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Austin Healey

Austin Healey - Sprite (1966)

Welcome to your ultimate reference for the Austin Healey Sprite, the lightweight 1960s sports car that captured the imagination of road‑trip enthusiasts and collectors alike. Whether you’re curious about the Austin Healey Sprite price, wondering how a 1966 model compares to its peers, or simply need a quick snapshot of what “what is a 1966 Austin Healey Sprite worth?”, this overview brings all the essential data to a single, easy‑to‑scan page.

  • Model: Austin Healey Sprite (1966)
  • Engine: 746 cc, 4‑stroke (0‑8) 16‑valve, overhead cam, 50 hp (Porsche‑engine‑derived)
  • Transmission: 4‑speed manual (front‑shift, small gear ratio)
  • Fuel Type: Gasoline (regular, 95 octane)
  • Weight: 742 kg (1,637 lbs) – 100 kg lighter than the standard Sprite
  • Length: 3,112 mm (122¼ in)
  • Width: 1,600 mm (63 in)
  • Height: 1,050 mm (41¼ in)
  • Wheelbase: 1,930 mm (76 in)
  • Top Speed: 140 km/h (87 mph)
  • Power to Weight: 50 hp/742 kg = 0.067 hp/kg (1 hp/15 kg)
  • Interior: Minimalist: single bucket seat, manual toggle, no air‑conditioning
  • Features: Dual exhaust, water‑cooled brakes, 4‑wheel, 200 PSI tyre pressure

Depreciation Insight

Understanding Austin Healey Sprite depreciation is key for any buyer or seller. The Sprites, especially those from 1966, hold their value slightly better than many contemporaries due to scarcity and enthusiast demand. However, the typical retail vehicle can be expected to lose:

  • 15–20% of its initial value in the first year
  • 25–30% by year three, primarily for service history and mileage
  • 30–35% over five years, assuming a well‑maintained car with original components

Because a 1966 Sprite is no longer in production, collectors often see a slower depreciation curve beyond the first five years, especially if the vehicle has been restored to near‑original condition. For example, a pristine 1966 Sprite may retain 60% of its purchase value after a decade, while an unsupervised run‑down model could drop to 35% or lower.

Comparison Context

In the used Austin Healey Sprite price arena, buyers frequently encounter comparison corners such as:

  • Lotus 7 (1965‑1975): 21.5 % lower auction turnover, but offers a lightweight chassis that rivals the Sprite’s brief handling.
  • Triumph TR3 (1960): 18 % higher purchase costs due to larger engine but older design.
  • Ford Anglia 105E (1968): 12 % more widespread, but engines significantly less powerful.
  • Alfa Romeo 75 (1966): 30 % pricier, with a larger engine space but reduced vintage appeal.

When compared to these models, the 1966 Austin Healey Sprite offers an optimal balance of lightweight agility and painstaking engineering detail, even if its power output lags behind more modern sport coupes of its era.

Market Position Statement

Although the Austin Healey Sprite price usually aligns with collector expectations, those passing by might be surprised to learn that the Sprite remains a popular niche in the classic sports car segment. Its useful weight, understated styling, and well‑known reliability have cemented it as a favorite for: