From New Zealand wow amazing.Thangths for shearing your project I love old cars I am 85 years my first car was a 1927 Chev 4, you made my day .ALEX HILL.
My first car - 1960 model, bought 6 years-old. Bored the engine to 998 and tuned it for club rallies on forest stages - huge fun. Your restoration took me back! Well done, you did a good job.
A 1960 Sprite as my first ever car which I saved up for 4 years to buy second hand in 1964 in UK. Really enjoyed watching this video and was impressed by the skill and commitment put into the project. Would love another with wire wheels and disc brakes - the original car I had suffered from brake fade at times. You never forget the exhaust note on a Sprite!
I’m English and old enough to remember their launch. Typical of the time. A superb concept and design but dreadful manufacture. Your car is better today than the day it came off the production line. A real delight to see it cruising the highways of USA. Truly extraordinary project from beginning to end. A masterclass in both classic restoration and Video making. All delivered in your delightfully understated style. Thanks!
This is such a true statement. I was a Triumph motorcycle mechanic back in the day and there was never a thought to quality control in the manufacturing process or in the components for that matter. Great concepts and great designs with terrible execution. To be fare the same could be said for American cars and bikes from that era.
When a manufacturer can sell every car it makes ten times over, quantity will win out over quality every time. The Frogeye Sprite is just another case in point.
@@JR-bj3uf I bought a 72 Triumph 650 Tiger in 1977 when I was a Coast Guard Aviation Machiest Mate 3d Grumman HU16e Albatross / Sikorski HH52a Seaguard Flt. Mech. with a diploma on prior service motorcycle repair. Baby Blue with lots of crome. It had 6 inch over front forks the original owner had installed. I found some things that made me scratch my head in amazement on it but one thing I loved was the oil in frame and how easy an oil change was. I had the headlight burn out 3 miles from C.G. Airstation Mobile Alabama when I was sent there from Airstation Traverse City Michigan TDY for the summer of 79. Foolishly I hadn't packed a spare bulb. A local sheriff deputy pulled me over for using a flashlight. Once I showed him my military ID card he escorted me to the base. He was a dead ringer for that actor who played a southern cop in the 60's Dodge commercial including wearing sunglasses at night. He even had the same accent. My Triumph only broke down once. I had to install a new rear sprocket and chain in Gulfport Mississippi. The Triumph shop there loaned me the tools to do it. I loved that bike.
@@ronaldheit196 Great story. I had a customer with a 72 Triumph Tiger in gold. He called and said the bike was making a bad knocking sound from the head. I told him he needed to bring it in and not to ride it. A few hours later he shows up at the shop. He rode the bike from Norman OK to Oklahoma City a distance of about 40 miles. He was right. It sounded like a guy, inside the engine with a hammer trying to get out. He said "If I keep the throttle steady the noise goes away. I tore the engine down and found a broken crank shaft. The crank was flexing up and down and the pistons were hitting the head! Amazing that it didn't explode.
$13000, looks a million bucks ! A lot of time and effort I know I have been there seen it done it. But... YOU DID IT You didn't cut corners you didn't go for second best and most importantly you did not rush it. You can be very proud of what you have achieved beautiful job Enjoy 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
I bought a used 1961 soon after being commission as an Ensign in the USNR in 1964. I paid $1,000. The ship I served in deployed two months later to the South China Sea and didn't see the car again for 7 months. Upon my return I met my wife to be, and we were married in March 1966. The car never ran right for her. In June 1966 my ship deployed again to the South China Sea and my wife sold it and bought a VW Bug. I loved that car more than any I have owned since, but I love my wife more. Thanks for rebuilding one.
I'm 65 years old and purchased my first car in 1973, and it was a Bugeye, Austin Healey Sprite, and I have to say, YOU have just done so much justice to one of the best cars England has ever sent to this country! You've also made me remember so many things I loved working on and fixing on my 61 Canary Yellow Bugeve. Thank you so very much and wow, this is the best car restoration video EVER! Beautiful Work, and I know you'll enjoy it for years to come!!!
You brought back some wonderful memories. During my earlier days with the Air Force (1960 - 1987) I owned two of the Bugeyes (sequentially) and loved them. Both were the common Bugeye color of powder blue. Another fighter pilot in my squadron got me interested in the cars, owning one himself. Outside of flying the F-104, my Bugeyes were the most fun machines I ever had. Thanks for the beautiful restoration that will keep the era alive!
Hi and hello from England..............the very best restoration I've ever seen, you should be proud of yourself, in my twenties I owned a little green Frogeye, now 75 you brought back to me some many happy memories, thank you so much, Leslie
JESUS!!! After watching this and the Beetle Restoration I have determined that that your old man is a GOD! He can do it all!!! Prep! Paint! Weld! Body work! Machinist! Fabrication! Upholstery! Parts Research and hunting alone is a skill! What doesn't this guy do?!? All in his 2 car garage and a side yard!!! I have a degree in automotive technology and don't feel I can comfortably do all of this myself without subletting chunks of this work out! I felt like I was watching old drama free episodes of American Hotrod! I know who I want to be when I grow up! Sit quiet and learn anything and everything this man says kid! I'm in awe of this guys technical ability!
Here in Australia they were called "bug-eyes" too. That was one incredible journey through the restoration. I'm in awe of this bloke. Skilled,resourceful, meticulous and patient. Thank you for a great story. 👍
This is the single most impressive thing I've ever seen on RUclips ... Isiah Dark said what i was thinking ,, 5 years in 1 hour the documentary makes it a very special car
The first car I ever purchased was a 1960 Bugeye sprite, bought it in 67/8, I was 15, paid 80$ for it, we grew up together, still have it and dream about doing what you did but know after watching you I don't have the skill or knowledge to do it. I think I'll capture a picture of your completed project, frame it, and pretend. Thanks for the great trip down memory lane. It was amazing.
