Details
1954 AUSTIN HEALEY 100/4
Registration No.AH 1004
Chassis No. BN1-159309
Engine No. IB-274593
Black with red leather interior.
Engine: four cylinder, overhead valve, twin carburettors, 2,660cc, 90bhp at 4,000rpm; Gearbox: three speed synchromesh with overdrive on second and third gears; Brakes: front and rear drums; Suspension: independent front, live rear axle. Right hand drive.
The Austin Healey 100/4 was launched at the 1952 London Motor Show, immediately becoming a sensation. Donald Healey had produced a stylish, high performance sportscar that appealed to enthusiasts throughout the world. In fact, under six percent of the total production of Austin Healeys were sold in England, which makes the UK specification 100/4 particularly desirable amongst collectors.
The Austin Healey project began in the spring of 1951 with Gerry Coker taking on the responsibility for the wonderful styling. The power was provided by a rugged 2,660cc, four cylinder engine which was combined with Austin's three speed/overdrive gearbox. Performance was impressive indeed and the 100/4 produced over 90bhp at 4,000rpm. The first cars were built between October 1952 and February 1953 at Warwick from parts supplied by Austin and bodies built at Jensen Motors in West Bromwich. By July 1953 production was up to around twelve cars per week and the model was designated BN1.
The car on offer today must surely rank as one of the finest Austin Healey 100/4's that Christie's has had the pleasure in offering for sale. Retaining its original engine, this original right hand drive carley has been the subject of a meticulous chassis-up rebuild to the highest standard and without any regard to expense. It was completely stripped to a bare chassis and totally rebuilt, including all mechanical components. The paintwork is finished in black and is of a quality which would be difficult to surpass, and the detailing on the underside of the car and in the wheel arch area is absolutely outstanding. The interior is upholstered in the finest red leather with red leather-bound carpets and the car is complete with all new weather equipment. All the brightwork was replated to a very high standard and the sole aim of the restoration was to produce a car capable of winning the prestigious annual International Healey Weekend Concours; so the quality of finish, authenticity and mechanical condition had to be to the most impeccable standard.
The car was entered into the 1987 International Healey Weekend Concours at Chalcock Park in Warwickshire and literally swept the board, taking all the major prizes included the Best Car of the Show, the Donald Healey Shield, the Alan Ling Trophy and was, of course, placed first in its own class. Since this time it has seen limited use and it is testament to the quality of the restoration that the condition remains concours throughout.
It is sold with a current MoT certificate and the very appropriate registration number AH 1004.
Registration No.AH 1004
Chassis No. BN1-159309
Engine No. IB-274593
Black with red leather interior.
Engine: four cylinder, overhead valve, twin carburettors, 2,660cc, 90bhp at 4,000rpm; Gearbox: three speed synchromesh with overdrive on second and third gears; Brakes: front and rear drums; Suspension: independent front, live rear axle. Right hand drive.
The Austin Healey 100/4 was launched at the 1952 London Motor Show, immediately becoming a sensation. Donald Healey had produced a stylish, high performance sportscar that appealed to enthusiasts throughout the world. In fact, under six percent of the total production of Austin Healeys were sold in England, which makes the UK specification 100/4 particularly desirable amongst collectors.
The Austin Healey project began in the spring of 1951 with Gerry Coker taking on the responsibility for the wonderful styling. The power was provided by a rugged 2,660cc, four cylinder engine which was combined with Austin's three speed/overdrive gearbox. Performance was impressive indeed and the 100/4 produced over 90bhp at 4,000rpm. The first cars were built between October 1952 and February 1953 at Warwick from parts supplied by Austin and bodies built at Jensen Motors in West Bromwich. By July 1953 production was up to around twelve cars per week and the model was designated BN1.
The car on offer today must surely rank as one of the finest Austin Healey 100/4's that Christie's has had the pleasure in offering for sale. Retaining its original engine, this original right hand drive carley has been the subject of a meticulous chassis-up rebuild to the highest standard and without any regard to expense. It was completely stripped to a bare chassis and totally rebuilt, including all mechanical components. The paintwork is finished in black and is of a quality which would be difficult to surpass, and the detailing on the underside of the car and in the wheel arch area is absolutely outstanding. The interior is upholstered in the finest red leather with red leather-bound carpets and the car is complete with all new weather equipment. All the brightwork was replated to a very high standard and the sole aim of the restoration was to produce a car capable of winning the prestigious annual International Healey Weekend Concours; so the quality of finish, authenticity and mechanical condition had to be to the most impeccable standard.
The car was entered into the 1987 International Healey Weekend Concours at Chalcock Park in Warwickshire and literally swept the board, taking all the major prizes included the Best Car of the Show, the Donald Healey Shield, the Alan Ling Trophy and was, of course, placed first in its own class. Since this time it has seen limited use and it is testament to the quality of the restoration that the condition remains concours throughout.
It is sold with a current MoT certificate and the very appropriate registration number AH 1004.