1956 | Austin-Healey 100/4M (BN2)

The Gentleman’s Speedster – 1956 Austin Healey 100

When Donald Healey presented the Austin Healey 100 (“100” from its top speed of over 100 miles per hour = 160 km/h) at the Earls Court Motor Show in 1952, the sleek and compact roadster was the star of the event. This car combines all the ingredients that made England’s sports cars great at the time: a long bonnet with a curved beltline that leads to a low door, a robust chassis and a large-volume engine with plenty of torque. It also has a low centre of gravity – ideal for use as a weekend racer.

The car gained immediate popularity and sold very well, especially in the USA. The 1950s were a heyday for the English roadster and there was a vehicle for almost every budget. Sports cars are basically nothing more than civilised racing cars: too noisy, too narrow and too hot, they primarily serve the pleasure of driving and acceleration. In this sensual car, both driver and passenger are one with the elements.

Many films also contribute to the popularity of the coupé. Alfred Hitchcock’s TO CATCH A THIEF (1955) captures the essence of an exciting lifestyle: the Côte d'Azur, the beach and Grace Kelly in a light-blue Sunbeam Alpine sports car. A similar vision is shown a year later in AND GOD CREATED WOMAN with Brigitte Bardot and a Lancia Aurelia Spider.

Our auction vehicle comes from the last series of 1956, a year when exactly 2,910 BN2s were produced. It is said that in 1956 over 75% of cars manufactured in England were exported for overseas markets. Our BN2 was first delivered to Düsseldorf, so it is a rare European version. Just a few months later, the car was sold to a Swiss buyer and registered in the canton of Basel-Landschaft.

More precise information about the exact whereabouts of the 100 BN2 was not available until 2002. During this time, it changed hands three times, and extensive overhaul and maintenance work was carried out on the engine, gearbox, carburettor and ignition. All receipts are available from 2002 onwards. The Healey also holds the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate. It last underwent a vehicle inspection (MFK) in June 2021. A very beautiful, rare Austin Healey 100 BN2.