Austin-Healey Sprite Mark I
The Austin-Healey Sprite Mark I, known as the 'Bugeye' or 'Frogeye,' charms collectors with its minimalist design and joyful character. It remains one of the most accessible and beloved entry points into classic British motoring.
Find one with Spotter →Typical sold price of an Austin-Healey Sprite Mark I ranges from $5,420 to $33,000, based on 512 sales tracked on Hypercars. 29 currently for sale.
Introduced in 1958, the Austin-Healey Sprite Mark I was designed by the Donald Healey Motor Company to be an affordable, fun sports car. Its most distinctive feature is its headlights, which sit on top of the bonnet, earning it the nicknames "Bugeye" in the US and "Frogeye" in the UK. Power comes from a 948 cc A-Series inline-4 paired with a 4-speed manual, creating a pure and engaging driving experience that's all about momentum.
The Bugeye's cheerful styling and simple, lightweight construction make it a perennial favorite among collectors. It’s an accessible entry into vintage car ownership, with excellent club support and parts availability. The market reflects this wide appeal, with 195 sales averaging around $18,000. Top prices over $50,000 are reserved for perfectly restored, numbers-matching cars or well-prepared vintage racers, while project cars can still be found for a few thousand dollars.
Buying Tips
- Rust is the primary concern. Thoroughly inspect the sills, floor pans, A-pillars, chassis legs, and especially the rear spring mounts for corrosion.
- Check the condition of the large, front-hinged bonnet. It's a complex assembly that's costly to repair or replace, so look for poor fits, damage, and rust.
- The A-Series engine is durable, but look for blue smoke on startup and check for good oil pressure when warm. Many cars have been upgraded to the larger 1098 cc or 1275 cc engines and front disc brakes, which improve usability.
- The original 'smooth-case' gearbox is known for weak synchros, especially on 2nd gear. A later 'rib-case' transmission is a common and desirable upgrade.
Recent sales show a wide range, from around $800 for major projects to $55,000 for concours-level restorations.
512 Austin-Healey Sprite Mark I vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 29 currently live. Sold prices range from $810 to $148,055.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Austin-Healey Sprite Mark I cost?
Based on 512 sales tracked on Hypercars, Austin-Healey Sprite Mark I prices typically range from $5,420 to $33,000. There are 29 currently for sale.
How many Austin-Healey Sprite Mark I listings are for sale right now?
There are 29 Austin-Healey Sprite Mark I listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.