaking on the floor.now this is unusual! The monitoring gauges (water temperature and oil pressure) are functional and display proper readings. The Sprite does not overheat and the oil pressure reading is excellent. The speedometer was reading and is now stuck at 20mph (cable?) and the tachometer (electronic) is currently not functioning. These items are expected to be relatively straightforward repairs but will not be addressed prior to the car's sale. SUMMARY This is a beautifully re-done Austin Healey Sprite that is ready to drive and, as the old saying goes "Just needs a driver." The prices of nice Sprites continues to climb, especially considering the absolutely ridiculous prices of American Muscle and high end European vehicles. These cars are great fun to drive, good looking but still extremely affordable, even in this original, very nice condition. Are they the next Ferrari 246GTS? Well, probably not. However, we are confident that at this price point these cars represent a tremendous "bang for the buck" and will certainly hold their value and probably climb in value in the future. DRIVING THE SPRITE Our owner recently took the Sprite to a local show and we were amazed at the interest in the Sprite. The car was appreciated for its originality and great patina / charm. The drive to the show was about 45 minutes each way, and the Sprite ran flawlessly. The car runs cool, does not exhibit any problems and is easy to drive. Also, the car has very nice performance and does not smoke, leak oil, or water. It starts immediately, when either hot or cold. We must admit that driving this car around town does require a certain amount of patience. Why? Well, everywhere you go, plan on spending time answering questions about the car, its history, and where the car came from. We forget that considering the age of the car, some of the "younger folks" don't even know what it is. Hard to believe but true!! MISCELLANEOUS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ) 1. Can the Sprite be used on highways? Of course. The car is capable of traveling at highway speeds in any state in the USA. Also, the presence of roll-up windows (vs. the sliding windows on earlier AH Sprites) and the improved spring arrangement in the rear makes the car a pleasure to drive. 2. Has it received a safety / light inspection? Yes, the car has been checked for turn signals, brake lights, and license plate lights. 3. What is the total mileage on the Austin Healey Sprite? The mileage on the odometer shows 96,580 miles and based on the cars condition (and our years of experience with these cars) we could certainly be convinced that it is accurate mileage. However, in fairness, we would not want to represent the actual mileage on a vehicle that is over 40 years of age so we have classified the cars mileage as "TMU" (Total Miles Unknown." 4. Was the car built re-done professionally? The paint and body & interior were done by professionals. Some of the smaller work was completed by the talented, experience previous owners of the Sprite. 5. Does the roll bar suggest that the car has been raced? No, the car has been driven locally and on clear days (never in the rain). It has never been raced, driven on a race track, or abused in any way. The roll bar was installed as a safety item. 6. What is included with the car? There is a full tonneau (new) cover, the convertible boot cover (shown on the car in the photos), the original convertible top / frame and some miscellaneous parts. 7. What are the cars needs (if any) at this time? The vehicle is in beautiful condition and runs and drives well. The Sprite has been well cared for and needs nothing to be used and enjoyed. The tachometer and speedometer should be repaired. Cosmetically, the car could use the door "felts" installed (included). The convertible top frame (including the latches and hardware) is included but a new top should be added for year round enjoyment. Obviously, if the car is used as it has been (strictly fair weather), there is no need to install the top. 8. Does the Sprite have seat belts? Yes but they are quite old and a simple and inexpensive update may be worth considering. 9. What comes with the Sprite? The convertible boot cover, tonneau cover and some miscellaneous parts including the window "felts" that will require installation. PURCHASING A COLLECTOR VEHICLE - THINGS TO CONSIDER As always, we recommend that you carefully review the seller's background of any collector car being sold over the Internet. We believe that it is important to ask yourself a number of questions including, but not limited to: - How long have they been in business? - How much experience do they have with collector cars? - How many positive collector car vehicle sales have completed (positive EBay feedback)? - How detailed/complete is the description of the vehicle? - Do the photos show details of the interior, exterior, top, chrome, etc. or are they simply "Glamour Shots" taken from a distance? - Does the seller have a surety bond to protect the financial transaction? - What about insurance, licensing by the state, and a local business license? - Does the seller (if a business) have any DMV (Motor Vehicle) complaints and/or other history of legal action, grievances? - Do they enjoy a favorable local and national/international reputation? - Can the seller assist with funding sources, transport and out of state/country sales? ABOUT CLASSIC CARS LTD. * Classic Cars Ltd. has been in the same, small, California town for over to 16 years. We operate a small, indoor showroom, and specialize in the sale, consignment, and purchase of sports, high performance and specialty vehicles of all types. We have a particular interest in sports cars and unique vehicles. * The majority of our vehicles come from local, private owners and