Austin Healey - Austin Healey Sprite
In 1958 the Austin-Healey Sprite, designed by Donald Healey Motor Co, became an instant success after it was unveiled, and being a relatively inexpensive sportscar meant many people could buy one. The Sprite used many A35 parts with an engine modified by fitting twin SU caburettors. Other parts used by Healey were the Morris Minor rack and pinion steering and the clutch from an MG. The Sprite was made in various forms until 1971. The original "Frogeye" Sprite (referred to in the USA as "Bugeye" Sprite) used the 948cc BMC A series engine, the headlight position arrived at to comply with U.S. regulations. For 1962 the Austin Healey Sprite Mk2 had a much more conventional look, keeping the same engine, while the Austin Healey Sprite Mk3 of 1964 had the larger 1098 cc engine. The Sprite Mk3 was fitted with wind up windows and half elliptic rear springs. The Sprite Mk4 introduced in 1966 had the largest capacity engine at 1275cc. The contract between Austin and Donald Healey for the use the Healey name ended in 1972, which meant that the last 1,000 or so Sprites were badged just as the Austin Sprite.
Austin-Healy Sprite original tyre fitment was 5.20x13 which is the direct equivalent to the 145R13 radial tyre, and Blockley manufactures a high quality period correct radial steel belt construction 145R13 tyre size. Note it is only our Blockley 145R13 that is the closest in diameter to the original 5.20x13 Sprite fitment, compared to any other 145R13 tyre for sale by the Classic tyre wholesalers elsewhere. For Healey Sprite owners wanting a non standard wider tyre we produce the 175/70VR13 size which is very similar diameter but wider tread and overall width. Both these tyres have good speed ratings, with period correct tread pattern built with a steel belt tyre carcass design - nothing you can buy is this good, which we guarantee! See full details of these superb Austin Healey Sprite tyres at the links below, and find out as well why we made them:
