1964 Austin Healey SPRITE

Convertible

4 - Cyl.

Manual

HAN8L60932

Gasoline

1964 Austin Healey Sprite Lovely Mechanical & Cosmetic Restoration Beautiful Original California Car Very Well Maintained - 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 1964 SPRITE Specifications - MK II Austin Healey Sprite Production 1961-1964 31,665 Produced Engine(s) Early Models fitted with 948 cc / Later with 1098 cc Wheelbase 2,032 mm (80.0 in) Length 3,305 mm (130.1 in) Width 1,346 mm (53.0 in) Height 48.25 in (1,226 mm) (with top up) The Sprite was a popular vehicle because it was small, sporty, and very economical, with the original versions costing about $2,000.00. 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. Specifically, the Mark II Sprites (after the production of the "Bugeye's") utilized similar 948 cc engine as earlier cars (engine code 9CG) but with larger twin 1 1/4 inch SU carburetors increasing power to close to 50hp and mated to a close-ratio gearbox. The bodywork was completely revamped, with the headlights migrating to a more conventional position in the wings, either side of a full-width grille. At the rear, styling borrowed from the soon-to-be-announced MGB and gave a similarly more modern look, with the added advantages of an opening boot lid and conventional rear bumper bar. The result was a much less eccentric-looking sports car, though at the expense of some 100 lbs extra weight. The later cars are often collectively referred to as 'square-bodied' Sprites by enthusiasts. In October 1962 the Sprite received a long-stroke, higher horsepower 1098 cc engine (engine code 10CG). A strengthened gearbox with Porsche (baulk-ring) synchromesh was introduced to cope with the extra power - a heady 56 bhp. Front disc brakes were also introduced at the same time and wire wheels became an option. A Sprite tested by the British magazine "The Motor" in 1961 had a top speed of 85.8 mph (138.1 km/h) and could accelerate from 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in under 20.0 seconds. A fuel consumption of 36.2 miles per gallon was recorded. The test car, which was to deluxe specification cost under $2,000 USD fully equipped. Engines: - 1961-1964 - 948 cc A-Series I4, 46 hp (34 kW) at 5500 rpm and 53 lbf-ft (72 Nm) at 3000 rpm - 1962-1964 - 1098 cc A-Series I4, 56 hp (42 kW) at 5500 rpm and 62 lbf-ft (84 Nm) at 3250 rpm THIS PARTICULAR 1964 AUSTIN HEALEY SPRITE This 1964 model Sprite roadster is the last of the MK II cars that were produced between the years of 1961-1964. This particular car is finished in red (one of the Sprite's original factory color scheme) and equipped with a stock 1098cc dual carbureted engine, 4 speed manual transmission, stock instrumentation, and some very tasteful but not "over the top" upgrades. This lovely British roadster remains in very original "California condition" boasting originally configured interior (but of course improved / re-done over the years) interior, rebuilt engine / drive line components and a restored exterior and interior. This odometer on this Sprite shows 96,412 and has a history of limited, California ownership. This is very enjoyable car to drive and represents a very nice example of a Mark II Sprite. We are very pleased to offer this '64 Sprite for one of our best customers who, shortly after his purchase of the car, asked us to represent the Sprite as a result of his unique circumstances. We have always had a special place in our hearts for the large and small Austin Healey's and have owned more Sprite's than we can count. So, we agreed to assist in helping him identify a suitable buyer for his special little car. Based on the reported history of the car, it has had three long term owners and was extremely well cared for over the course of its 46+ years. The Sprite has always been garaged and, according to the previous owner, has always been in California. The only changes that we can find from the stock configuration is the addition of a very unique, beautiful Walnut dash and an updated CD player that the owner used to enjoy his favorite oldies CD's. These upgrades actually add to the "usability" of the Sprite but do not detract from its charm or originality. Additionally, the Sprite has received a complete cosmetic restoration including relatively recent paint, interior, dash upgrade and interior trim. Also, 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 * Lovely California Car * NO rust body / undercarriage * Very straight body with excellent body lines / gaps * Recent paint re-spray in brilliant factory color red including door jambs, underside of hood / trunk * No signs of previous (or current) body damage * Excellent exterior chrome and trim * Very strong running / fresh factory 1098cc engine * Factory (Rebuilt) transmission * Excellent re-done interior including seats, carpet & door panels *Absolutely striking burl walnut dash - Very unique *Beautiful wooden steering wheel and matching gear shift knob * A true well maintained original