LOT 142
1956 Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2 Chassis no. BN2-L/233237 Engine no. 1B2/233237
Sold for US$56,000 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 142
1956 Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2
1956 Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2
Chassis no. BN2-L/233237
Engine no. 1B2/233237
Chassis no. BN2-L/233237
Engine no. 1B2/233237
2,660cc OHV Inline 4-Cylinder Engine
2 SU Carburetors
110bhp at 4,400rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission with Overdrive
Front Independent Suspension - Live Rear Axle
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
*A fully restored Healey with 'LeMans' performance enhancements
*Classic Old English White color scheme
*Finely executed and detailed restoration
*Original left-drive, USA delivery example
*The quintessential 1950s British sports car
THE CAR OFFERED
Donald Healey's stylish Austin-Healey 100 caused a sensation when it debuted at the 1952 London Motor Show. Intended as a low-cost, high-performance sports car targeted at the lucrative US market, the svelte little roadster's beautiful flowing bodywork and adjustable lay-down windscreen lent it a particularly striking and purposeful profile. Fitted with a large, torquey 2,660cc four-cylinder engine supplied by Austin, the light and streamlined Healey 100 was a genuine 100mph-plus car. A three-speed gearbox was equipped with overdrive in both 2nd and 3rd gears, essentially giving the car five speeds – subsequently updated to a 4-speed 'box for even better flexibility. Thanks to Donald Healey's clever marketing, the sleek Austin-Healey 100 became the sports car to own among young Americans and remains one of the most charismatic and collectible British roadsters ever produced.
This outstanding 1956 100-4 is a desirable 'BN2' series car, featuring such welcome refinements as the 4-speed gearbox and wider, more efficient front brake drums. According to its accompanying BMIHT Certificate, this car was completed in June of 1956, delivered to the USA, and finished in duo-tone Old English White and black with black upholstery. According to the consignor's research, the original owner was Mr. Jesse Cox, who owned the Healey from 1956 to 1967. He sold it to Robert Napalitan, who reportedly never drove or registered the car, but kept it until 1988. It was then acquired by Michael Meindorfer, who intended to restore it but again, never registered or drove the car. In September 2012, it was acquired by BMC Classics of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, who finally treated the car to a well-deserved body-off restoration. The following year, it was sold to an enthusiast in Colorado who enjoyed the car for 8 years before it was acquired by the consignor.
As part of the extensive restoration, it was updated with a period-style 'LeMans Kit' including the larger carburetors, airbox, and louvered alloy bonnet as fitted to the factory 100M models. The car was restored in all white (as opposed to its original duo-tone scheme), with beige upholstery and carpets. Sitting on gleaming chrome wheels and with the signature lay-flat windscreen, it exemplifies so much of what we love about classic British roadsters. A great Healey to enjoy on rallies and tours, including pre-57 driving events this 100-4 is very likely to satisfy your British sporty-car needs.
Additional information
Looking for a similar item?
Our Cars specialists can help you find a similar item at an auction or via a private sale.
Find your local specialistAuction Viewings
- 23 January 2025, 09:00 - 18:00 MST
- 24 January 2025, 09:00 - 18:00 MST
- 25 January 2025, 09:00 - 11:30 MST
