Lot 259 - 1955 12852 100/4 BN1
| Lot Number | 259 |
| Registration | KRX521 |
| Chassis Number | BN1224049 |
| Engine Number | 1B224049 |
| Odometer reading | 70,248 miles |
| Estimate | £28,000 - £35,000 |
| Result | Sold - £34,160 |
The Austin-Healey 100 was built between 1953 and 1956 by BMC
(British Motor Corporation).
It was developed by Donald Healey to be produced in-house by
Healey's small car company in Warwick and based on Austin A90
Atlantic mechanics. Healey built a single 'Healey Hundred' for the
1952 London Motor Show, and the design impressed Leonard Lord,
Managing Director of Austin, so much that a deal was struck with
Healey to build it in quantity at Austin's Longbridge factory. The
car was renamed the Austin-Healey 100. The '100' name comes from
Donald Healey, who selected the name from the car's ability to
reach 100mph, as opposed to the Austin-Healey 3000, which is named
for its 3000cc engine. The first 100s (series BN1) were equipped
with the same 90bhp engines and manual transmission as the stock
A90, but the transmission was modified to be a three-speed unit
with overdrive on second and top. The 2660cc engine featured an
undersquare 87.3 mm bore and 111.1mm stroke. Girling 11" drum
brakes are fitted all round, front suspension is independent using
coil springs and at the rear is a rigid axle with semi-elliptic
leaf spring while the steering is by a cam and lever system. A BN1
tested by The Motor magazine in 1953 had a top speed of 106mph and
could accelerate from 0-60 mph in 11.2 seconds. These were
built from May 1953, and replaced by the BN2 model in mid-1955.
This delightful Austin Healey BN1 has been with the current vendor for the last three years; we are informed that he took a long time looking for a suitable BN1 before settling on KRX521, and after inspecting the vehicle, it is easy to see why. The cream and white coachwork is in good order and the red leather seats have an exceptionally pleasant patina about them. Benefitting from two new six- volt batteries, the engine fires up immediately and we are advised that she drives as well as she looks. A comprehensive history file accompanies this Healey; a perfect choice for the remainder of the summer months, this charming example cannot fail to remind you what classic motoring is all about.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.