Austin-Healey 100-6 (1957)

Launched in 1956 the 100/6 Austin Healey was two inches longer than the 100/4 that it had succeeded, the bodywork was face-lifted to include a smaller, wider radiator grille placed lower, an air scoop was added to the bonnet, and the windscreen was fixed. More importantly the four-cylinder Austin A90 Atlantic engine was replaced by BMC's six-cylinder C Series engine from the Austin Westminster. The 100/6 was initially available in 2+2 guise (BN4), with the two-seater (BN6) version like the sale car following in 1957.

Our 1957 Overdrive example is very smartly presented with Red bodywork; believed to be an original RHD car sold new as a CKD version in South Africa, and enjoyed by just one owner there in a warm climate until their passing. Apparently then bequeathed to his niece in Australia, the car was taken to that country and then traded for an MG. Acquired in Australia by the last keeper, he imported it back to England in 2014, but sadly illness now dictates its sale.

Echoing the BMC rally cars of its era the interior though is rather smarter than that of the spartan period correct competition machines it features Red-piped Black vinyl bucket seats, Red-edged Black carpets and wood-rimmed alloy steering wheel. The car is complete with the bumpers not currently fitted and sports a pair of Lucas auxiliary lights, period driver's door mirror and rides on a set of good chrome wire wheels.

The odometer currently displays an unwarranted but possibly correct 37,166 miles. We sold a similar 100/6 with South African history last year and we were astounded by just how kind that climate had been to the car.

A good example of a fast-appreciating British classic, this car could if required, be further developed into a period correct Classic Rally car as a valuable White factory hardtop is available by separate negotiation.

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