1961 BUGEYE SPRITE

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The 1961 Austin-Healey Bugeye Sprite is a highly sought-after classic car that offers a thrilling driving experience and a design that is instantly recognizable. This compact sports car was manufactured by the British Motor Corporation from 1958 to 1961 and is well-known for its distinctive "frogeye" headlights and bug-like appearance. The 1961 model year is considered one of the most desirable due to its updated engine and upgraded features.

One of the most notable features of the 1961 Austin-Healey Bugeye Sprite is its 948cc A-series engine, capable of producing 43 horsepower at 5,200 rpm. This updated engine benefited from a new cylinder head design, a larger carburetor, and increased compression ratios, resulting in improved performance and greater fuel efficiency. The engine is paired with a four-speed manual transmission, with synchromesh on the top three gears.

The Bugeye Sprite's suspension system features independent front suspension with coil springs, and a semi-elliptic leaf spring rear suspension. This provides a comfortable ride and nimble handling, making it a fun and agile car to drive. The brakes are hydraulic drums all around, which is typical of cars from the era.

The Bugeye Sprite's body is made of lightweight aluminum panels that are bolted to a steel frame. This design allows for a low overall weight of only 1,522 pounds, providing a great power-to-weight ratio for its size. However, this car doesn't come with a ton of amenities, as was common for sports cars of the era. It has no power steering or power brakes.

Inside the Bugeye Sprite, the driver and passenger sit low to the ground in bucket seats that are surprisingly comfortable for a car of that era. The interior is rather spartan, with limited instrumentation and no radio or sound system included as standard. However, this is the case for many sports cars of the era and is part of the charm of owning a classic car.

The 1961 Austin-Healey Bugeye Sprite is a highly regarded classic car that still holds a special place in enthusiasts' hearts. Its simplistic design and lightweight construction provide a thrilling driving experience that is unique and enjoyable. It has become a sought-after collector car for young and old car enthusiasts alike. This car is an excellent example of driving enjoyment rather than creature comforts.

Milestones

- Introduction of the Austin-Healey Sprite in May 1958 - First generation (1958-1961) marketed as the "Frogeye" or "Bugeye" Sprite due to its distinctive headlight arrangement - 948 cc engine producing 43 hp - Torsion bar front suspension and rack and pinion steering - Wide availability of upgrades and customization options - Introduction of the "Mark II" in 1961 with a larger 1098 cc engine producing 56 hp - Major facelift with revised grille, headlights, and a softer rear end - Introduction of the "Mark III" in February 1964 with a further 1098 cc engine modification and front disc brakes - Production of the Austin-Healey Sprite ended in 1971 with the final version known as the "Sprite Mk IV"

Technical

• Manufacturer: Austin-Healey • Model: Bugeye Sprite • Year: 1961 • Engine: 0.95 L (948 cc) A-series inline-four engine • Horsepower: 43 hp • Torque: 52 lb-ft • Transmission: Four-speed manual • Top speed: 80 mph • Fuel System: SU carburetors • Brakes: Front drum brakes and rear drum brakes • Suspension: Front independent suspension and rear live axle with quarter-elliptic leaf springs • Steering: Rack-and-pinion steering • Body Style: Two-seat roadster • Exterior Colors: Red, blue, green, black, white, and more • Wheelbase: 79 inches • Curb Weight: 1,391 lbs.