Market Position:
The Austin Sprite was a popular British sports car, known for its affordability and fun-to-drive nature, appealing to enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.
Competitors:
Competed with other small British sports cars of the era such as the MG Midget, Triumph Spitfire, and similar models from European manufacturers.
Key Features Of Vehicle:
Lightweight construction, rear-wheel drive, convertible body style, simple mechanicals, sporting character.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, detailed guidance for all aspects of repair and maintenance, enabling owners and mechanics to maintain the vehicle's performance and longevity.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system.
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, gearbox (transmission), driveshafts, differential, rear axle.
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system, wheels and tires.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, starting and charging system, accessories.
Body And Trim:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, convertible top mechanism.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine servicing, fluid changes, lubrication, filter replacements, tune-ups.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common mechanical and electrical faults.
Adjustment Procedures:
Carburetor adjustments, ignition timing, valve clearances, brake adjustments, clutch adjustment.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to major overhaul and rebuild procedures. Includes specifications, tolerances, and diagrams.
Printability:
Yes, all pages are printable.
Required Software:
Adobe Reader or compatible PDF viewer.
Operating Systems:
Windows, Mac, Linux OS.
Illustrations:
Detailed pictorial diagrams, exploded diagrams, drawings, and photos.
Special Tools:
References to specific service tool numbers and usage illustrations.
Safety Information:
Includes special notes, precautions, DANGER, CAUTION, and NOTE remarks.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, OHV (Overhead Valve)
Displacement:
Varies by year and model variant, typically 948cc (948cc, 1098cc, 1275cc).
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 45-65 bhp (gross) depending on engine variant and tuning.
Torque Range:
Approximately 50-65 lb-ft depending on engine variant.
Fuel System Type:
Typically twin SU (Skinner's Union) or Weber carburetors.
Ignition System Type:
Distributor-based, coil ignition.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 82 inches (2083 mm).
Length:
Approximately 140 inches (3556 mm).
Width:
Approximately 55 inches (1397 mm).
Height:
Approximately 48 inches (1219 mm) to top of windscreen.
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1400-1500 lbs (635-680 kg).
Safety Ratings:
Vehicle designed to earlier safety standards; modern safety ratings do not directly apply. Emphasis on driver awareness and defensive driving techniques.
Active Safety:
Responsive steering, disc front brakes (on later models), effective braking system for its weight class.
Passive Safety:
Body-on-frame construction (separate chassis), seat belts (may be optional or aftermarket fitment), minimalist safety features by modern standards.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 6 months, depending on usage and oil quality. Manual will specify exact intervals.
Tune Up Interval:
Regular checks for ignition points, plugs, and carburetor settings recommended, typically every 6,000-12,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., SAE 20W-50, SAE 30) and API service classification. Classic car oils often recommended.
Coolant:
Water/antifreeze mixture. Manual specifies ratio and type of antifreeze. Typically 50/50 mix.
Gearbox Oil:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil type (e.g., GL-4) and viscosity. May be hypoid or EP type.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on system specification. Manual will detail requirement.
Common Issues:
Rust susceptibility (especially sills, floors, wheel arches), oil leaks, cooling system issues (overheating), electrical gremlins, carburetor tuning.