1956 100-4 BN2 Austin Healey

British two place roadsters epitomize the essence of vintage sports car motoring. Nimble handling, spirited wind in the hair driving and entertaining down the road performance are their hallmarks and make them both desirable to drive and, with the purchase of the appropriate vehicle, an appreciating collectible.

Our 1956 Austin Healey 100/4 is just such a car. First, because it falls under the VSCCA rules for age of manufacture, it would be welcomed in vintage racing events and vintage rallies. And while 100/4's are excellent sunny Sunday drivers and fun cars and coffee candidates, knowing that they are also sought after by competition minded buyers adds to their investment potential.

This car could be personalized to be a Factory 100 M, “Le Mans” or 100 S "Sebring". Originally, these were offered “in period” through Austin Healey dealers after two 100 S finished the 1953 Le Mans 24 Hours in 12th and 14th place. Because the Austin Healey factory only produced 640 100/M or “Le Mans” cars, Donald Healey had come up with a way to satisfy the “Win on Sunday, Sell on Monday” market. Of course, these kits were not a “badge engineering” exercise. They included parts that truly improved the 100's already respectable performance. Besides suspension enhancements, the kits included higher compression pistons, a high lift camshaft and stronger valve springs. A new Lucas distributor with a modified advance curve was included to improve performance. And a new intake manifold with two SU HD6 1.75” carburetors was installed sporting a cold air box that improved airflow into the engine. The kit was estimated to increase the stock engine's power by over 10-hp. To complete the picture, Le Mans conversion kits included louvered “bonnets” and front-mounted driving lights. The 100 S wasBuilt primarily with racing in mind, the aluminium-bodied "100S" (for Sebring) model developed 132bhp (98kW) at 4700rpm. Only 50 production cars were made, plus an additional five works development/special test cars hand built by theDonald Healey Motor Companyat Warwick.To minimize weight and improve performance the cast iron cylinder head was replaced by a Weslake designed aluminium one, and the overdrive unit was not installed. Dunlop disc brakes were used all-round, the world's first production car to feature them both front and rear.To further lighten the vehicle, bumpers and hood (convertible top) were eliminated, the grille reduced in size, and the windscreen made of plastic. In all, weight was reduced by approximately 200lb (91kg).

This is a chance to either build your own 100-4 M or 100-4 S to your specifications from an original numbers matching example or if you are in need of an engine which alone is worth in the excess of $10,000 here is your chance.