1959 Austin Healey

SPRITE Convertible

4 - Cyl.

Manual

VIN # AN5L / 1327

Clear

Gasoline

1959 Austin Healey Bugeye 1959 "Bugeye" - VIN # AN5L / 13275 Original California 2 Owners "Survivor" Totally Rust Free & Incredibly Complete ________________________________ THE AUSTIN HEALEY SPRITE "BUGEYE" / "FROGEYE" HISTORY The Austin-Healey Sprite was produced from 1958 through 1971 with over 130,000 examples of the two-door, low-cost, open roadster being manufactured. The car was designed by the Healey Motor Company, more specifically Donald Healey, and produced in partnership with the British Motor Corporation (BMC). There were three series of the Sprite. The first series was produced from 1958 through 1961, with approximately 49,000 examples being sent overseas, to the USA. In the United States, the cars became referred to as "Bugeye's", while in the UK they became commonly know as the "Frogeye." Each of the names evolved from the headlights mounted on the top of hood that resembles a frog and/or bug. Concealed flip-up headlamps were in the original drawings, but high production costs canceled those plans. The body was very smooth and flowing. There were no door handles; to open the door, the inside handle would need to be operated. This meant that the doors could not be locked. The trunk did not open but was accessed through an opening behind the seats. Housed inside the trunk was the spare tire along with the jack and tools. Up front, the entire front hood hinged upwards, allowing easy and convenient access to the engine. The mechanical components were borrowed; in an effort to reduce the cost of production, from a number of vehicles that were already available in the marketplace. The suspension was from the Austin A-35 while the basic engine was courtesy of the Morris Minor. The 948 cc engine was based on the Morris Motor Company A-series but fitted with dual SU carburetors increasing the horsepower from 37 to 43. Coil springs and wishbones were in the front while the rear was a semi-elliptical leaf spring configuration. A rack-and-pinion steering unit controlled the car, drum brakes provided the stopping power, and a four-speed manual gearbox sent power to the rear wheels. Later versions of the Sprite, while similar mechanically, no longer had the one piece front hood, and most people felt they lost some of the charm of the original Bugeye/Frogeye. The 948 cc engine continued to power the car until 1964. The original Sprite was a popular vehicle for many reasons, including its small size, sporty nature, and overall low cost of operation. The original versions cost approximately $2000. The cars were easy to maintain, offered great handling and epitomized the British Sports car experience of the 1950's / 1960's. While the cars were certainly not considered high performance, they were geared to have "zippy" performance in the lower ranges and, equipped with the larger, later model engines; the Bugeye was capable of speeds approaching 100 mph. Today, Bugeye/Frogeye's have become increasingly difficult to locate for a variety of reasons. While large numbers of cars were produced, the cars were prone to significant rust (especially in "rust zones" throughout the USA), and many cars didn't survive past the 1970's. Also, a large number of cars were entered in a variety of Motorsports events including; road racing, auto crossing and other events where the cars did extremely well and established a number of records. 1959 AUSTIN HEALEY "BUGEYE" SPECIFICATIONS Year 1959 Make: Austin Healey Model: Bugeye Sprite Engine Location: Front Drive Type: Rear Wheel Body Material: Steel Unibody Production Years for Series: 1958 - 1961 Price When New: Approximately $2,000.00 Weight: 1320 lbs | 598.8 kg Performance Top Speed: 90 mph+ | 145.5 km Engine Engine Configuration: I Cylinders: 4 Aspiration/Induction: Normal Displacement: 948.00 cc | 57.9 cu in. | 0.9 L. (Stock 1958-1961) Valves: 8 valves. 2 valves per cylinder. Valve-train: OHV Horsepower : 65.00 BHP (30.9 KW) @ 5000.00 RPM Torque: 50.00 Ft-Lbs (67.8 NM) @ 3300.00 RPM HP to Weight Ratio: 31.4 lb. /HP HP / Liter: 46.7 BHP / Liter Bore: 2.47 in | 62.7 mm. Stroke: 3.00 in | 76.2 mm. Compression Ratio: 8.3:1 Main Bearings: 3 Engine Electronics: 12-volt Fuel Feed: Carburetor 2 SU H1 carburetors Block: Cast-iron Head: Cast-iron Transmission Information Gears: 4 Transmission: Manual THIS PARTICULAR 1959 "BUGEYE" - HISTORY This particular Bugeye has spent its entire life in dry, sunny Northern California. The first owner titled the car in California in 1959 (as indicated on the cars original "Pink" slip) and retained possession of the car until its sale in early 1987. The cars current "caregiver" owned the Bugeye for 23+ years during which time the car underwent a cosmetic and mechanical restoration. The Healey was properly stored but used very minimally over the course of the past several years due to the poor health of the owner's wife. Sadly, his wife passed away after a very prolonged illness and he made the difficult decision to sell his "Baby." When we acquired the Bugeye it was (is) in absolutely incredible original condition. We have owned over a dozen Sprites of all years and we must say that this example is the most original, unmolested car that we have had the pleasure of owning. True enthusiasts / aficionados appreciate that it is often times the smallest details that distinguish a very original car from one that has been modified. As the old saying goes, "The Devil is in the Details." We've noticed a considerable number of original details and history on this car that we've not seen on previous Bugeye's even considering our familiarity with these cars. When it comes to documentation, consider that the Bugeye has the following: - Low mileage - (Reportedly 67,985 mi.) - Old Style Square "Pink Slip" - Original California Black & Gold