1954 Austin Healey 100-4 BN1 Roadster

Description

Up for auction we have a stunning 1954 Austin Healey 100-4 BN1 Roadster. A meticulously maintained California car that is currently registered and titled. Owned by the same family since 1958. This is a rare survivor that has not undergone an off-frame restoration simply because it’s been so well kept and out of any undesirable conditions as it is a California Car; rust is not an issue. This BN1 is a numbers matching Austin Healey apart from the transmission. This car still sits on its original frame that it came with from the Austin Factory in Longbridge, Birmingham England and it still has its original VIN plate mounted on the drivers’ side that it came with from factory as well.

The exterior is a very attractive Carmine Red. This is the original color to the car which has undergone a very nice and expensive paint job in 2007. The body is original and in great condition. The fit and gap is excellent all around and everything opens and closes the way it is meant to. The folding windshield is intact and functional. The glass is clear without any cracks or scratches whatsoever. All the exterior trim is in good condition with plenty of shine to it. The front and rear bumpers along with the over riders were recently re chromed and look great. The grille is original and complete. The folding convertible top is a new Stayfast black cloth top. This Healey sits upon 4 wire wheels with new chrome knock offs and newer Vredestein tires.

The interior is neat and tidy with black leather bucket seats that have red piping that really suits this BN1. The metal dash is excellent and complete with all the original Smiths gauges and the factory AM/FM radio. The transmission tunnel is newly reupholstered with black carpeting underneath a plush leather cover with red piping that sits over the driveshaft tunnel. The black rubber floor mats that sit beneath the drivers and passengers’ seats are “Austin” crested. All rubber seals and felt door seals are in great shape. The trunk space is organized and complete with spare wire wheel and tire also this sale includes an original tool roll, tonneau cover, and original side screens.

The engine is original to the car and was rebuilt in 2013, and sparingly driven since. The transmission has been upgraded to the more desirable BN2 4 speed manual transmission with overdrive. It has also been changed over to negative ground. It has dual SU carburetors and the correct SU fuel pump. It has also been equipped with two electric fans that sit securely in front of the radiator. This Austin Healey has also had a battery cutoff switch installed which is great not only for the health of the battery as there can be small draws of current even when the car is off that will eventually drain it, but also useful for anti-theft reasons. The engine compartment certainly isn’t concourse status, but it is complete and most importantly mechanically sound. After all these cars are meant to be driven and enjoyed.

From cold this BN1 starts right up with a pull of the choke and as it warms up and the choke is let in it settles into a nice low idle. The purr of the engine and the throaty sound of the exhaust is one that only an Austin Healey can provide and this Healey certainly does not disappoint. The steering is tight and responsive and the drive is excellent. The clutch functions properly but it has a bit of a shutter to it when pressed all the way down which indicates that it may need a new release bearing. The gearbox is lovely and shifting through gears is easy as it should be without any unwanted vibrations or grinding through gears. The overdrive works properly and drops in and out as it should at the flip of the switch. The brake pedal feels good and consistent and upon braking the car does not pull in either direction. Electrically this car is very functional. The headlights (both high and low beam), side lights, indicators, and brake lights all work as they should. The push horn is also working.

Overall this 1954 Austin Healey is an absolute gem and it is very evident that no expense has been sparred on this Healey. Truly it is no wonder why these cars are so sought after as they are not only beautiful to look at but even better to drive. This would be an excellent addition to any collection or just as a daily driver to enjoy taking for a spin around the town or down the coast. This BN1 delivers smiles for miles and there’s no shortage of thumbs ups and friendly honks from people in their very ordinary cars. Bid to win this stunning example of what cars used to be before these days where they practically just drive themselves. As always, I would advise inspecting the car in person if at all possible. Please also note that we reserve the right to end this auction early should we receive an offer we can't refuse. Please call for an appointment or with any questions you may have, (310)833-1525 Monday-Friday 7am to 5pm Pacific time. Thanks for looking and happy bidding!