When I was in the Royal Engineers I had a Frogeye Sprite finished yellow cellulose paint and used to push start it myself. To prepare it for my wedding I tried spraying it white but it would not cover the yellow which would show through the freshly applied paint. Several coats later I sprayed it dark blue and it looked fine. Next morning I push started it with a little too much choke and off it went dragging me holding onto the steering wheel. Fortunately the car park had an entry arch to stop trucks from using it so I did my best to stop the car by heading for the bottom left of the arch. It stopped, thankfully so I bought a new battery and spent the weekend removing my frogeye’s wink. Thank you for showing us your dedication necessary to bring a frogeye back to faithful service and fun better than new. Your meticulous care with the doors said it all for me.
This is the single most impressive thing I've ever seen on RUclips! The skill, the dedication and the perseverance. Blows my mind. And the result is nothing but amazing! Thanks for the opportunity to tag along. 😁👍❤
When I was a kid my Dad bought a 1961 and then he found a 1959 which was cherry. I remember he put an Abarth muffler on it and tires. Not sure why but he sold both of them before I was old enough to drive. I wanted to restore one and give it to him but our time ran out. Your video really brought a smile to my face. Thanks!
Max, I really enjoyed your rebuild of your Bugeye. I got a 1959 Bugeye for my graduation from High School in 1966. She was British racing green with a green interior. I wrecked it shortly before going in the Navy. I actually knocked the windshield off with my eye. I bought a 1961 in 1971 in Honolulu when I was at Pearl Harbor. It was black and I can't remember the seats color. The Navy shipped back to the states for me. My dad had a (I believe) 1960 one. It was white with a red interior. Your video took me back. Thanks
Wow...all I can say is wow. Loved the project, and the videography was professional in quality. This should go viral. Your dad is an amazing talent as a car guy, and you are an amazing film maker. I've watched both car build documentaries (the VW Bug being the other), and enjoyed both equally. Artistic talent runs powerfully in your family. Great job, both of you. I'm a fan. I can't wait to see what you guys do next.
I've restored a few motorcycles, but sometimes haven't even remembered to take "before pictures", let alone video the whole process. My videos if they existed would likely be Adult rated for some of the language used to encourage stubborn parts together and express my frustration at regular intervals.
I have 3 bugeyes now and I've owned 10 since 1965. I've never had one or seen one as nice as yours. I wish I had the time, talent and patience to do any car as nice as this. I feel guilty because the worst Bug I have is in better shape than what you started with. I'm putting a Honda S2000 F20C in a Lotus 7 now and boy do I wish I could pick your brain. I'm having to engineer everything. You inspire me and I thank you. I'm 75 and I don't have 5 years to put this together. I ran the car at a local track called Thunderhill with a Toyota running gear and I can't wait to get this back there. All the new and upgraded parts are here now. The engine is being sleeved, the head is done. I have the header/4 to 1/ and I have to engineer from 3.5" round an oval - that splits to 2 ovals - design and make low profile Master flow mufflers with flattened perforated cones the go into a horizontal oval that becomes a vertical Oval that becomes the center fins of a rear diverter. I have to weld upper 4 bar attach points to my RX 7 3:90 posi rear - weld attach points to the frame for the Watts link - shock mounts. Put the loaner block with my head / pan / valve cover together to make motor mounts - trans mount - and start building exhaust. I'm welding up a new tranny tunnel for the larger 6 spd. that has to include a box around the clutch slave cylinder and access to the bleeder. Make new mount for the larger aluminum radiator. Build a new dash to mount the S2000 gauge cluster. I have an AEM ECU and that attaches to the stock wire harnesses that won't need readings from the many things my car won't have. Much to do. Wish me luck. I was team chief with an F-111 TDY crew at Mountain Home back in the 80's. Are you far from there? Tom. vaninwagen@hotmail.com
A Sprite of this calibre was my first real ride in a sports car, a true sports car. That was way back in 62 and I have been hooked ever since. Now I have a Z-4 BMW'er and it is so mindful of that first ride. Volkswagens' , Porsche, and a lot trucks have come and gone, but nothing like that first ride in that Sprite. The Z-4 is really a close, very close second.
Wow!!! What fun to watch you go through the entire process. I love how every component was stripped down, refurbished, and put back together. Amazing. You should win every award available at those car shows!
Terrific to see someone see a project like this all the way through over a near 5 year period. A whole range of skills, but winning through in the end. Admiration for the man all the way.
I would never normally watch a one-hour documentary but I was rivetted the whole time. As well as being in awe of your skills and persistence, it was a very good reality check for anyone who wants to restore a badly degraded Bugeye. 500 hours for someone with a high level of skill gives you pause for thought. Also thanks for taking the extra time to make the video. It’s a wonderful public service and I thank you for it.
As a Brit living in Florida, I think it’s a wonderful transformation and excellent attention to detail. The dash looks better in leather and the seats bring it up a notch. Have fun at all the car shows.
I've always loved the bugeye sprite. Thank you for taking such care. It's an amazing rebuild and your work is outstanding. Can't believe you practically did it all.
I really enjoyed the video it brought back a lot of good memories. Back in the late 60's my Dad bought a 59 and later a 61. He just did the basic tune ups and some little things like an Abarth mufflers. I remember he made a draft gage to balance the carbs. My Mom only road in it a few times becasue it messed up her hair. Both cars were racing green. I wish I had been more of a part of that part of his life. He would have liked that. I'm 74 now and still play with cars. (32 Chevy, 35 Dodge, 68 Camaro, and now a 65 Plymouth Super Stock clone) Thanks again, he was back with me for a few!.
The first car I ever bought was a used 61 Sprite. I'd never seen one and drove up behind one at a stop light. I had my wife jump out and run up and ask if they wanted to sell it, They said yes and the deal was done for $600.00. It was a beautiful blue, but after we had it a week the blue started blowing off and revealed the original white paint. Apparently they painted right over the wax. I repainted it burgundy with a white stripe down the middle, don't know why, I just liked it, and it did look good. It ran fine, we had a lot of fun, my wife commuted in it and had to go to the chiropractor every week to get her back fixed from bouncing down the road. It didn't want to start if it was below 40 degrees, so we traded it for a TR4 that had Solex carbs and would run at any temp. But that's another story. Thanks for sharing this video!
