1955 Austin-Healey 100-4
Chassis No. BN1-L/219630
Engine No. 1B/219630 (Matching Numbers)
Body No. 5407
A Spectacular & Stylishly Prepared BN1
Numbers-Matching Engine per British Motor Industry Heritage Trust
Certificate
Exceptionally Maintained Older Nut and Bolt Richard Chrysler
Restoration
Fitted with the 'Le Mans' Modifications
Eligible for Prominent Worldwide Touring Events
Supported by Original Books, Tools, Emergency & Weather
Equipment
Widely considered the "original" Austin-Healey, the "Healey
Hundred" Series cars were built from 1953 to 1956. The big four
engine gave the Austin-Healey 100-4 two-thirds more power than its
MG contemporary and 120% more torque, all in a streamlined and
better-balanced package, that weighed no more than the MG. Built
largely for the important American market where they fit neatly
between Triumph's TR2 and the larger Jaguar XKs. A true two-seat
roadster, with a purity of line and sense of purpose that has made
them quite sought after by enthusiasts of British sports cars,
accentuated by a rakish fold-down windscreen. For 1955 and 1956 a
special edition of the 100-4 was produced to commemorate the
success at Le Mans and offer enthusiast buyers the opportunity to
enjoy the best of what the company could offer.
Only 640 Factory built 100M LeMans would be realized during the
production run. As such, owners of a standard 100-4 who couldn't
get their hands on the factory built examples went back to the
dealer for the "M Modification" and upgrades. This included a
louvered bonnet, special aluminum cold air box, special cam, tuned
carburetors, and ignition amongst other subtleties. This formula
produced a potent little racer that was much quicker than the
original with sporty looks and a superb performer.
Completed to the highest and most correct standard possible by
well-known Marque Specialist Richard Chrysler of Canada. Having
competed nationally and awarded Concours Gold at the 50th
anniversary puts this Healey in a very special category.
According to British Motor Industry Heritage Trust, chassis number
BN1L219630 was completed on September 28, 1954 as a LHD North
American Export specification car distributed through the Austin
Motor Company of America. It wore Old English White paint over Red
trim and Red hood (top and accompanying weather gear). Optional
equipment included a heater, laminated windscreen, and a
miles-per-hour speedometer.
Accompanying literature states the Healey spent quite some time in
Ohio, when in 1987 it was stripped for rebuilding and remained in a
suspended state of restoration from 1988/89-February 2001, when it
was acquired by Doug Knight of Canada with the assistance of marque
specialist Richard Chrysler. The car was immediately entrusted to
Rich for a total concours restoration. It was with Richard's
oversight that the entire car was completely disassembled,
catalogued and stripped to the bare metal. Panel fitment was test
fitted, matched and treated to beautifully rich Old English White
paint job it carries today.
The engine and transmission were overhauled at the time of
restoration, as were all suspension, steering, braking, fuel and
electrical items including a new harness. Brightwork, fixtures and
more were all refinished and a correct new interior was completed.
The completed job was described as near-perfect and as such the car
was awarded 952 of 1,000 points at the Lake Tahoe 50th Anniversary
National Meet where it received a Concours Gold Certification from
the Austin Healey Club. In the years following, it would continue
to show, receiving additional awards, and later enjoyment on tours
and rallies throughout Canada and the United States.
A few years after the car had completed its show circuit, 219630
spent 2006-2007 receiving a 100M conversion, completed to correct
standards. A total engine rebuild was carried out by Howe Motor
Works including new pistons, bearings, blueprint and balanced
components, and a proper M specification grind on the cam. The
carburetors and ignition were adjusted, and the head built for
power. A correct aluminum air box and intake complete the
appearance along with correct clamps and reproduction factory
"warning" tags. Lastly, a proper 100M louvered bonnet (with stamped
body number) and strap was installed.
Following years of thoughtful stewardship, today the Healey 100
remains in excellent and very usable condition as a competitive
tourer or concours display. Outward appearances are correct in
period, complemented by a decorated badge bar and proper Lucas
head, fog and spot lamps. The cabin is correct in its presentation,
and lightly mellowed. Electronics appear in working order. All
weather gear is present including a full-cab tonneau cover, side
curtains with protective sleeve, and top.
The undercarriage and luggage compartment are of the same
consistency, with evidence of use and enjoyment, but very tidy,
polished and honest. The trunk comes fully trimmed and appointed
with a tool set, jack, spare, spare tire down, spanner, hammer, and
emergency equipment in individual tailored pouches.
219630 is supported by an original and reproduction Owner's
Handbook, original and reproduction Service manuals, original Parts
List book, original Dealer Brochures, servicing and restoration
dossier, restoration and historical photos, featured magazine and
newsletter publications, concours judging sheet, BMIHT Certificate
and more. In addition to an original restored steering wheel and
car cover.
Recently serviced for continued driven enjoyment, we offer this
well prepared and highly complete Austin-Healey 100 in 'Le Mans'
spec for worldwide purchase from our Houston, Texas showroom.
$92,500.00
To learn more about this vehicle, please contact our sales
department at (281) 497-1000 or
[email protected]
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