28th Apr, 2021 12:00
Spring 2021 Classics & Collectables Auction
1960 Austin-Healey 'Frog-Eyed' Sprite
From the collection of entrepreneur/author Laurie Seago-Taylor
Chassis No. - AN5L/42428
Registration - 919 XVC
The enduring appeal of ‘Frog-Eyed’ Sprites shows no sign of abating – indeed, values have been on the rise for some years. Now in arguably
as-new condition, this 1960 example was in a very sorry state when imported from the USA by the vendor, complete with a 1098cc A Series engine in place of its original 948cc unit. A total restoration was then embarked upon, during which the body was completely dismantled in order to expose the hidden seams. Following an initial sandblasting, the smaller sections of corrosion were cut out and new metal inserted, and complete replacement panels installed wherever required. The car was then sandblasted for a second time before being sprayed with molten zinc at 400 deg. C for optimum ongoing protection. Ultimately, all items of bodywork were meticulously primed and resprayed in the car’s original colour of Powder Blue.
The mechanical parts were treated to the same level of care and attention. The engine was stripped and the salient parts re-machined or replaced. The front and rear suspension, complete braking system (uprated to discs), gearbox, differential, fuel tank, fuel lines, brake pipes, cooling system, electrical wiring, instruments, lights etc were renewed, and all ancillaries within the engine bay replaced or overhauled. To complete the picture, the interior, including the dashboard, was retrimmed in blue leather and a new mohair hood and side screens installed. Along the way this lovingly restored and upgraded Sprite was converted from left to righthand drive and is now ready for somebody else to enjoy, having covered just 7.5 miles since the rebuild. A surely unrepeatable opportunity for ‘Frog-Eye’ fans everywhere.
In summary:
- Meticulously restored to as-new condition
- Upgrades include 1098cc engine, disc braking, mohair hood, leather interior
- Notable protection against future corrosion
'A Buyer’s Premium applies to the Hammer Price of this Lot if your bid is successful, as per the following; Motor Cars 12.5% + VAT (minimum £150 + VAT), Motorcycles and Bicycles 15% + VAT (minimum £100 + VAT); Registration Numbers 15% + VAT (minimum £50 + VAT); Automobilia 15% + VAT (minimum of £5 + VAT).'
Potential buyers should satisfy themselves with the description and condition of each lot prior to sale. Each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ as per the terms and conditions for the auction, buyers are asked to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out the service. Any disputes over descriptions will not be entertained.
Estimated at £22,000 - £24,000Chassis No. - AN5L/42428
Registration - 919 XVC
The enduring appeal of ‘Frog-Eyed’ Sprites shows no sign of abating – indeed, values have been on the rise for some years. Now in arguably
as-new condition, this 1960 example was in a very sorry state when imported from the USA by the vendor, complete with a 1098cc A Series engine in place of its original 948cc unit. A total restoration was then embarked upon, during which the body was completely dismantled in order to expose the hidden seams. Following an initial sandblasting, the smaller sections of corrosion were cut out and new metal inserted, and complete replacement panels installed wherever required. The car was then sandblasted for a second time before being sprayed with molten zinc at 400 deg. C for optimum ongoing protection. Ultimately, all items of bodywork were meticulously primed and resprayed in the car’s original colour of Powder Blue.
The mechanical parts were treated to the same level of care and attention. The engine was stripped and the salient parts re-machined or replaced. The front and rear suspension, complete braking system (uprated to discs), gearbox, differential, fuel tank, fuel lines, brake pipes, cooling system, electrical wiring, instruments, lights etc were renewed, and all ancillaries within the engine bay replaced or overhauled. To complete the picture, the interior, including the dashboard, was retrimmed in blue leather and a new mohair hood and side screens installed. Along the way this lovingly restored and upgraded Sprite was converted from left to righthand drive and is now ready for somebody else to enjoy, having covered just 7.5 miles since the rebuild. A surely unrepeatable opportunity for ‘Frog-Eye’ fans everywhere.
In summary:
- Meticulously restored to as-new condition
- Upgrades include 1098cc engine, disc braking, mohair hood, leather interior
- Notable protection against future corrosion
'A Buyer’s Premium applies to the Hammer Price of this Lot if your bid is successful, as per the following; Motor Cars 12.5% + VAT (minimum £150 + VAT), Motorcycles and Bicycles 15% + VAT (minimum £100 + VAT); Registration Numbers 15% + VAT (minimum £50 + VAT); Automobilia 15% + VAT (minimum of £5 + VAT).'
Potential buyers should satisfy themselves with the description and condition of each lot prior to sale. Each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ as per the terms and conditions for the auction, buyers are asked to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out the service. Any disputes over descriptions will not be entertained.
Auction: Spring 2021 Classics & Collectables Auction, 28th Apr, 2021
Viewing Days:
Monday, April 26th 2021
Tuesday, April 27th 2021
Wednesday Morning, April 28th 2021
Fill in the form below and one of our team will get in touch with a no-obligation valuation. We will also take you through the consignment and valuation process, to enable you to make an informed decision.
If you prefer to contact us directly please call 01606 828 124 or email info@hampsonauctions.com
