1956 Austin Healey 100 1956 Austin Healey 100
The Healey Hundred was the original design for the Austin-Healey. It was completely designed by one individual, Gerald Coker. The 100M was a Le Mans variation of the BN2 with an increased horsepower rating of 100-110. It featured bigger carburetors and modified distributor. Valve springs and anti-roll bars were added to the suspension. The Austin Healey 100 M "Le Mans" "factory-built" sports cars were produced between September 5, 1955 and July 16, 1956. According to factory records discovered in July of 1985, only 640 of these 100 M cars were made. This figure is based on the factory build cards, which called for a louvered bonnet. This factory produced series was designated the M model by Donald Healey. Cars converted later with Le Mans equipment are referred to "Le Mans" modified cars. They are not properly called 100 M cars as this was the name for just the limited production run of 640 cars. An additional several hundred (about 500) "Le Mans" Conversion Kits were sold to Austin-Healey dealers or car owners for conversion of standard 100 Austin Healey sports cars to "Le Mans" specifications. Of course, it should be remembered that such converted cars were the plan of Donald Healey, who fully expected owners and dealers alike to convert cars and benefit from the improved performance, appearance and value made possible with the "Le Mans" Modification Kit. This process is still popular today with owners of 100's. Interest in conversions has been fueled by the increased interest in the original 640 factory-built cars.This particular car is one of those Le Mans Modified cars. This 1956 Austin Healey 100 was a love affair with the previous owner who poured an estimated $45,000 into the car. This includes all of the specialty parts, many of which were sourced in England. This car only received the very best. The aluminum head referred to came from none other than Denis Welch, who has successfully raced they cars for 3 + decades. Now his son is taking the racing over and Denis is concentrating on maintaining and improving the Marque. With only 2115 miles since the restoration, the previous owner said that the car never let him down one single time. During that period he paid special attention to breaking in the motor, transmission and brakes. The paint on this car is nearly perfect with no notable imperfections. The same goes for the chrome bumpers in the front and rear, as well as all of the bright work. The car does have the Le Mans hood as well as the correct leather hood strap and fold down windshield. The black soft top is new and in great condition. It folds nicely behind the front seats. Inside, the black interior looks great and is nicely finished with red piping. The carpet is new as well as the door panels and dash. All gauges are in good working order and are in very good condition. There is a canvas tonneau cover included with the car. Under the hood, the inline 4 cylinder is fresh and runs perfectly. The motor has been upgraded with the larger carbs, aluminum air box and aluminum head. We have photos of the engine rebuild and parts used during assembly. This car does have the 28 degree Over/Drive which along with the other upgrades allows it to keep up with modern traffic without any effort. I would have no reservation in getting in the car tomorrow and taking a trip anywhere in the country. This is an amazing little car that was only sold due to medical bills and to avoid bankruptcy. This car was a true love affair and the gentleman we purchased it from wanted it to go to a new home that appreciates it as much as he did. VIN number is BN2L231546 and motor number is 1B213062M. Currently the car shows 2,116 miles and this is since the restoration.
1960 Dodge 100