Thank you Max, you are a brilliant craftsman. Today I was able to forget about the World's problems while watching your great restoration. Your video with just the right amount of commentary and time-lapse was just perfect to watch and listen to. It was also great to see how you physically started strong and after nearly 5 yrs finished strong. More power to you Max.
Unbelievable! You are my new hero. Complete restoration in a garage and patio with Harbor Freight tools. I was an auto mechanic in the 60's then went to medical school. While at college in Laramie Wyo I found a bright yellow bugeye which I finally obtained by tradiing my 1 ton International panel truck that I paid $150.00 for. Then Sprite and I were off to Denver for medical school. While there I found a 1275 engine and birdcage tranny some guy left in a gas station. the station was closing and couldn't find the guy, so I got all the stuff (with some extras like dampeners) for $100. That Sprite had essentially no rust.and so you know I can't remember who I sold it to. I often wish I still had it. Your video which demonstrates over the top skill is as every one says, remarkable. Thank you.
Awesome, what a beauty she turned out to be! I had watched all the individual episodes already, but had to watch this complete one as well of course :) Amazing job!
After taking 3 years on a '66 Mustang and 4 years on a '44 Willys jeep, i always tell people it takes way longer than you think it will on a full restoration. Well done Sir! The sprite looks Awesome !
Actually, it doesn't. With the rotisserie and some metal being removed, there was high risk of bowing in the middle which could account for panel gaps later. Any parts like this being removed and the rest of the body MUST be braced and help in place with crossmembers.
I don't even know if yo get or read these comments, nevertheless I want to thank you for sharing your last 4.5 years restoring your bugeye. I spent quite a bit of time driving around getting crazy with a friend's 59 bugeye. It was so much fun, lots of good memories came to the surface watching this. Thanks again, you did a phenomenal job on your car, you should be very proud of it. Everyone who sees it or rides in it is blessed because of labor of love. Congratulations
Beautiful restoration. The Frogeye was one of the first foreign cars I drove. Always wanted one. Never got one. Will never have one. But your project helps ease the pain. Thanks
3 года назад
Your pain is not founded in reality. I bought a low mileage 1960 Sprite in 1962. Took a long time to find one which had not been totally thrashed in just 2 to 3 years. Engine was OK, many other things were just cheap crapola. Imagine my chagrin at having to replace the carbon faced clutch throw out bearing at just 25,000 miles. At that point American cars had been using steel ball and roller throw out bearings for at least 50 years. Merely a toy for teenagers back then, still nothing but a turd now.
I had a '61 Bugeye years ago as well as a '57 100/6. I now have a '66 3000 BJ8 which is also Old English White. I, like you, opted for a nonstandard interior- tan. I wish my doors fit as well as yours do! Great work!
Enjoyed your Beetle restoration, and absolutely loved this. My projects sometimes run multiple years as well, so I felt right at home, like I was watching a neighbor or a friend. Thanks for the great work, and the nice job documenting this for us to enjoy.
Well done Max!!! During my senior years in 12 and 13 in high school, I lifeguarded during the summers and my transportation was an Austin Healey Sprite Mk II. I loved that little Car and did all the work myself, with exception of having the engine rebuilt. But I took the engine out myself and put it back in. For fun, I would adjust and synchronize the twin SU's. At 75 now, I sincerely hope that you enjoy yours as much as I enjoyed mine. Even today, I think its big brother, the Austin Healey 3000 Mk III BJ8, is the most beautiful, even outshining the E Type Jag. Best of luck. Bill in Toronto
What an amazing restoration. As a former Sprite owner (why did I let it go?) I am just so impressed with the level of craftsmanship. The look on your face after the first test run sums up the pride you have in your project. Fantastic job. Don't sell it, show it. That must be the best restoration ever. Well done
Thank you Mr. Willson, for uploading this video, which was your and so many others’ work and persistence and passion for years. As I sit in my house on a partial quarantining because of Covid-19, it has sparked memories of working with my dad many years ago on my first car, a bugeye Sprite, and later a Volkswagen I had. Most of all though, I appreciate you and your wife and family for bringing sanity and wholesomeness into these difficult times by sharing this. Yours is a calming presence, and I appreciate how talented and hard-working you are.
My dad loved the Bugeye Sprite and owned and restored several. The last one he had was a project someone started a 215 Buick V8 installation. He got it to the point it was drivable, and sold it shortly thereafter. That was in 77. Probably wasn’t the best handling car with that setup and know he didn’t have the money to put into it and really make it right. These vids remind me of him ,
@@joolsfreeman4359 Yes, we are quite the humorous bunch. We say things like Aluminum, because that's the original spelling. And we have crazy ideas such as rustproofing on autos as well as radical concepts like using negative grounds (earths for the steak and kidney pudding set) so your car won't spontaneously combust. (yes, AH 100 in my garage ignition off key out)
@@stubee2011 Don't you love the dissimilar metal electrolysis rot between the aluminum body and the steel fenders? I wonder how often the plastic coated fabric beading was supposed to be replaced... When I got my 100-6 it was far and away too late for that to make a difference. Loved that car, tho...
Excellent result! Very succinct for a full build. I came very close to purchasing a Bugeye Sprite back in 1971, but the insurance was too expensive for a 'poor' college student at the time so I had to settle for a 1964 VW Type 1 with a metal sunroof.
The most entertaining car rebuilt video I ever saw on RUclips. It's original, simple, and edited in the neatest way possible and the most impressive engine and car body rebuilt with such skill and dedication plus some awesome humor which makes this video segment way unique than any others. this video deserves more likes and subscribers from all over the globe eh.. kudos!!
