The Austin-Healey 100/4 – along with the Triumph TR2 – were the thinking man’s sports cars of the mid 1950’s. However, whilst the TR at times could seem a bit agricultural, the Healey was pretty, with refined handling and speed that could easily match its competitors. It was, for many young motorists of the day, their first taste of a true British sports car.
With the introduction of the Le Mans Specification Kit in 1955, there was a wealth of modifications available for both performance and handling. From carburettors to hot cams, the factory, dealer or home mechanic could easily make standard 100/4 into a competitive little road car.
Supplied as a Left Hand Drive, North American Export car, chassis BN2-L/232908 was built on 1st June 1956 and shipped directly to Houston, USA. Early history is not known, but its story is picked up when this exceptionally smart BN2 was the subject of a meticulous, back to chassis restoration in America in the early 1990s. The owner, Bob Coffman, attended many Austin-Healey concours events and rallies, with photos proudly showing the resulting silverware. In the late 1990s the Healey came back to Europe, featuring on the front cover of ‘Oldtimer’ magazine. Moving from Germany to Spain in 2010, this lovely 100/4 ‘M’ competed in the prestigious Mille Miglia in 2011.
There are numerous correct ‘M’ parts on the car including the 20 louver steel bonnet, Le Mans 40422 stamped distributer and original cold air box. We’re not sure when these were fitted, but know they were there by the time Coffman restored it, which suggests these parts may well have been fitted in period. Non period upgrades comprise of a Bilstien handling kit and a Jaguar D-Type style head faring (not currently fitted).
Complete with a current FIVA document, Heritage Certificate and recent maintenance bills that total over €6,000, there is also a photo album that catalogues the impressive restoration. This matching numbers Healey was driven from Spain to U.K. in July, the long distances being easily covered with the overdrive engaged. A fabulous 100/4 ‘M’ that is ready for its next continental adventure.