License Plate documenting that the car has been in California since new - Old Metal "O'Connor Classics" License Plate Frame - ORIGINAL Austin Healey Sprite Driver's Handbook (Dated July, 1958) A close inspection / evaluation of the car reveal the following: - Unbelievably RUST FREE Body, Chassis & Engine Bay - No signs of Body Damage or Repairs - One Re-Paint in Classic BRG - British Racing Green (Original Green Car) - Original Engine - Replacement, factory style braided wiring harness - Functional Lighting System, Turn Signals, etc. - Original Transmission - Includes Original, Nice Un-Restored Side Curtains / Side Windows (See photos) - Tonneau Cover - Convertible Top (Solid with slightly cloudy rear window) - Original Convertible Top Bows Some details that we don't typically see include.. - Original Spare fastened with factory leather tie down strap & extremely clean / rust free rear cargo area with no damage - Really cool original carburetor / choke linkage (refer to photos) - Factory original / stock air cleaners - Original wheels / hubcaps - All original gauges - Rubber matting on floors / rear areas - Rubber inside door panels - Factory spare mounted with factory fastner - Original "California" chroome bumpers & trim (Excellent) - Original side curtains / trim Within the previous 500 miles the car has been gone through mechanically and brought back to running condition after a long "sleep." Specifically, the following items were completed: - Fuel system drained / cleaned - New electric fuel pump installed - Carburetors cleaned & adjusted - Master cylinder rebuilt - Brakes replaced, new pads installed (including hoses, shoes, wheel cylinders, washers, etc. as needed) - Bleed brakes and clutch & adjusted - Tune-up completed - Fluids changed - New battery Frankly, when we purchased this Bugeye, we had every intention of keeping the car and adding it to our small collection of sports and unique cars. Well, as always, we realize that our time and business commitments just do not allow time for us to use all of our "toys." So, we've decided (again) to make the car available to our loyal eBay customers around the world for someone else to enjoy realizing that, some day, we will regret "releasing" some of these true California "Survivors"! When the car was restored several years ago, it was shown at a number of car shows in the Greater San Francisco Bay Area. At that time, it received a fresh re-paint in a very attractive shade of British Racing Green (BRG), along with a new interior, door panels, dashboard and other improvements. The carpeting was also redone in black, and the car retains rubber mats in the front (and rear portions of the car) as it did when it was new. We can't remember when we've seen a Bugeye with rubber mats!! The top convertible bows are in very good condition and stowed behind the front seats. The car also included the original hard "side curtains" that are in good original, un-restored condition. The Bugeye will be sold with the old style, California title that shows the "Year First Sold" as 1959. Also, the California license plates (blue and yellow/gold) number AYND022 confirm that the car has been in California since new. As the photographs (of both the "top side", and underneath) reflect, it is an extremely solid, rust free California example. This California Bugeye also comes with a number of additional, miscellaneous, extra parts/spares. While this Bugeye car is very complete and original the cars new owner should be prepared (and ideally capable!) of some "tinkering" skills to keep the car running and driving well and bring it to an even higher level. The following description by "Category will provide the prospective buyer with additional, specific information on the Bugeye's strengths, areas for "opportunity", and overall condition. EXTERIOR - PAINT / BODY / CONVERTIBLE TOP The Bugeye is very attractive, and finished in a beautiful shade of classic BRG (British Racing Green). As most enthusiasts are aware, there are a number of shades of BRG, and we think that this particular shade is absolutely lovely on this classic Bugeye. The interior is finished in black seats with white piping and the dash is, of course, black. The front areas are fitted with rubber mats as are the back areas of the car and even the rear storage compartment. It is rare for these items to have survived over the years in excellent condition but the mats (especially in the rear) appear to be original. When the Bugeye was painted its original color, the entire car was repainted including; door jambs, underside of the hood, inner fenders, etc. The Bugeye was originally green and the quality of the re-paint is far superior to the "Quickie" jobs that we see today. There are no signs of overspray, orange peel or "checking." We often see poorly re-painted Bugeye's that retain the original paint on the inner fender, firewall and other areas under the hood. Not so with this car. In this case, the car was disassembled and time was spent to re-spray the underside of the hood and the other areas resulting in a much more complete, professional job. Clearly this cars major strength is the lack of rust on the exterior, inner trunk, engine bay and inside of the door jambs, etc. The car has NO signs of rust in the typical places including the rocker panels, front and rear lower fenders, inside trunk and spare tire area. Certainly, the lack of rust is indicative of the Bugeye's California lineage. Again, we ask that you review the 100~photographs of the car that accurately reflect the car's condition. The top convertible bows are 100% original and have been re-painted. The top bows operate freely but the current (and previous) owners used the Bugeye strictly as a "fair weather" car so the top structure remained in storage. The convertible top is included and in good condition but it has been used