What a wonderful story of a very thorough restoration of this little classic. I am totally in awe of your dedication and skill and the patience and support of your wife. I hope you enjoy that bug eye for a long time. I owned a 3A from new in 66 to 72 and appreciate it more now.
My first car was a '59 Bug Eye. I drive it for three years. Really fun to drive. I saw one in an antique shop recently and started to entertain thoughts of an other. Then I saw one on eBay for .99 cents. No bids. Fortunately I came to my senses. I have enough projects. Enjoying your Great video was enough for now.
"What an awesome project" is an understatement. I take my hat off to you Sir. and good taste and selection. the result justified the journey. I wished I was your neighbor..
awesome to see a full version! I'm 3 days into a 2 week refresh on my Bugeye so its great timing for some motivational footage, got videos up on my channel as well
more than the amazing documentary of re-cration of a dead car !!!! You are an absolut Zen Master above your professional and techno-mechanical ability!!! Thank you so much of sharing this document here. Cheers Sir.
Absolutely fantastic restoration done so by a great guy who is multi skilled and talented. Hats off to a wonderful result. Nice to see that there is still love to save these little gems from Britain. Beautiful car which will last another 50 years or more for the next generation to appreciate.
You did a fantastic job, you had a vision and you never lost sight of that goal. My very first sports car was a 1963 AH Sprite, so I know where your automotive heart is, thank you for the excellent documentation youtube video.
Max Wilson all I got to say is I absolutely love all the pride & detailed work that you have put into your project!! Awesome awesome build buddy & well done!!
This is the second of your videos I've seen, the first being the old red vw bug you did(it didn't end up red though). Thankyou for your step by step guide as you went through each process, I wish I was younger and looking for a career path. Cheers from Downunder.
Thank you, friend. Not only did you teach us all something about your amazing craft, you lovingly restored one of the greatest little cars to ever be designed. My first car was a 1960 Bugeye, and I keep hoping for some company to come along and re-introduce this classic beauty the way they have the VW Beetle, the Fiat 500, and especially, the Mini. Imagine this car with one of the modern liter-class motorcycle engines and less than 2,000 pounds.
Just saw this for the first time 15/10/20 and enjoyed every moment of it!! I LOVE the way you do so much of the work in your own garage (I'm the same for my 1955 Chevy for close to 20 years - on the road since July 2019) as I really have no admiration for the wallet restorers. I really liked the way the repetitive stuff was included but sped up, gave me more appreciation for the hard work done to achieve these great results. Love the way you make things work out, even it is your way not someone else's. Keep up the great work/play!
Absolutely amazing Mark. I have always loved the bug eye and you have a restoration that most of us just dream about. Tremendous skill and patience mate. Well done and thanks for sharing your little slice of Heaven with the rest of us.
Absolutely wonderful. Love the documentary you do and the editing is phenomenal. Of course his knowledge of the intricate workings of cars is astounding aswell. Do you have any idea what the next project will be if there is a next one? I love rewatching this and the bug restoration.
Amazing dedication and talent. So good to see our classic uk cars being cherished stateside. Greetings from across the pond and keep 'em comin'. Thank you for this wonderful documentary.
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From New Zealand wow amazing.Thangths for shearing your project I love old cars I am 85 years my first car was a 1927 Chev 4, you made my day .ALEX HILL.
When he says "I'm not a professional...." then displays amazing work.... I think he could be a professional restorer
My first car - 1960 model, bought 6 years-old. Bored the engine to 998 and tuned it for club rallies on forest stages - huge fun. Your restoration took me back!
Well done, you did a good job.
A 1960 Sprite as my first ever car which I saved up for 4 years to buy second hand in 1964 in UK. Really enjoyed watching this video and was impressed by the skill and commitment put into the project. Would love another with wire wheels and disc brakes - the original car I had suffered from brake fade at times. You never forget the exhaust note on a Sprite!
I’m English and old enough to remember their launch. Typical of the time. A superb concept and design but dreadful manufacture. Your car is better today than the day it came off the production line. A real delight to see it cruising the highways of USA. Truly extraordinary project from beginning to end. A masterclass in both classic restoration and Video making. All delivered in your delightfully understated style. Thanks!
This is such a true statement. I was a Triumph motorcycle mechanic back in the day and there was never a thought to quality control in the manufacturing process or in the components for that matter. Great concepts and great designs with terrible execution. To be fare the same could be said for American cars and bikes from that era.
When a manufacturer can sell every car it makes ten times over, quantity will win out over quality every time. The Frogeye Sprite is just another case in point.
Didn't we call it a "frog eyed Sprite?"
@@JR-bj3uf
I bought a 72 Triumph 650 Tiger in 1977 when I was a Coast Guard Aviation Machiest Mate 3d Grumman HU16e Albatross / Sikorski HH52a Seaguard Flt. Mech. with a diploma on prior service motorcycle repair.
Baby Blue with lots of crome.
It had 6 inch over front forks the original owner had installed.
I found some things that made me scratch my head in amazement on it but one thing I loved was the oil in frame and how easy an oil change was.
I had the headlight burn out 3 miles from C.G. Airstation Mobile Alabama when I was sent there from Airstation Traverse City Michigan TDY for the summer of 79.
Foolishly I hadn't packed a spare bulb.
A local sheriff deputy pulled me over for using a flashlight.
Once I showed him my military ID card he escorted me to the base.
He was a dead ringer for that actor who played a southern cop in the 60's Dodge commercial including wearing sunglasses at night.
He even had the same accent.
My Triumph only broke down once.
I had to install a new rear sprocket and chain in Gulfport Mississippi.
The Triumph shop there loaned me the tools to do it.
I loved that bike.
@@ronaldheit196 Great story. I had a customer with a 72 Triumph Tiger in gold. He called and said the bike was making a bad knocking sound from the head. I told him he needed to bring it in and not to ride it. A few hours later he shows up at the shop. He rode the bike from Norman OK to Oklahoma City a distance of about 40 miles. He was right. It sounded like a guy, inside the engine with a hammer trying to get out. He said "If I keep the throttle steady the noise goes away. I tore the engine down and found a broken crank shaft. The crank was flexing up and down and the pistons were hitting the head! Amazing that it didn't explode.
