Vehicle Description
The 24 hours of LeMans is regarded as one of, if not the most,
enduring and challenging races of all time. It is where great
racing drivers put their abilities to the ultimate test, and car
manufacturers see if their cars withstand going flat out for
24-hours straight. It is this race that inspired engineers to build
the legends of motor racing history, pushing the boundary of
aerodynamics, grip, and speed.
This prestigious race still serves as the proving grounds for both
racing drivers and car manufacturers, but it is nothing like it was
in period. The race was much more raw with the possibility of death
far higher, not just as a driver but for the spectators as
well.
These dangerous and highly competitive times are the context in
which the 100M was engineered. The raw sporting nature of the 100M
is what speaks so profoundly to their value as collector
automobiles and impressive sports cars. In comparison to the
standard 100-4's, there were not any massive differences visually
to the 100M's, but it was a combination of small changes that made
for the increased performance.
Primarily, these upgrades included a louvered bonnet, special
aluminum cold air box, performance camshaft, tuned carburetors, and
ignition. This formula produced a potent and precise racer that was
much quicker than the standard example with sportier looks and
better performance all around.
On offer is a factory prepared 1956 Austin Healey 100M LeMans,
chassis number BN2-L/231422, engine number 1B/231422. According to
the BMIHT Certificate, this example was built on March 27, 1956,
and delivered to Hambro Trading Inc. via Donald Healey and Company
Warwick. It was originally finished in Healey Blue with Old English
White coves over a blue interior. The certificate also confirms
that this example is a genuine factory built 100M 'LeMans'.
Additionally a 100M Registry Certificate is present with the car
which further supports the authenticity of this example. By our
inspection we have noted That the original and current engine,
body, and chassis tags all match and are correct as well as other
components and that the car is indeed a genuine example as stated
by both the BMIHT and the 100M Registry.
Exact history on this example is vaguely known from March 27th 1956
through 1971. A copy of a registration shows by 1971 it was owned
by a Mr. John Perriello of Rochester, NY. In 1973 Mr Perriello sold
the car to a Mr. Karl Kittelberger who kept the car until 1984 when
an appraisal sheet shows a review of the car followed by a bill of
sale in 1985 to the current owner/family. It remained with the
current family from 1984 through the present with the restoration
only taking place about 5 years ago. A few photos are present that
document the cars condition prior to restoration by BMC of
Philadelphia. It was completed to a very high standard with
correctness in mind and remains in superb restored condition with
only 100 or so miles contributed over the past 5 years.
The exterior of this example shows beautifully with the immense
care taken during the restoration very apparent. The paint scheme
has been altered from its original designation to an Ivory with
Black coves and Black interior, accented with matching Ivory
pipping on the seats. Although not correct, the paint itself still
presents fabulously, and the color combination is much more
uncommon and attractive, in our opinion.
The finish is consistent throughout the entire body of the car and
has a beautiful shine. Upon close inspection, we see a thin scratch
in the paint next to the rear bumper mount. Other than that item,
there are no other significant flaws regarding the paint.
Panel fitment is spot on and raises no quarrels. The chrome is in
excellent condition, free of notable pitting, scratches, or
clouding, presenting as a recently restored example should. The
rubber trim and seals are all supple, with no imperfections. This
example has just received a fresh set of Vredestein Sprint Classic
Tires which are mounted on a set of chrome wire wheels.
Looking over the interior, the black leather seats present no
issues, showing well. Neither of the seats have any notable wear or
imperfections. The door jams are neat and tidy, revealing excellent
finishing techniques and care in the restoration. There is not much
to the cockpits of these cars but what is there has been totally
refinished and shows as such. The gauges were rebuilt, and fully
operable, dash repainted, and new black rugs installed. The door
panels have incurred no flaws from entry and exit of the car,
matching the superb quality of the rest of this car.
Open up the louvered hood, and a near pristine engine bay is
revealed. The engine block has been completely redone in correct
Healey green. All related engine components have either been
replaced, rebuilt, refinished and or some combination. It should be
noted that the engine and chassis tag have been replaced and we do
have the originals in hand as well.
The trunk area presents very well, the black liner immaculate, the
metal clean, and no evidence that this example had any significant
rust repair. The underside of this 100M shows just as well as the
topside, with the quality of the restoration very much apparent.
The wheel wells are clean, the frame is straight, suspension
components are in order, and no items that would signal the need
for tending to.
Mechanically, every system has been carefully gone through and
sorted, making this example absolutely turn-key. The engine has
received a total rebuild as well as the transmission and overdrive
unit. Since this example had sat for a few years post its
restoration, Leading Edge Autosport in Westchester, Pennsylvania
completed a comprehensive service (fluids, bleed systems, spark
plugs, and new tires etc.).
Now, a turn of the key followed by a push of the starter button,
and the 110bhp engine fires up with a clean smooth idle. Once out
on the road the new clutch feels great, the gear changes are
smooth, the brakes are firm, and the engine is very responsive.
This example is equipped with electric overdrive that is fully
operational and a welcomed comfort to have when an extra gear is
needed; it engages and disengages without an issue. This Healey is
an utter joy to drive, very much a momentum car but the visceral
experience it has to offer is second to none.
In short, this lightly aged, recently restored, genuine Austin
Healey 100M 'LeMans' is near cosmetically flawless and mechanically
sound. It is ready for any show, rally, or tour on a local or
national level. This 100M is looking for its next caretaker and
custodian to be a part of this car's humble history. Included in
the sale, but only at an appropriate price point, is an extra
engine (rebuilt and sealed short block with only a little assembly
needed), spare gearbox, head, carbs, manifolds etc... Regardless a
Heritage Certificate, Tools, Jack, spare and tonneau cover are also
included along with various books and records.