Description
Austin Healey 100/4 BN2 | 1955
Highlights:
– Matching numbers example with original engine and chassis
– Restored and finished in Old English White
– Upgraded to aftermarket Le Mans specifications
– Documented US-to-NL history with Heritage Certificate
The seller offers for sale a 1955 Austin Healey 100/4 BN2, originally manufactured on December 8, 1955, and exported to the United States. This example features a 2.66-litre 4-cylinder engine mated to a 4-speed manual gearbox with overdrive. A rare BN2 model, it has been restored and complemented by thoughtful upgrades that echo the performance-oriented Le Mans spec cars of the period. Modifications include an uprated camshaft, larger SU carburettors, a cold-air box, and a sportier exhaust system—while still respecting the car’s original identity.
The car retains its matching numbers status, with the engine and chassis confirmed as original. Restoration photos and parts invoices support the rebuild’s quality and scope. It is now registered in the Netherlands, with Dutch plates issued following RDW approval in 2024. The car is ready to drive, it brakes and shifts properly.
This vehicle’s exterior was stripped and refinished during the restoration. The Old English White paintwork is fresh and consistent, with no immediate signs of bodywork needed. According to the seller, the chassis was professionally treated during the rebuild.
Inside, the cabin has been reupholstered in its original red colour. The dashboard and instruments reflect the period-correct layout. The tonneau cover has a small tear near the driver’s seat, but otherwise, the interior appears clean and well-presented. The seats, door cards, and carpets show minimal wear.
Technically, the car is described as good. Lighting functions—including indicators and brake lights—are said to be in working order. The car has a valid Dutch inspection.
The Austin Healey 100 series was introduced in 1953 as a collaboration between Donald Healey and the British Motor Corporation (BMC), marking the beginning of the “Big Healey” era. Designed to be a relatively affordable sports car, the 100/4 used a 2.6-litre inline-four derived from an Austin A90 engine, producing around 90 horsepower in standard form. The BN2 version introduced in 1955 brought with it a 4-speed gearbox with overdrive, improved braking, and various refinements that made it more usable on longer journeys.
A unique chapter in Austin Healey history involves the 100M “Le Mans” variant—a factory-built performance upgrade with higher compression pistons, a special camshaft, and other engine improvements, plus an aerodynamic louvered bonnet and leather bonnet strap. While this BN2 is not a factory 100M, it pays homage to that tradition with tasteful performance upgrades that offer similar characteristics.
Only about 4,604 BN2s were built, and even fewer were later upgraded to 100M or Le Mans spec. Today, these cars represent a purist’s ideal of British open-top motoring: raw, responsive, and stylish. This particular example bridges the gap between originality and spirited performance, making it suitable for road use or classic rallies.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
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We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in South Holland province, Netherlands.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Dutch registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
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