$13000, looks a million bucks ! A lot of time and effort I know I have been there seen it done it. But... YOU DID IT You didn't cut corners you didn't go for second best and most importantly you did not rush it. You can be very proud of what you have achieved beautiful job Enjoy 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
and the best thing was done by him in his garage not taken to a restorer like most do these days
mazdaman YES HE DID CUT CORNERS AS I HAVE A ORIGINAL BUG / FROG EYED SPRITE AND THERE IS A SEAM RUNNING DOWN BOTH SIDES THAT HE DIDN'T REPLACE.
@@davidgrenis638 I noticed that but a previous owner removed and leaded those up. Adding seams would have been another major ordeal.
Outstanding.....
I bought a used 1961 soon after being commission as an Ensign in the USNR in 1964. I paid $1,000. The ship I served in deployed two months later to the South China Sea and didn't see the car again for 7 months. Upon my return I met my wife to be, and we were married in March 1966. The car never ran right for her. In June 1966 my ship deployed again to the South China Sea and my wife sold it and bought a VW Bug. I loved that car more than any I have owned since, but I love my wife more. Thanks for rebuilding one.
I'm 65 years old and purchased my first car in 1973, and it was a Bugeye, Austin Healey Sprite, and I have to say, YOU have just done so much justice to one of the best cars England has ever sent to this country! You've also made me remember so many things I loved working on and fixing on my 61 Canary Yellow Bugeve. Thank you so very much and wow, this is the best car restoration video EVER! Beautiful Work, and I know you'll enjoy it for years to come!!!
Master class in how to do a home restoration and in how to make an EXCELLENT you tube video.
You brought back some wonderful memories. During my earlier days with the Air Force (1960 - 1987) I owned two of the Bugeyes (sequentially) and loved them. Both were the common Bugeye color of powder blue. Another fighter pilot in my squadron got me interested in the cars, owning one himself. Outside of flying the F-104, my Bugeyes were the most fun machines I ever had. Thanks for the beautiful restoration that will keep the era alive!
Hi and hello from England..............the very best restoration I've ever seen, you should be proud of yourself, in my twenties I owned a little green Frogeye, now 75 you brought back to me some many happy memories, thank you so much, Leslie
JESUS!!! After watching this and the Beetle Restoration I have determined that that your old man is a GOD! He can do it all!!! Prep! Paint! Weld! Body work! Machinist! Fabrication! Upholstery! Parts Research and hunting alone is a skill! What doesn't this guy do?!? All in his 2 car garage and a side yard!!! I have a degree in automotive technology and don't feel I can comfortably do all of this myself without subletting chunks of this work out! I felt like I was watching old drama free episodes of American Hotrod! I know who I want to be when I grow up! Sit quiet and learn anything and everything this man says kid! I'm in awe of this guys technical ability!
Here in Australia they were called "bug-eyes" too.
That was one incredible journey through the restoration. I'm in awe of this bloke. Skilled,resourceful, meticulous and patient. Thank you for a great story. 👍
But in truth, they were frog eyes. :-)
I was glued to my chair watchi
yeah man... the patience. I don't know if I could have gone thru the painstaking process of this thing without rushing a part or two here or there
They were cute ... those frog/bug eyed sprites.
This is the single most impressive thing I've ever seen on RUclips ... Isiah Dark
said what i was thinking ,, 5 years in 1 hour the documentary makes it a very special car
The Project Binky boys have much to learn... 😁
The first car I ever purchased was a 1960 Bugeye sprite, bought it in 67/8, I was 15, paid 80$ for it, we grew up together, still have it and dream about doing what you did but know after watching you I don't have the skill or knowledge to do it. I think I'll capture a picture of your completed project, frame it, and pretend. Thanks for the great trip down memory lane. It was amazing.
When I was in the Royal Engineers I had a Frogeye Sprite finished yellow cellulose paint and used to push start it myself. To prepare it for my wedding I tried spraying it white but it would not cover the yellow which would show through the freshly applied paint. Several coats later I sprayed it dark blue and it looked fine. Next morning I push started it with a little too much choke and off it went dragging me holding onto the steering wheel. Fortunately the car park had an entry arch to stop trucks from using it so I did my best to stop the car by heading for the bottom left of the arch. It stopped, thankfully so I bought a new battery and spent the weekend removing my frogeye’s wink. Thank you for showing us your dedication necessary to bring a frogeye back to faithful service and fun better than new. Your meticulous care with the doors said it all for me.
This is the single most impressive thing I've ever seen on RUclips!
The skill, the dedication and the perseverance. Blows my mind. And the result is nothing but amazing! Thanks for the opportunity to tag along. 😁👍❤
Absolutely right...precision, conscientiousness and passion.
Absoloutly!!!
he's good for sure.
A wonderful way to spend 1 hour and 6 minutes. Thank you for posting.
Great job!! 👍🏻❤️
When I was a kid my Dad bought a 1961 and then he found a 1959 which was cherry. I remember he put an Abarth muffler on it and tires. Not sure why but he sold both of them before I was old enough to drive. I wanted to restore one and give it to him but our time ran out. Your video really brought a smile to my face. Thanks!
Max, I really enjoyed your rebuild of your Bugeye. I got a 1959 Bugeye for my graduation from High School in 1966. She was British racing green with a green interior. I wrecked it shortly before going in the Navy. I actually knocked the windshield off with my eye. I bought a 1961 in 1971 in Honolulu when I was at Pearl Harbor. It was black and I can't remember the seats color. The Navy shipped back to the states for me. My dad had a (I believe) 1960 one. It was white with a red interior. Your video took me back. Thanks
Longest U-tube I've ever watched and I was riveted the entire time. Fabulous work! Thanks for documenting this.