collectors, and many were sold new in California. We appreciate that rust free cars, with excellent documentation and history are especially attractive to our buyers both locally, and around the country. As a result, we do not purchase our collectible cars from "distressed" sales, such as wholesale auctions, salvage sales, or lien sales. We do not sell vehicles with salvage titles, or those that have a history of significant accident damage or repair. * We are fully insured, bonded, and licensed for collector car sales all over the United States/World. * We have operated a "brick & mortar" business in the same small town for over 16 years * We are fully insured and licensed for collector car sales * Classic Cars Ltd. carries a $50,000 Surety bond to cover financial transactions * We enjoy excellent relationships with a number of transport companies and, as a result, can often times obtain preferred pricing for vehicle shipping. Please give us a call and we will be glad to refer you to suitable transport companies. Needless to say, we would recommend a quality, enclosed transporter that is experience with moving high quality, collectible cars. * We frequently sell vehicles to out of state buyers / out of country buyers, and are proud of our 100% positive EBay feedback ratings on 550+ transactions. Please review our EBay feedback for specific comments on our service to our customers. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION * We encourage telephone calls to discuss in greater details the condition/specifics of this fantastic AH Sprite. It is difficult to fully describe how nice an example this is, but we welcome "walk around" telephone discussions in order to answer any questions that you may have. * We will be glad to discuss a sale of the car prior to the end of the listing on EBay, and ask that interested parties call us at 925-846-1451 for additional information/specifics. * Please review our feedback on EBay (user name never22many) for our history of successful sales to out of state/country buyers. Our feedback consists of a total of over 550+ positive transactions on EBay. * As with any collectible vehicle of this vintage we are unable to provide a warranty or guarantee of condition. However, we make every effort to accurately represent our vehicles, and highlight both positive items as well as areas that require attention. We ask that prospective buyers consider our EBay history/feedback, standing in the community, length of time in business, and other factors when purchasing a collectible vehicle from Classic Cars Ltd. Thank you, Classic Cars Ltd. ADDITIONAL DETAILS For California buyers, the Sprite is currently licensed and registered in California until January, 2011. PLEASE NOTE: the black license plates do not belong on the vehicle. They were installed during a recent magazine photo shoot of the car. The car will come with the proper white license plates and correct stickers. In addition to the purchase price, California buyers will be subject to sales tax, documentation fee, and DMV transfer fees. Out of state buyers will be responsible for the purchase price of the vehicle with any taxes/fess paid in their respective state. PLEASE NOTE: if the vehicle is delivered or driven in California, sales tax and fee for California (approximately 10%) need to be collected in accordance with California law. Thank You, Classic Cars Ltd. 925-989-9547 Specifications: Body Type / Style:Convertible Exterior Color:White Interior Color:Black Engine:V4 Transmission: 4 Speed Manual Mileage:96,580 Drive:Rear Doors:2 Terms & Conditions 25% of the total winning bid is due within 72 hours of the end of the auction. The remaining balance is due within 7 days of the close of the auction. In addition to the winning bid/agreed purchase amount the buyer of this vehicle will be subject to a $195.00 fee for processing/administration. The charge will apply if the vehicle is purchased through ebay or before or after the auction, directly through Classic Cars Ltd. Since this vehicle is listed for sale elsewhere, we reserve the right to end the auction at anytime due to prior sale of the vehicle. We will be glad to discuss the sale of the car prior to the end of the eBay auction. Inspections of vehicles (by appointment only) must be completed within 24 hours of the end of the auction. Out of state buyers are responsible for the high bid and any shipping costs. California buyers are subject to the appropriate sales tax, DMV transfer, and fees associated with the purchase of any used vehicle sale in the state of California. We mail, via Priority Mail, transferable documents within 48 hours of the transfer of funds unless, of course, the transaction is local. While shipping and transportation costs (if appropriate) are the responsibility of the winning bidder, we can assist with locating a suitable transporter. We regularly ship cars all over the USA/World, and can often times locate very competitive rates for transporting vehicles door to door, to a local terminal, enclosed, open, etc. Please call us for specific information/rates to your location. We meet some great people and fellow enthusiasts, and only rarely do we have problems with non-paying bidders. Please be certain that you are prepared to buy the car if you bid, or call us at 925-846-1451 before the end of the auction if we can answer any questions. If you have a "sunglass" rating or fewer than 10 feedback ratings on eBay, please call us before you bid so that we can discuss the bidding process, etc. If we do not hear form you, we reserve the right to delete your bid. Thank You & Happy Bidding Classic Cars Ltd. On Jun-24-10 at 22:42:10 PDT, seller added the following information: Sellers: Get your own map of past buyers. Fast. Simple.

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