To be sold at the Gooding & Company Scottsdale Auctions on January 18 and 19, 2013. For further details please visit www.goodingco.com or contact a vehicle specialist at 001.310.899.1960 or specialist@goodingco.com.
Engine Specifications:
2,660 CC OHV Inline 4-Cylinder Engine
Two SU Carburetors
110 BHP at 4,500 RPM
4-Speed Manual Gearbox
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
Independent Front Suspension with Coil Springs
Live Rear Axle with Semi-Elliptical Leaf Springs
About this Car:
While the early ownership history of this striking Austin-Healey is unknown, this 100/4 BN1 was reportedly acquired in 1974 by a high-profile Los Angeles owner. The BN1 was treated to a partial restoration before being purchased in 1990 by collector David Giller, of Springville, California. Mr. Giller was delighted to discover a 4-speed transmission had already been installed, and soon endeavored to complete a faithful rendition of the 100M, the customer-upgraded 100 that featured elements of Healey’s 1953 Le Mans race car.
Initially, a full mechanical rebuild was entrusted to British Car Specialists of Stockton, California, before Mr. Giller retained Duncan Emmons, a noted vintage racer and body shop propietor from Rancho Mirage, California, to conduct a full repaint. Mike Wilson of Visalia, California, completed the restoration by fitting a new interior, soft top, and installing the Le Mans Modification Kit, which included a cold air box, enlarged carburetors, a special-intake manifold, and a louvered aluminum competition-inspired hood with locking leather strap.
Upon completion of the restoration, Mr. Giller exhibited the Healey at several local shows before selling it to the consignor in 1999. The new owner soon returned the car to Wilson for a repaint in the original Austin-Healey color of Spruce Green as well as additional freshening. This work totaled approximately $30,000 in receipts, which are included in the car’s documentation. Following Wilson’s more recent work, the consignor exhibited the handsome 100M at the 2004 Valley Concours in Fresno where it took Third in Class; while in 2005, the car placed Second in Class at the Half Moon Bay Concours.
Accompanied by an original knock-off hammer, correct tools, and new side curtains, this early Austin-Healey offers crisp details, from its period-correct black upholstery with offset piping to the sporty Le Mans-style louvered hood. Since its showing in 2005, the car has been dutifully maintained with sparing use, save for monthly starts to ensure operating condition. The consignor estimates that no more than 2,300 miles have accrued since the last mechanical restoration.
An arresting example of Donald Healey’s beloved two-place roadster, this early Austin-Healey 100/4 BN1 promises a warm welcome at British car shows and local concours, as well as eligibility in a number of vintage touring events.
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