1956 Austin-Healey 100M BN2 LeMans Roadster

There were 640 factory-built LeMans modified cars built and there are less than 150 examples known to exist today. Two factory-prepared Austin-Healey 100s ran in the 1953 LeMans 24 Hour race, finishing 12th and 14th overall. The cars averaged 90 miles per hour and a top speed of 120 mph on the Mulsanne Straight. In honor of this accomplishment, Donald Healey produced a series of factory-prepared 'LeMans-modified' Austin Heaely 100s.

Modifications to the 100 included a louvered bonnet, leather strap, and an engine with a high-lift cam, larger carburetor, higher compression pistons, free-flowing intake manifold, special distributor, and a cold air box. The result was an engine output of 110 horsepower. The suspension was stiffened with larger anti-roll bars.

This factory-produced Austin-Healey 100M was produced on November 30th of 1955 and shipped to the United States on January 7th of 1956. When it left the factory, it was painted Old English White and trimmed with a red interior.

It is believed that this car was first sold in California where it remained until the current owner purchased it. It was purchased in 2000 by its current owner and in 2005 it was disassembled and treated to a two year restoration. It was rebuilt to 100M specifications with an aluminum head.

In 2008, this vehicle was offered for sale at the 'Sports & Classics in Monterey' presented by RM Auctions where it was estimated to sell for $145,000 - $185,000. It was offered without reserve and sold for $159,500.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2009