Regular entrant to the Woodcote Trophy, Tour Auto, Zandvoort and Modena Cento Ore

1955 Austin-Healey 100 to 100M Specification

Registration no. OSJ 919 Chassis no. BN1 227598

Footnotes

Following the Austin-Healey 100's sensational debut at the 1952 Motor Show, the works had entered two mildly modified cars in the 1953 Le Mans 24-Hour Race, which finishing in 12th and 14th places, a highly praiseworthy achievement for what were recognisably production sports cars. Accordingly, the name 'Le Mans' was chosen for a bolt-on tuning kit offered through Austin-Healey dealers, by means of which private owners could bring their cars up to a specification approaching that of the works entries. The kit included a pair of 1¾" SU HD6 carburettors plus special inlet manifold and cold air box, high-lift camshaft, stronger valve springs and distributor with alternative ignition advance curve. With the kit installed power increased from the standard 90 to 100bhp.

From October 1955 the conversion was available factory-fitted on the successor BN2 model in the form of the 100M. In addition to the Le Mans kit, the latter boasted high-compression pistons, stiffer front anti-roll bar, special Armstrong front dampers and a louvred bonnet. Power increased to 110bhp and top speed, with windscreen folded flat, to within a whisker of 120mph. The number of BN1s converted by their owners is unknown.

Restored between 2001 and 2009, this Austin-Healey 100 was acquired by the current owner in 2008 and since then has had over £100,000 spent on race/rally preparation and maintenance. The car has competed in many Woodcote Trophy events, achieving numerous class podiums, and has completed two editions of the Tour Auto, being driven back to the UK on both occasions. It has also participated in the Modena Cento Ore and many Equipe GTS events, and been driven to Zandvoort and back having secured a class podium.

The Healey is described by the private vendor as in very good condition with excellent engine, the latter having been rebuilt by renowned marque specialists John Chatham Cars in 2019 at a cost of £15,000. The only notified modifications are a 100M kit, a steering column knuckle (fitted for safety) and a roll cage and electrical cut-out to FIA specification. Accompanying documentation consists of sundry restoration invoices, a V5C Registration Certificate, and FIA/HTP papers. Interested parties should note this car has been meticulously prepared to be not only competitive on the race circuit and rally stage but also be able to cope with London traffic.