A Los Gatos Little Gem: the 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite

Tucked away on a quiet side street in the picturesque hamlet of Los Gatos, California, rests a 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite – a genuine gem of an automobile. For decades, local auto aficionados have adored this little British sports car known for its unique “bugeye” front end.

Popularly known as the “bugeye” due to its big, bulging headlights, the 1958 Sprite was a lightweight sports automobile that was both inexpensive and lightweight. Despite its small stature and lack of power, the Sprite won over driving purists with its agile handling and open-air ride. An improved 1.1-liter four-cylinder engine and a reworked front end were among the 1967 model year upgrades seen on the Los Gatos vehicle.

For more than 20 years, this Sprite—coated in a vivid red—has served as an icon in the Los Gatos neighborhood. Mark, the vehicle’s longterm owner, has done an excellent job of taking care of it, keeping it in pristine condition while improving its durability and driving dynamics with a few upgrades.

“This cаr is а true lаbоr оf lоve,” Mаrk sаys, “I’ve spent cоuntless hоurs wоrking оn it, sоurcing hаrd-tо-find pаrts, аnd ensuring it remаins in tip-tоp shаpe.” When I get tо ride it аnd experience the wind оn my fаce, thоugh, it’s wоrth every penny.

Particularly on the twisting roads that snake through the neighboring Santa Cruz Mountains, the Sprite’s small size and lightweight build make it an absolute delight to drive. The vehicle exemplifies the sports car ideal with its quick steering, powerful engine, and traditional British design.

Despite its diminutive size, the Sprite commands significant attention in Los Gatos. As they marvel at the vehicle’s immaculate condition, local auto enthusiasts frequently congregate around it, exchanging anecdotes about their personal encounters with British sports cars. Attendees at community gatherings can’t help but be captivated by the Sprite, which serves as a poignant reminder of the timeless allure of classic automobiles.

The dazzling red Sprite, a monument to its owner’s passion and devotion, stands as the sun sets on the charming streets of Los Gatos. It’s a little reminder that hidden treasures in the automotive world may be found anywhere, and that the bond between driver and vehicle is more important than size or power when it comes to enjoying the thrill of the open road.