1957 Austin Healey 100/6 BN4 Convertible

• First of the six-cylinder 'Big Healeys'
• Converted to right-hand drive
• Present ownership since 2016
• Only circa 2,000 miles covered in the last nine years

"After a really gruelling road test, I can say that this new sports model is ideal for Continental touring. It also stood up to lap after lap of the Nürburgring at racing speeds, without complaint, and that must be equivalent to a vast mileage under more humane conditions." – John Bolster on the Austin-Healey 100/6, Autosport, 12th October 1956.

Introduced for 1956, the 100/6 represented the most radical step forward in the Big Healey's development. Despite its initial success, sales of the original Austin-Healey 100 had begun to decline by the mid-1950s and so the model was revamped as the '100/6', BMC's 2.6-litre C-series six replacing the original four-cylinder Austin Atlantic engine. At the same time the wheelbase was lengthened from 7' 6" to 7' 8", which enabled the inclusion of two occasional seats in the rear of the BN4 variant. In 100-6 tune the pushrod six produced 102bhp - 12bhp more than its predecessor - though the inevitable weight gain meant that there was little if any improvement in performance, the car's top speed remaining at 103mph or thereabouts. Although stylistically very similar to the preceding 100, the 100/6 was nevertheless easily distinguishable by its 'crinkle' radiator grille and bonnet-top air intake. In 1957 an improved six-port engine became available, and this 117bhp unit was fitted to all the newly introduced BN6 two-seater roadsters. Top speed improved to 111mph and 1.7 seconds was cut from the 0-60mph time.

A well-maintained older restoration, this beautiful 100/6 was purchased by our vendor from Austin-Healey specialists Bill Rawles Classic Cars on 5th September 2016 (see invoice) since when it has formed part of a private collection of British sports cars. The mileage at that time was 97,101 and today is 99,055, meaning only circa 2,000 miles have been covered in some nine years. According to the vendor, who has never driven it in the rain, the car is in good/excellent condition having been maintained by Austin-Healey specialists. He says it is lovely to drive. In short: this is a car that drives as well as it looks.

Handsomely finished in two-tone Jet Black and Colorado Red with black interior, the car comes complete with a tonneau cover, canvas roof, side windows, spare wheel, jack, and tools including a lump hammer. The history file is extensive, containing MoT certificates dating back to 1993 and numerous bills and invoices for work undertaken over the years.