1961 Austin-Healey Bugeye Sprite, restored and one-family owned with a low early bid

Why we picked it

Why we picked it: The seller says this Bugeye has been in one family. They bought it in 2013 and had it fully restored, with bodywork and paint in Old English White, new brakes, rebuilt SU carbs, a new fuel tank and lines, a new wiring harness, a clutch, a 12-volt conversion and a retrimmed interior. It has a clean California title and a 948cc A-series with a four-speed.

With 11 days left, the bid is $2,500, or $3,000 with the buyer fee. Restored Bugeyes have been selling for about $17,600 to $26,000. It won't stay this cheap, but it is worth watching for anyone who wants a simple, cheerful British roadster to drive or lightly modernize.

The value check

The current bid is $5,500. Comparable cars in the same condition have sold for $17,600–$26,000, so the middle of the market is about $21,800. That put this car 75% under. Bids usually climb in the final hours, so the discount will likely shrink.

Current bid $2,500 plus Hagerty's $500 minimum buyer fee is $3,000, against restored Bugeye results of $17,600 to $26,000 in 2025. That is more than 80% under the midpoint, but bids usually climb a lot before the end, and the reserve status is not stated.

Where the numbers come from:

• classic.com Bugeye comps (1960 sold $20,250 Jul 2025, $21,000 Oct 2025)
• classic.com Bugeye comps (1960 sold $21,250 Dec 2024, $26,000 Feb 2025)
• classic.com Bugeye comps (1958 sold $17,600 Jul 2025)

What to check

• Auction ends Nov 23. Hagerty adds a 7% buyer fee ($500 minimum), and the reserve status is not stated
• The description gives conflicting restoration timelines, so ask for restoration photos and receipts
• Check the floors, sills, rear spring hangers and the bonnet hinge area for rust or poor repairs under the new paint
• The windshield is cracked, and the heater box is removed but included
• 6,450 miles is listed as TMU (true mileage unknown)

Making it drive like new

Bugeyes respond well to light upgrades: a 1275 A-series or a ribbed-case five-speed, front disc brakes with a better master cylinder, telescopic rear shock conversions, and an alternator with electronic ignition make it a much better road car without losing its character.