1955 Austin-Healey 100/4 BN1 Roadster

The Austin-Healey 100/4 was a case of the right car at the right time - Donald Healey's little company based in Warwick had developed the prototype 100 for the 1952 London Motor Show but were unable to capitalise on the unprecedented reaction. Fortuitously, the boss of Austin, Leonard Lord, spotted the Healey and recognised the opportunity to build an affordable, stylish sports car capable of taking on the Triumph TRs and entered into a deal with Healey to jointly produce and market the 100. The stylish bodywork, designed by Gerry Coker, was made by Jensen Motors of West Bromwich, the chassis by Thompson Pressings and the cars assembled at Longbridge from March 1953 onwards. The 100/4, as it was designated, utilised the Austin Atlantic 2.6-litre four-cylinder engine developing 90bhp at 4,000rpm and plenty of torque, had hydraulic brakes front and rear along with well set-up suspension. With a fold-flat windscreen, minimal creature comforts and plenty of urge, the Austin-Healey was the quintessential British sports car and has retained a loyal following around the world. The original two-seater BN1 remained in production until August 1955 and the vast majority of the 10,688 built were exported to the United States. The earliest 100/4s are well regarded by Healey enthusiasts for having the purity of line and raw sports car driving experience somewhat diluted on the later six-cylinder models.