Same as I !
my eyes was all over this video did not stop watching it until the end
@@zippo3300 the yitv Ioo tv
1350itv
Don Parker yuygjgugugugufgbyojjjojjjojojojjjtfjiiigjj
Oh yes
Wow...all I can say is wow. Loved the project, and the videography was professional in quality. This should go viral. Your dad is an amazing talent as a car guy, and you are an amazing film maker. I've watched both car build documentaries (the VW Bug being the other), and enjoyed both equally. Artistic talent runs powerfully in your family. Great job, both of you. I'm a fan. I can't wait to see what you guys do next.
I've restored a few motorcycles, but sometimes haven't even remembered to take "before pictures", let alone video the whole process. My videos if they existed would likely be Adult rated for some of the language used to encourage stubborn parts together and express my frustration at regular intervals.
I have 3 bugeyes now and I've owned 10 since 1965. I've never had one or seen one as nice as yours. I wish I had the time, talent and patience to do any car as nice as this. I feel guilty because the worst Bug I have is in better shape than what you started with. I'm putting a Honda S2000 F20C in a Lotus 7 now and boy do I wish I could pick your brain. I'm having to engineer everything. You inspire me and I thank you. I'm 75 and I don't have 5 years to put this together. I ran the car at a local track called Thunderhill with a Toyota running gear and I can't wait to get this back there. All the new and upgraded parts are here now. The engine is being sleeved, the head is done. I have the header/4 to 1/ and I have to engineer from 3.5" round an oval - that splits to 2 ovals - design and make low profile Master flow mufflers with flattened perforated cones the go into a horizontal oval that becomes a vertical Oval that becomes the center fins of a rear diverter. I have to weld upper 4 bar attach points to my RX 7 3:90 posi rear - weld attach points to the frame for the Watts link - shock mounts. Put the loaner block with my head / pan / valve cover together to make motor mounts - trans mount - and start building exhaust. I'm welding up a new tranny tunnel for the larger 6 spd. that has to include a box around the clutch slave cylinder and access to the bleeder. Make new mount for the larger aluminum radiator. Build a new dash to mount the S2000 gauge cluster. I have an AEM ECU and that attaches to the stock wire harnesses that won't need readings from the many things my car won't have. Much to do. Wish me luck. I was team chief with an F-111 TDY crew at Mountain Home back in the 80's. Are you far from there?
Tom. vaninwagen@hotmail.com
A Sprite of this calibre was my first real ride in a sports car, a true sports car. That was way back in 62 and I have been hooked ever since. Now I have a Z-4 BMW'er and it is so mindful of that first ride. Volkswagens' , Porsche, and a lot trucks have come and gone, but nothing like that first ride in that Sprite. The Z-4 is really a close, very close second.
Wow!!! What fun to watch you go through the entire process. I love how every component was stripped down, refurbished, and put back together. Amazing. You should win every award available at those car shows!
Terrific to see someone see a project like this all the way through over a near 5 year period. A whole range of skills, but winning through in the end. Admiration for the man all the way.
I love how you said how much you’ve spent! Amazing how these projects run away with the budget!
I would never normally watch a one-hour documentary but I was rivetted the whole time. As well as being in awe of your skills and persistence, it was a very good reality check for anyone who wants to restore a badly degraded Bugeye. 500 hours for someone with a high level of skill gives you pause for thought. Also thanks for taking the extra time to make the video. It’s a wonderful public service and I thank you for it.
Thanks for the kind remarks.
Love the simplicity of these old British cars. You don't need a $50 000 workshop computer to rebuild or renovate these cars.
Really enjoyed all the build videos Max. Thank you
As a Brit living in Florida, I think it’s a wonderful transformation and excellent attention to detail. The dash looks better in leather and the seats bring it up a notch. Have fun at all the car shows.
I've always loved the bugeye sprite. Thank you for taking such care. It's an amazing rebuild and your work is outstanding. Can't believe you practically did it all.
Had one back in the early 70's, thoroughly enjoyed watching your video, brought back many great memories. Thanks for sharing!!!!!!!
Awesome job! Especially the lovely interior! Cheers.
I really enjoyed the video it brought back a lot of good memories. Back in the late 60's my Dad bought a 59 and later a 61. He just did the basic tune ups and some little things like an Abarth mufflers. I remember he made a draft gage to balance the carbs. My Mom only road in it a few times becasue it messed up her hair. Both cars were racing green. I wish I had been more of a part of that part of his life. He would have liked that. I'm 74 now and still play with cars. (32 Chevy, 35 Dodge, 68 Camaro, and now a 65 Plymouth Super Stock clone) Thanks again, he was back with me for a few!.
The first car I ever bought was a used 61 Sprite. I'd never seen one and drove up behind one at a stop light. I had my wife jump out and run up and ask if they wanted to sell it, They said yes and the deal was done for $600.00. It was a beautiful blue, but after we had it a week the blue started blowing off and revealed the original white paint. Apparently they painted right over the wax. I repainted it burgundy with a white stripe down the middle, don't know why, I just liked it, and it did look good. It ran fine, we had a lot of fun, my wife commuted in it and had to go to the chiropractor every week to get her back fixed from bouncing down the road. It didn't want to start if it was below 40 degrees, so we traded it for a TR4 that had Solex carbs and would run at any temp. But that's another story. Thanks for sharing this video!
What a great video. Would rate this one of the best I’ve seen. A lot of time and effort and knowledge went in on this project! Great!
Thank you Max, you are a brilliant craftsman. Today I was able to forget about the World's problems while watching your great restoration. Your video with just the right amount of commentary and time-lapse was just perfect to watch and listen to.
It was also great to see how you physically started strong and after nearly 5 yrs finished strong. More power to you Max.
Wow! Everything about this is high quality--not only the restoration, but the film production, too. Thank you. I admire your work!
