1955 Austin Healey 100/4 BN1 M Le Mans

From the distinguished Austin-Healey 100 to the iconic Austin-Healey 3000, the brand's prominence in the sports car world is unparalleled. This legacy continues with the 1955 Austin-Healey, a vehicle that embodies the essence of Austin-Healey, pushing the boundaries of excellence in a way that no other sports car does.

With nothing to stop the Austin Healey 100/4’s ability to reach 100mph, the 1950’s sportscar is considered to deliver the most original and most pure driving experience of all the big Healey’s- agile, punchy and incredibly versatile.

With muscular styling, a tarmac tearing 90hp engine which racing historian Griffith Borgeson wrote "Such high torque at low engine speed is one of the competition assets of the Austin-Healey. Another is its durability", independent front suspension with live rear- axle and leaf-springs, lightweight steel construction, a racy lay-down windscreen and an engaging 3 speed manual transmission with overdrive the 100/4 had manufacturers like MG, Triumph and Jaguar scrambling to keep up. The BN1 also forwent racing and in 1952 entered the 24hrs of Le Mans finishing in 12th and 14th places, an incredibly noteworthy achievement for what were essentially mildly modified road cars.

The Austin Healey available here is an Australian delivered, 100/4 BN1 delivered new to Larke Hoskins, Sydney in March of 1955.

As it presents today this BN1 was originally ordered in Carmine Red over Red interior trim, optioned as a dealer fitted 100M ‘Le Mans’ modification kit with a laminated windscreen and a Miles-per-hour speedometer.

The Le Mans specification was an optional upgrade provided by the factory that includes a pair of 13⁄4" SU HD6 carburetors, a special inlet manifold and cold air box, high-lift camshaft, stronger valve springs and distributor with an alternative ignition advance curve that all works to increase power from the standard 90 to 100 hp.

Today this vehicle is in wonderful condition, still retaining its numbers matching engine, the interior has been re-trimmed in its original order colour combination with correct new carpets sourced out the US and the paintwork carries a superb finish throughout.

During 2015 and 2019, this Healey underwent a sympathetic restoration and extensive mechanical works with local Australian Austin Healey specialist and all parts were source from renowned UK Austin Healey specialist Dennis Welch Motorsport.

The engine was rebuilt to 100S specification, using an exact copy of the period Westlake aluminum cylinder head ported and matched, roller rockers, 100S Camshaft, steel rods, forged pistons, re-sleeved and bored to standard and ultralight fly wheel with all new cold airbox, carburetors, cooling system and much, much more.

The gearbox was upgraded with an original reconditioned BN2 4-Speed transmission with overdrive, new alternator made to look like a period Dynamo, the suspension, steering rack and brakes were all reconditioned and upgraded making this car one of the best Austin Healey BN1's we've ever driven.

As you come into a corner gripping the wooden-rimmed Moto-Lita steering wheel, you understand what it's all about. The little (big) Healey is direct and predictable, you are comforted yet engaged by its handling capabilities, the torquey 2.7 litre Inline 4 Cylinder hauls the lightweight body out of the corner and leaves the driver itching for the next bend.

Accompanying the car is a folder full of receipts documenting the build, British Motor Heritage Trust Certificate, 100M Le Man's Authenticity Certificate and two keys.

This turn-key Austin Healey 100/4 BN1 would be a great addition to any collection or the perfect first classic, don’t miss this opportunity to acquire an iconic that will always be remembered and famed for its nimble and small stature yet great big attitude.