Description
Austin Healey MK1 Frogeye | 1960
Highlights:
- Original Frogeye Sprite with rare factory look
- Upgraded 5-speed gearbox and front disc brakes
- Fresh paint (2022) and interior refurbishment (2022)
- Owned by current seller since 1998
- Valid technical inspection until June 2027
The seller offers for sale this 1960 Austin Healey MK1 Frogeye, a lightweight and charming British roadster with classic “bug-eye” styling. This left-hand drive model is powered by a 948cc four-cylinder engine paired with a later-upgraded 5-speed manual transmission, offering improved drivability over the original 4-speed unit. It also benefits from modernized front disc brakes, increasing braking safety without compromising vintage appeal.
According to the seller, the car was restored prior to their purchase in 1998 and has been used regularly since. The mileage is documented at 65,000 miles and is guaranteed. The vehicle holds a valid (TÜV) technical inspection certificate until June 2027, making it road-legal and ready for enjoyable summer drives.
Mechanically, the car runs well. Electrical components including lights and indicators are in working order.
Cosmetically, the car received a new coat of paint in 2022, and the floor pans were repaired in 2023. Inside, the cabin features newly upholstered seats, side panels, and floor coverings installed in 2022. Despite its age, this Frogeye is described as having a clean and honest presentation, with only minor signs of use consistent with its age and careful ownership.
The interior is tidy and well-maintained, with refreshed materials throughout. While not described as flawless, no major issues are present. The dashboard remains true to original design, and the seller notes the original steering wheel is still included with the car.
Introduced in 1958, the Austin Healey Sprite MK1 quickly gained fame for its quirky styling and affordability. Known as the “Frogeye” in the UK (or “Bugeye” in the US), the Sprite was designed by Donald Healey and built in collaboration with the British Motor Corporation. Its hallmark is the fixed, upright headlight design, which gave it a distinctive and cheerful appearance, unlike anything else on the road at the time.
The Sprite was developed to be a budget-friendly sports car, utilizing parts from other BMC vehicles to keep costs low. Its lightweight construction and small engine gave it excellent agility, making it a favorite among club racers and amateur motorsport enthusiasts. The MK1 model was produced from 1958 to 1961 and remains the most recognizable of the Sprite series.
While its 948cc engine may seem modest, the Frogeye’s minimal weight (under 700 kg) allows it to deliver an engaging driving experience. Its spartan interior and lack of creature comforts underline the car’s pure focus on driving enjoyment.
This particular Frogeye benefits from sensible upgrades that enhance usability without straying far from originality. The 5-speed gearbox is a common conversion for owners seeking more relaxed highway cruising, while front disc brakes improve safety under modern traffic conditions.
The Frogeye has become a beloved icon of classic British motoring and remains in demand for its unique design, spirited driving character, and simple mechanicals. Whether as a Sunday cruiser or a participant in historic motoring events, it continues to offer an authentic and fun vintage experience.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Lower Saxony, Germany.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a German registration (H-plate). The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