late model (and perhaps best year) '64 Austin Healey Sprite * Very affordable "Back to Basics" British sports car CONDITION REPORT BODY / PAINT / EXTERIOR This Austin Healey Sprite is a very straight, California car that required only very minimal body preparation work when it was repainted. The previous owner reported that the car has never had any accident damage, rust or body / frame repairs. A close examination of the car reveals no 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. The car received a complete re-paint including the door jambs (forward and aft), trunk and under hood areas. The car was very nicely prepared for paint and the trim was removed to avoid overspray on the Sprite. The quality of the paint itself is good as the photographs reflect. The paint is laid very flat, 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 very 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 carpeted including a spare tire that was custom made to match the carpet in the trunk area.a nice touch. The trunk contains a spare tire and the original jack. The paint work shows very well and, of course, the color is one of the all time classic colors on an early Sprite. 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 appear to be virtually all original. Additionally, the vent window seals, windshield post pads and side window rubber trim were replaced when the car was painted. 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. The car has a few exterior upgrades including a chrome luggage rack that can be used for those weekend jaunts where you may need just a bit of extra carrying space. The headlights are covered by chrome "stone guards" to protect the headlights from possible damage. INTERIOR / CONVERTIBLE TOP - The Sprite has received a, interior restoration including the following: - Re-upholstered seats - Custom black / red door panels - New carpeting throughout - One of a kind, custom, walnut burl dash - Fantastic like new wooden steering wheel - CD player with AM/FM radio (Note: no antenna installed for radio so, at this time only CD player is functional) - Very nicely mounted speakers in rear panel (behind cargo area) - New rubber door seals - Stainless steel sill plates with "Sprite" logo - Excellent, functional gauges - New rubber window trim The interior is finished in black and has been updated including red insets in the doors that nicely accent the red exterior. A rear "boot" finishes off the convertible top when it is in the down position. The convertible and the top frame are removed from the Sprite at this time but photos of the car in our showroom are included in our listing. Of course, we have the top down since this is California and, as the saying goes)."We don't need no 'stinkin top"! The convertible top bows are in very good condition having ben recently re-painted and the top is virtually brand new and has been used only a few times. As you would expect, the rear window is perfectly clear with no scratches or issues. The door panels, carpet and other interior items have all been replaced and the entire interior shows very well, indeed. The condition of the interior is a reflection of the car's minimal use and "mature adult" ownership / use. The photographs tell the story relative to the condition of the interior and close-up photos show the upgraded steering wheel, CD player and other improvements. The steering wheel is a fantastic, upgraded quality item that makes driving the Sprite a true pleasure. The carpeting (including the trunk) was replaced. The monitoring gauges are all functional including the tachometer, speedometer, water temperature, oil pressure and fuel gauge. The gauges display excellent readings (refer to photo in the listing) and the car runs cool with excellent oil pressure. Our safety inspection revealed working lights, turn signals, brake lights, and windshield wipers. The steering wheel is a fantastic, upgraded quality item that makes driving the Sprite a true pleasure. MECHANICAL Over the years, the Sprite has received considerable attention that it deserves. The second owner invested a tremendous amount to ensure that the car was 100% reliable and could be counted on as her weekend driver. She wanted the car in top condition and was extremely proud of her "baby." Most of the cars major components have been freshened or replaced including an engine rebuild, transmission rebuilt and a wide range of other repairs / upgrades. Based on the way that this Sprite runs and drives, it is very obvious that it has seen considerable work that is too lengthy to list in its entirety. However, a partial list of work performed is listed below. NOTE: The large majority of items listed below are supported by receipts. Also, recent work was performed by a high quality, local restoration/repair facility right here in Pleasanton, CA. "RPM" - Restoration / Performance / Modification. - Rebuilt engine with only a few thousand miles ($3,180.00+) - Rebuilt transmission ($2,500.00+) - New engine mounts - Replace heater hoses and others - Rebuild carburetors - New filters and gaskets - New fuel lines - New exhaust gaskets - Rebuilt radiator - Replace tachometer - New speedo cable - New wiper blades - New 3-point inertia seat belts - New pedal pads - New lenses - New generator - Install new turn signal switch - Repaired brake lights / turn signals - New wheel bearings - New tires (4) - Recent convertible top / repainted top bows - Exhaust & stainless rear tailpipe And too many other miscellaneous items (weather-strip, trim, etc) to list. 