Vehicle Description
To be OFFERED AT AUCTION at Auctions America’s Hilton Head event, November 5, 2016.
Chassis No.
BNL224877
Estimate:
$ 80,000 - $ 95,000 US
Widely considered the best of the “original” Austin-Healey models, the cars of 1955-56 offered a new four-speed gearbox and a corresponding leap in performance and drivability. Its big “four” provided far more power and torque than the contemporary MG TD, within a streamlined, lower and better-balanced package with no weight penalties. Production progressed quickly with most destined for America, where they bridged the wide gap between Triumph’s TR2 and Jaguar’s XK models.
Over 14,500 Austin-Healey 100s were built from 1953-1956, before the fours were succeeded by the six-cylinder 100-6 series. The two-seat 100-4s are highly sought-after today by enthusiasts, with a distinct purity of line and sense of purpose, accentuated by a rakish fold-down windscreen.
Once the Austin-Healey cars became widely collectable and perfect candidates for restoration; enthusiasts quickly realized that standards needed to be set for restoring and judging these motorcars. One of the most knowledgeable and leading experts for the marque was Rich Chrysler. He unfortunately passed away in 2012. Before he passed, he helped write the standards for judging and restoring these Austin-Healey motorcars.
The owner of this car states that this car was meticulously prepared to compete at the Pebble Beach Concours level. Numerous photos and a CD of the restoration process that is included add great provenance to this motorcar. Included with the car are notes for maintaining this special piece of history. Also accompanying the car are records that date back to the 1955. These documents include owner’s papers and photos of the life this car has lived.
This Ice Blue example has been frame-off restored, resulting in an extremely well presented car throughout. Under the hood is a strong inline four-cylinder engine that is fueled by two carburetors. Transferring power to the wire wheels is a manual transmission. The Austin-Healey is accompanied by a British Heritage Certificate; and is equipped with knock-off wire wheels, a knock-off hammer and a spare tire.