Unbelievable! You are my new hero. Complete restoration in a garage and patio with Harbor Freight tools. I was an auto mechanic in the 60's then went to medical school. While at college in Laramie Wyo I found a bright yellow bugeye which I finally obtained by tradiing my 1 ton International panel truck that I paid $150.00 for. Then Sprite and I were off to Denver for medical school. While there I found a 1275 engine and birdcage tranny some guy left in a gas station. the station was closing and couldn't find the guy, so I got all the stuff (with some extras like dampeners) for $100. That Sprite had essentially no rust.and so you know I can't remember who I sold it to. I often wish I still had it. Your video which demonstrates over the top skill is as every one says, remarkable. Thank you.
Beautiful job in every aspect. Having such a wide range of skills saved you a lot of money. Thanks for sharing!
Awesome, what a beauty she turned out to be! I had watched all the individual episodes already, but had to watch this complete one as well of course :)
Amazing job!
After taking 3 years on a '66 Mustang and 4 years on a '44 Willys jeep, i always tell people it takes way longer than you think it will on a full restoration. Well done Sir! The sprite looks Awesome !
Very well done, thanks for putting this full version together!
Absolutely amazing! What a lovely feeling you must have had at the end. Worth every minute I should imagine. Kudos!
That man has talent! I laughed when he said that he wasn't a professional... it sure looks professionally done to me.
Actually, it doesn't. With the rotisserie and some metal being removed, there was high risk of bowing in the middle which could account for panel gaps later. Any parts like this being removed and the rest of the body MUST be braced and help in place with crossmembers.
I don't even know if yo get or read these comments, nevertheless I want to thank you for sharing your last 4.5 years restoring your bugeye. I spent quite a bit of time driving around getting crazy with a friend's 59 bugeye. It was so much fun, lots of good memories came to the surface watching this. Thanks again, you did a phenomenal job on your car, you should be very proud of it. Everyone who sees it or rides in it is blessed because of labor of love. Congratulations
Absolutely the best restoration vid that I have seen on RUclips. Great videography and such a lot of skill and perseverance. Thank you so much !
Brilliant job! Great looking car and amazing attention to details all through, well done!
Beautiful restoration. The Frogeye was one of the first foreign cars I drove. Always wanted one. Never got one. Will never have one. But your project helps ease the pain. Thanks
Your pain is not founded in reality. I bought a low mileage 1960 Sprite in 1962. Took a long time to find one which had not been totally thrashed in just 2 to 3 years. Engine was OK, many other things were just cheap crapola. Imagine my chagrin at having to replace the carbon faced clutch throw out bearing at just 25,000 miles. At that point American cars had been using steel ball and roller throw out bearings for at least 50 years. Merely a toy for teenagers back then, still nothing but a turd now.
I had a '61 Bugeye years ago as well as a '57 100/6. I now have a '66 3000 BJ8 which is also Old English White. I, like you, opted for a nonstandard interior- tan. I wish my doors fit as well as yours do! Great work!
Enjoyed your Beetle restoration, and absolutely loved this. My projects sometimes run multiple years as well, so I felt right at home, like I was watching a neighbor or a friend. Thanks for the great work, and the nice job documenting this for us to enjoy.
Hello from England, thank you for this video I enjoyed every minute of it you have a lot of patience and skill.
Amazing restoration.... I hope you're extremely proud, and show at lots of events. A big well done Sir.
Well done Max!!! During my senior years in 12 and 13 in high school, I lifeguarded during the summers and my transportation was an Austin Healey Sprite Mk II. I loved that little Car and did all the work myself, with exception of having the engine rebuilt. But I took the engine out myself and put it back in. For fun, I would adjust and synchronize the twin SU's. At 75 now, I sincerely hope that you enjoy yours as much as I enjoyed mine. Even today, I think its big brother, the Austin Healey 3000 Mk III BJ8, is the most beautiful, even outshining the E Type Jag. Best of luck.
Bill in Toronto
My dad had 13 Bug eyed sprites. He use to restore them. Your car brings back great memories. Great job it’s beautiful.
I watched through the video, I need to say you are impressive and I love your work so much.
Amazing video! What dedication and hard work, congrats!
What an amazing restoration. As a former Sprite owner (why did I let it go?) I am just so impressed with the level of craftsmanship. The look on your face after the first test run sums up the pride you have in your project. Fantastic job. Don't sell it, show it. That must be the best restoration ever. Well done
Awesome project and video! Thanks for sharing the journey! Never wanted a Bugeye ... until now!
I'll say this, this guy has a great t-shirt collection.
And a great set of 'safety boots'. HA - I guess we have all been guilty of similar matters.
@@geneva760 Yes please buy some steel toe cap boots and keep the sandals for the beach.
@@geneva760 It only hurts when you weld in bare feet.
@@Mercmad Or when a red-hot 3/8" dingleberry goes in your shoe and burns a deep hole in the side of your foot. That gets sensitive.
@@geneva760 0
Have always loved the Bug Eyes! Along with the TR4, wanted one of these when I in my early 20s. Great job!
Thank you Mr. Willson, for uploading this video, which was your and so many others’ work and persistence and passion for years. As I sit in my house on a partial quarantining because of Covid-19, it has sparked memories of working with my dad many years ago on my first car, a bugeye Sprite, and later a Volkswagen I had. Most of all though, I appreciate you and your wife and family for bringing sanity and wholesomeness into these difficult times by sharing this. Yours is a calming presence, and I appreciate how talented and hard-working you are.
My dad loved the Bugeye Sprite and owned and restored several. The last one he had was a project someone started a 215 Buick V8 installation. He got it to the point it was drivable, and sold it shortly thereafter. That was in 77. Probably wasn’t the best handling car with that setup and know he didn’t have the money to put into it and really make it right. These vids remind me of him ,
Congratulations on finishing your project. I've always wanted one of those old Sprites!
Beautiful resto on that FROG EYE Sprite
Yes, it's a FROG EYE!
Absolutely, but you know these Americans like using funny names for stuff!