infrequently since the Bugeye has been a "fair weather" car for virtually all of its life. Also, an inspection of the undercarriage reveals an incredibly straight, rust free 51 year old car (hard to believe, but true!) with only signs of normal road "patina" and the usual grime that accumulates over the course of time. However, the floor pans are as solid and rust free as we have ever seen and there is no rot or rust though on the underbody of the Sprite. The Bugeye is in truly amazing condition for a 50+ year old sports car. The chassis and suspension components on the Sprite are also very straight, and original with the exception of the front disc brakes (one of the few mechanical modifications / improvements to the Bugeye). The exhaust has a wonderful throaty note that will bring back memories to enthusiasts that have a memory of good times in these cars. An inspection with a flashlight of the rear area (behind the front seats) reveals a dry, rust free rear storage area. Not only is the area free from rust throughout, it is also damage free and there is no indication of rear end damage, or damage to the supporting rear inner structural member. Other sign of absolutely rust free area is the spare tire well that remains 100% free of any moisture and even the slightest hint of rust, or surface rust. Subsequent to the Bugeye being repainted several years ago, it has been always garaged when not in use. The paint is uniform, free from fading and does not show any areas of major damage, or signs of previous repair. The paint work, while not completed to a "show level", is very good showing only minor imperfections from use over the years most of which can only be noticed upon a close, critical inspection of the car. There are a few minor scratches that have been touched up with matching paint, but no indication of any accident damage and it appears evident that the car has its original bonnet and body panels. The Bugeye looks great from even 10 feet and presents a much better appearance than many of the 50+ year old sports cars that we see. The body gaps on the Bugeye are also very good (well, as good as they were for these days!) and do not indicate any damage. The doors fit solidly and close well. Also, the hood is equipped with the front handle (almost always missing on the Bugeye hood) that locks as it should. While the front bumper is currently removed (we prefer the appearance of the Bugeye this way), the bumper is included in the numerous spare parts that come with the Sprite. The hood supports function properly, holding the hood in the open position. The beading between the fenders is in very good condition and is free from rust, even in the lower areas of the front hood (bonnet where there is generally rusting and/or splitting of the fender beading / welting). Please refer to the detailed photographs to see the quality of the "bonnet", and beading. While the trim on a Bugeye is relatively minimal, what is there is in good, to excellent condition. Specifically, the interior compartment trim (surrounding the door/dash area) is good. The rear "bumperettes" are in good straight condition, no peeling chrome but showing the patina and minor, fine scratches that come with age. The often times missing front bumper is in place and the chrome is very good, indeed. As with the entire car, there are no signs of rust throughout and the original chrome still shines bright. The chrome "bits" have not lost their luster and become dull as you would expect with cars in other parts of the world and in on the East Coast, or Midwest. The front grill is in very good condition (again, totally free of rust), and straight having survived all of these years in really nice condition with good chrome. The lenses, front and rear, are in excellent condition, free from noticeable cracks and damage. It is a lovely car that has been well cared for, and one that has seen occasional, fair weather, weekend use. INTERIOR The interior on the Bugeye shows very well. The dash, side door panels (the vinyl is a little "lumpy" but easily fixed) and even the rear trunk panels are in really nice condition. The carpet is black in color and the front and rear sections have rubber mats as would have been correct "in the day." The interior has no significant signs of wear although it was re-done some time ago, it has held up very well. The seats are firm and the seat frames are also in excellent condition. The same is true with the door panels, dash and other trim areas that have been recovered with the matching fabric. The inside door latches work well. The original side windows are included with the Bugeye, but have not been used in years. They are in totally original condition, as the photographs reflect. The dash is also very nice and contains the original, Bugeye gauges along with the original switches and knobs. The car has received the benefit of a new, cloth wiring harness that was originally fitted to the Sprite. The original gauges are in place as are the other toggle switches. The original signal toggle operates the turn signals, and is fully functional for turn signals both front and rear. The light switch (surrounding the ignition) is functional, and turns on the headlights and the bright lights. The tail lights and even the license plate light work. Also, the dash lights work. The choke is also functional and, unlike many of the older British cars, it has the "twist" feature so that it will stay out on its own while the car is warming up. The speedometer is fully functional and the car retains the original tach drive on the back of a factory (appears to be original) generator. The tach drive was making noise so it is disconnected and the tach is not working at this time. The wheels are in good condition and the tires have excellent tread but are older and we recommend replacement (tires are readily