Austin-Healey Sprite Mk IV
The final evolution of the Sprite, featuring the legendary 1275cc A-Series engine.
- Power
- 65 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 12.0 s
- Top speed
- 94 mph
- Est. value
- $7k–$24k
About the Austin-Healey Sprite Mk IV
The Mk IV Sprite, introduced in 1966, represents the ultimate development of the Austin-Healey Sprite lineage. It is most notable for adopting a detuned version of the 1275cc A-Series engine from the Mini Cooper S, providing a significant performance boost over its predecessors. This generation also introduced a permanently attached folding convertible top, replacing the cumbersome removable frame of earlier models. While it lost the iconic 'Frogeye' styling of the Mk I, the Mk IV is widely considered the most usable and refined version for modern classic driving. Production continued until 1971, after which the model was briefly sold as the 'Austin Sprite' before the Healey partnership ended.
Austin-Healey Sprite Mk IV specs
The Austin-Healey Sprite Mk IV produces 65 bhp (48 kW) and 98 Nm (72 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 12.0 seconds and has a top speed of 94 mph (151 km/h).
| Make | Austin-Healey |
|---|---|
| Model | Sprite |
| Generation | Mk IV |
| Trim | 1.3 |
| Years | 1966–1971 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Convertible |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 22,790 built |
| Original price | About $2,000 when new |
| Engine | 1.3-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,275 cc (1.3 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 65 bhp (48 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 98 Nm (72 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 12.0 s |
| Top speed | 94 mph (151 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 701 kg (1,545 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 93 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an Austin-Healey Sprite Mk IV worth?
A typical Austin-Healey Sprite Mk IV is estimated to be worth $6,500 – $24,000 (about £4,800 – £18,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Austin-Healey Sprite Mk IV rarity in CarSpot
The Austin-Healey Sprite Mk IV is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 41 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Austin-Healey Sprite Mk IV fun facts
- The Mk IV's 1275cc engine was detuned from the Mini Cooper S's 75 hp to 65 hp to ensure better reliability and to avoid overshadowing the larger MGB.
- In 1971, the final 1,022 units were branded simply as the 'Austin Sprite' because British Leyland chose not to renew the royalty agreement with Donald Healey.
- The Mk IV was the first Sprite to feature a permanently attached folding soft top, which was marketed as a major convenience upgrade over the previous 'drip-dry' interiors.