1958 Austin-Healey 100/6                                    ...

Hammer

£38,500

1958 Austin-Healey 100/6                                   

Chassis Number: BN4059378
Registration Number: 809 JRB
Recorded Mileage: 11,900 miles

- Right Hand Drive from new
- Older comprehensive restoration
- With just one family since the late 1980s
- Matching numbers example

Introduced in 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-liter 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.

Built on 28th March 1958, this lovely 100/6 was delivered new to the Bristol area, specified in Healey Blue over White, with wire wheels, a hardtop, a laminated front screen, heater and “Road Speed Tyres”.

Our vendor’s father acquired the Healey in March 1987 as a project car, proceeding to dismantle it completely and undertake an exhaustive restoration. The bodywork was stripped and a new wing was fitted to the offside, then built back up and refinished in its original colours. The engine and other mechanical components were stripped and rebuilt, and the car carefully reassembled. Now back on the road, the newly restored Healey took part in several events of the 1990s, notably the popular Norwich Classic run.

In the intervening years the Healey has always been dry stored and is preserved in excellent structural condition, showing only very slight paint defects and discolouration here and there. 809 JRB is offered for sale with its original Bristol-issued buff logbook, subsequent log books and current V5C, Heritage Certificate, several MoT certificates dating back to when the car was returned to the road in 1988, many bills for items purchased during the restoration, also the bill of sale when purchased by the family in 1987.

Little used in recent years, the owner’s son has decided it is now time to secure a new home for the beloved Healey. All in all a very genuine example and we are sure it will bring many years of enjoyment for the lucky next owner.