available and very reasonable for this particular vehicle), just to be safe. The front hood emblem is in place and in very good condition. The spare tire remains in its original location and has not been removed from the car. It is held in place by the original fastener. MECHANICAL CONDITION - RUNNING / DRIVING Prior to being stored due to the owner's unfortunate circumstances this Bugeye has a history of being owned and being cherished by its previous owners. It has now been brought back to life and will be appreciated by someone who understands the "realities" of older British car and truly appreciates their unique characteristics. While considerable work has been completed on the car, there will still be some "sorting" that will be required in order to utilize the Sprite as a regular driver. For the purist, the strength of this car is that it has escaped the modifications that we see on many of the older Sprites (fender flares, roll bars, different wheels, reverse mounted hoods, etc.) and, while subtle changes have been made, they have been made with an eye toward performance, and safety. Specifically, and most important, the car has received the benefit of improved front brakes (discs from a later Austin Healey) and seat belts. The brakes are a wonderful improvement over the factory, inadequate front drum brakes of the era. While neither of these changes is immediately recognizable (to other than the true Bugeye enthusiast/aficionado), they make the car considerably more drivable, and safe. The engine on the Bugeye is very strong and does not smoke, leak oil or have an unusual engine noise. It has 60lbs of oil pressure when warm and runs cool, well within acceptable limits even in California's warm 100 degree temperatures. In fact, we find no fault with the engine, transmission or rear end. The Bugeye has excellent power through all of the gears and does not hesitate, or exhibit any drivability problems. The undercarriage certainly does not show excessive oil/leaking for an un-restored British vehicle of this vintage and the cleanliness of both the engine and transmission further document the freshening of these units. The Bugeye starts immediately in the morning and during the day regardless of the temperature. We can't remember having a British car that can sit for months in our showroom and still start immediately and without a battery charge (the battery was replaced recently). The choke works perfectly and the car does not balk, or hesitate when cold. The gauges provide positive readings with very high oil pressure when the engine is warm, or cold. The battery hold a charge over a long period of time and the car has always started, even after sitting for a few weeks/months. This is a reliable, vintage Austin Healey Bugeye, to be sure. The transmission shifts well and there is no noise in the rear end, or transmission. The clutch engages and does not chatter or make noise. The clutch has been bled but may require further adjustment. However, we have been using the car and it is fine outside of a high engagement point. The braking system (front disc brakes) stops the car straight and sure and the car does not exhibit any unusual handling, or drivability issues. The steering is tight and precise, and the car handles great. We do recommend that if you consider this Bugeye that you be prepared to meet a wide variety of new friends and enthusiasts. Everywhere we go in this car we are approached by enthusiasts that had a Bugeye, or early Sprite MKII, or just those that are fascinated with its charming style/design. It is great fun and will be an excellent car for the knowledgeable, British car enthusiast. MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION * Should the buyer have a need to transport the Bugeye, be aware that you will be responsible for moving the engine, transmission (not crated, or wrapped) and the parts (smaller parts will fit in the car)? * We have had very good success with UShip in locating transporters (especially for relatively short distances) and recommend giving them a try. For long distance enclosed transport we recommend Showtime Motorsports (strictly enclosed) for competitive national moves. * We have some additional photographs and would be glad to provide specific photos for seriously interested prospective buyers * PLEASE do not ask "what is the reserve'? We will gladly discuss the car with interested buyers and answer any questions about the car, shipping, the asking price, etc. However, we will not respond to questions online about the reserve amount. 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 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 close to 15 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 * 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. * IMPORTANT: PLEASE NOTE...If the vehicle is delivered or driven in California, sales tax and other license, registration & transfer fees for California buyers. * We encourage telephone calls to discuss in greater details the condition/specifics of this lovely Austin Healey Sprite ("Bugeye"). 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. Finally, please keep in mind that, as with any used vehicle (especially one that has survived for over 45 years!), minor cosmetic issues/flaws may be present that add to the "patina" of the car and are a part of even the best restoration of a vintage/collectible vehicle. Thank you, Classic Cars Ltd. Specifications: Body Type / Style:Convertible Exterior Color:British Racing Green Interior Color:Black Engine:4 Cylinder Transmission: 4 Speed Manual Mileage:67985 Drive:Rear Doors:2 Equipment: "Black Plate" California Car Factory 4-Speed Factory Bucket Seats Factory Spare Front Disc Brakes Front Disc Brakes Front Rubber Mats Incredible "Survivor" Owners Manual Tonneau Cover 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.