UK vs United Kingdom — 1958 vs 1967
| Sprite Mk I (Frogeye) | Sprite MkIV Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 43 hp | 65 hp |
| Torque | 50 lb-ft | 70 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1,275 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 20.5 sec | 14.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 83 mph | 95 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 22.5 sec | 19.5 sec |
| Weight | 1,444 lbs | 1,627 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,032 mm | 2,032 mm |
| Length | 3,480 mm | 3,530 mm |
| Units Produced | 48,999 | 22,793 |
| Original MSRP | $1,795 | $2,195 |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $22,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 6/10 |
Numbers favor the 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite MkIV Roadster with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk I (Frogeye) offers lighter weight, stronger collectibility, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Austin-Healey Sprite. The 1958 and 1967 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite MkIV Roadster holds a clear advantage in raw power with 65 hp compared to 43 hp, a 22-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite MkIV Roadster edges ahead at 14.2 seconds versus 20.5 seconds. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk I (Frogeye) rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.