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 in 2nd through 4th. 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 brakes (factory disc in front) are fully functional and stop the car straight and sure. The tires measure well above the minimum required standard tread depth and all four tires are the same brand / quality. We are always asked what the weak points of the car are and what items do not work. All of the cars major components are very good (engine, transmission, rear end, etc.) Any minor items are just that, minor. We noticed that while the windshield wipers work, they are very slow from time to time, probably as a result of being used very little over the years. We also noticed that while the lights work fine, the bright lights (again, probably from lack of use) have a mind of their own and work only occasionally. While these items are probably not noteworthy considering the way these 45+ year old vehicles are used (largely "fair weather" cars), we feel that it is important to provide complete information to the prospective buyer. 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 what many consider to be inflated prices of American Muscle and high end European vehicles. These cars are great fun to drive, good looking but still extremely affordable, even in excellent condition like this example. 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 The owner of this Sprite is a very discriminating, knowledgeable "car guy" that has owned more cars than he can count. However, the Sprite has been one of his favorites and he reports nothing but thumbs up as he drives with his "gal", cruising with the Oldies CD playing loudly through the streets of our little town. The car is always appreciated and comments like "I had one of those in College" are common. 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 excessive oil, or water. Of course, anyone that has owned vintage cars of the 50's / 60's is aware that a certain amount of fluid "seepage" is part of owning a classic car. The Healey starts immediately, when either hot or cold and does not hesitate or exhibit and drivability problems. . 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 96,142 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, body, interior and mechanical work were all completed by competent professionals. 5. Has the car ever been tracked or raced? No, the car has been driven locally and on clear days (and in the last several years, not even in the rain). It has never been raced, driven on a race track, or abused in any way. 6. What is included with the car? There is a new convertible top, frame and the cars original jack and spare tire / wheel. 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. 8. Does the Sprite have seat belts? Yes, 3-point harnesses have been added for safety. 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 are fully insured and licensed for collector car sales * Classic Cars Ltd. carries a $50,000 Surety bond to 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 560+ 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 560+ 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 August, 2011. 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. 925-846-1451 Specifications: Body Type / Style:Convertible Exterior Color:Red Interior Color:Black Engine:4 Cylinder Transmission: 4 Speed Manual Mileage:96142 Drive:Rear Doors:2 Equipment: 3-Point Seat Belts Aluminum Valve Cover CD Player California Lic & Reg Convertible Top Custom Interior / Dash Factory 4-Speed Factory Bucket Seats Factory Bucket Seats Factory Spare Fresh Engine Freshly Rebuilt Transmission Front Disc Brakes Heater Horn Runs / Drives Very Well Door ID Tag 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 Nov-05-10 at 17:19:34 PDT, seller added the following information: We apologize for what appears to be some confusion surrounding the year of the Sprite. Again, the VIN tag and title show the car as a 1964, not a 1966. Also, we neglected to mention that we are including two replacement front shock absorbers (not installed). It was the intent of the owner to install them but he never got around to it and now it is too late. The installation can be accomplished by virtually any mechanic or a capable home mechanic. Please let us know if you have any questions. We antiicipate that the car will meet reserve as we are getting close a this time! Thank you, Classic Cars Ltd. 925-846-1451