
Toby Wilson
Head of Department
LOT 410
1951 Healey Silverstone Roadster Replica Registration no. SSU 183 Chassis no. C1978 Engine no. B6797
The Donald Healey Motor company completed its first car in 1945, going into full-time production the following year. The firm's first offering was a 2.4-litre Riley-powered sports saloon with welded-up chassis and Healey's own trailing arm independent front suspension. For the clubman racer there was the dual-purpose Silverstone, a model equally at home on road or track. The saloon's engine and basic underpinnings were retained, though with shorter frame, stiffer springing and, unusually for the time, a front anti-roll bar. Designed by Len Hodges, the lightweight two-seater body was crafted in aluminium while the car's purposeful look was enhanced by cycle wings and closely spaced headlamps behind the radiator grille. Another unusual feature was the spare wheel protruding from its compartment in the tail, thus doubling as a bumper! The Silverstone was soon making a name for itself in rallying and circuit racing, and many future stars gained their first track experience in one, most notably Tony Brooks.
First registered in 1989, this well-presented Silverstone replica incorporates a 1951 Healey Tickford chassis and Riley 2.4 litre engine, the glassfibre body having been moulded directly from a genuine Silverstone. The car has recently benefitted from a partial overhaul which included a total respray, fitted doors, correct mounted behind the grille headlamps and a partial engine overhaul. Un-used in recent months, this handsome Silverstone replica is reported as running well although would benefit from all the usual safety checks given the recent period of inactivity. Offered with a V5C document, 'SSU 183' is reported to be running well.
Vendor Score Total: 73/100
Bidders should note that the automated 100-point Seller's Assessment is provided by each Seller at the point of consignment using the guidelines below, and is not provided, assessed or verified by Bonhams MPH. Accordingly Customers (Bidders) are on notice that each vehicle is offered "as is / as seen" subject to the Conditions of Sale for the auction, and Customers (Bidders) are strongly recommended to view the Lot(s) being offered, before bidding, in order to satisfy themselves as to their condition; Bonhams MPH will not entertain disputes over Sellers' Assessments.
Key for sellers' assessments:
1/5 POOR. A project vehicle | Requires urgent attention | Damaged | Parts missing
2/5 AVERAGE. Useable condition | Requires some attention | Light damage
3/5 GOOD. Drive away | Presents well | Good history file | Drives well
4/5 VERY GOOD. Well restored | Running and driving with no noticeable faults | Sound throughout
5/5 EXCELLENT. Concours condition | Beautifully presented | Driving very well
EXTERIOR TOTAL: 23/25
Body Work: 5
Paint: 5
Glass: 5
Chrome/Plastics/Trim: 4
Wheels/Tyres: 4
RUNNING GEAR TOTAL: 12/20
Gearbox/Clutch: 3
Axles: 3
Suspension: 3
Brakes: 3
INTERIOR TOTAL: 15/20
Seats: 5
Dashboard/Door cards/Carpets: 3
Headlining: 4
Trim: 3
ELECTRICAL TOTAL: 8/10
Main components: 4
Ancillary components: 4
ENGINE TOTAL: 12/20
Starting: 3
Running: 3
Under Bonnet: 3
Mechanical components: 3
Car History File: 3






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