@@joolsfreeman4359 Yes, we are quite the humorous bunch. We say things like Aluminum, because that's the original spelling. And we have crazy ideas such as rustproofing on autos as well as radical concepts like using negative grounds (earths for the steak and kidney pudding set) so your car won't spontaneously combust. (yes, AH 100 in my garage ignition off key out)
@@joolsfreeman4359 Ribbet, ribbit.
@@stubee2011 Don't you love the dissimilar metal electrolysis rot between the aluminum body and the steel fenders? I wonder how often the plastic coated fabric beading was supposed to be replaced... When I got my 100-6 it was far and away too late for that to make a difference. Loved that car, tho...
Excellent result! Very succinct for a full build. I came very close to purchasing a Bugeye Sprite back in 1971, but the insurance was too expensive for a 'poor' college student at the time so I had to settle for a 1964 VW Type 1 with a metal sunroof.
The most entertaining car rebuilt video I ever saw on RUclips. It's original, simple, and edited in the neatest way possible and the most impressive engine and car body rebuilt with such skill and dedication plus some awesome humor which makes this video segment way unique than any others. this video deserves more likes and subscribers from all over the globe eh.. kudos!!
Well done Max.I am part way through my own Bugeye - you give me hope that there is light at the end of the tunnel!
Lovely job. So glad you stuck with it. So many would have given up. 👍
What a wonderful story of a very thorough restoration of this little classic. I am totally in awe of your dedication and skill and the patience and support of your wife. I hope you enjoy that bug eye for a long time. I owned a 3A from new in 66 to 72 and appreciate it more now.
My first car was a '59 Bug Eye. I drive it for three years. Really fun to drive. I saw one in an antique shop recently and started to entertain thoughts of an other. Then I saw one on eBay for .99 cents. No bids. Fortunately I came to my senses. I have enough projects. Enjoying your Great video was enough for now.
"What an awesome project" is an understatement. I take my hat off to you Sir. and good taste and selection. the result justified the journey. I wished I was your neighbor..
awesome to see a full version! I'm 3 days into a 2 week refresh on my Bugeye so its great timing for some motivational footage, got videos up on my channel as well
Superb job - great to see! Brought back so many memores of tootling around Yorkshire in a battered Frogeye in the 1970's. Thank you!
more than the amazing documentary of re-cration of a dead car !!!! You are an absolut Zen Master above your professional and techno-mechanical ability!!! Thank you so much of sharing this document here. Cheers Sir.
What a fantastic project and what a beautiful restoration! Also, it's great to hear an American say "bonnet" :)
I had two Bugeyes when i was in school and loved them. What a beautiful restoration !
Mike K COOL MIKE I STILL OWN MY ONE AND ONLY.
You did a great job, I'm glad you put the video together in one VLOG, start to finish.
Absolutely fantastic restoration done so by a great guy who is multi skilled and talented. Hats off to a wonderful result. Nice to see that there is still love to save these little gems from Britain. Beautiful car which will last another 50 years or more for the next generation to appreciate.
Great restoration,! you should be very proud of all you have done!
Excellent work sir,i congratulate you, you should be proud of yourself. Well done.
You did a fantastic job, you had a vision and you never lost sight of that goal. My very first sports car was a 1963 AH Sprite, so I know where your automotive heart is, thank you for the excellent documentation youtube video.
Max Wilson all I got to say is I absolutely love all the pride & detailed work that you have put into your project!! Awesome awesome build buddy & well done!!
This is the second of your videos I've seen, the first being the old red vw bug you did(it didn't end up red though). Thankyou for your step by step guide as you went through each process, I wish I was younger and looking for a career path. Cheers from Downunder.
One of my favorites from my teenage years along with the MG Midget.
Thank you, friend. Not only did you teach us all something about your amazing craft, you lovingly restored one of the greatest little cars to ever be designed. My first car was a 1960 Bugeye, and I keep hoping for some company to come along and re-introduce this classic beauty the way they have the VW Beetle, the Fiat 500, and especially, the Mini. Imagine this car with one of the modern liter-class motorcycle engines and less than 2,000 pounds.
Just saw this for the first time 15/10/20 and enjoyed every moment of it!! I LOVE the way you do so much of the work in your own garage (I'm the same for my 1955 Chevy for close to 20 years - on the road since July 2019) as I really have no admiration for the wallet restorers. I really liked the way the repetitive stuff was included but sped up, gave me more appreciation for the hard work done to achieve these great results.
Love the way you make things work out, even it is your way not someone else's.
Keep up the great work/play!
Living the dream. I love this mechanic. I wish I could do that one day
magnificent job! i think I would look down right good in this car! lolzz love it!
Absolutely amazing Mark. I have always loved the bug eye and you have a restoration that most of us just dream about. Tremendous skill and patience mate. Well done and thanks for sharing your little slice of Heaven with the rest of us.
From a English guy in Canada bloody well done mate fantastic video. You did that car proud.it looks great. Thank you.
great work, of love. Imagine when they made it in a day or so...back in the day.
I want to do that with my 59 Minor...... 13 years later !
wife always comes out in the end. "Oh how nice."
Golda H She’s cute she is so proud.
She speaks my car language, “thingy jobber”.
Thanks for the video and all the hard work. I had one, bought it early in 1963. White, black interior, 86 MPH flat out. Great memories
Beautiful work! Thanx for sharing. LOVE the interior!
Absolutely wonderful. Love the documentary you do and the editing is phenomenal. Of course his knowledge of the intricate workings of cars is astounding aswell. Do you have any idea what the next project will be if there is a next one? I love rewatching this and the bug restoration.
great detail nice vid on it all credit given on how well you kept all those clips over that time frame I would have fogoten where i had kept them
Nice job Max! I appreciate your sharing this video with us.
Amazing dedication and talent. So good to see our classic uk cars being cherished stateside. Greetings from across the pond and keep 'em comin'. Thank you for this wonderful documentary.