1961 Austin Henley Bugeye Sprite

Description for Austin Healey Sprite 1961

This little Frogeye/Bugeye Sprite belonged to a friend who was a British Car enthusiast and the president of our local British Car Club. It has a clear Florida title in his widow's name.When my friend received the car he completely disassembled it. The body was sent to media blasting where it was taken down to bare steel. Placed on a rotisserie, the floors and rocker panels were removed and new repro panels were welded in any rust issues were cut out with new panels welded in. The body was then sent to a professional paint and body shop for final prep and paint. It is finished in base coat/clear coat black(as shown). There is also a 12 inch black metallic ghost stripe running down the center, which is not visible in the photos.As shown there is some rust on the rear section of the bonnet. The bonnet had been removed and placed on edge on a damp garage floor during the owners illness. The rest of the car body is in good condition, as shown, the gloss black finish doesn't mask any imperfections.The mechanicals have been overhauled or refurbished. The 948 engine has been recently tuned. It starts easily, runs smooth, maintains good oil pressure and temperature. I did not observe any smoke from the exhaust during engine operation. The trans. shifts through all gears, the drum brakes and clutch operate but will need bleeding, again this car has been in storage for several years after completion.As the photos show the instrument panel has been slightly modified with an electric tach and various switches, the other gauges operate normally.The car has custom made seat covers with an embroidered happy frog on the backrest. Interior rugs had been replaced with new.The car sits on new Panasport wheels and tires. There is a new convertible top (never installed) and correct top frame. The side windows are M.I.A.Also included are various manuals and a large stack parts and labor receipts.The main issue to be addressed will be the bonnet rust along the rear edge and other misc. lesser details.Unfortunately this little bugeye has been sitting dormant for several years and needs the TLC that its previous owner had given it.Inspections prior to bid closing are welcome, contact me through ebay. The car is located in Brooksville, Fl.All funds must clear prior to car release.