1958→1959 Austin-Healey 100-Six BN6

Later in 100-Six production, a BN6 variant of the 100-6 was introduced in March 1958 as a 2-seat roadster. This was more inline with the original 100-4’s concept and it outsold the BN4.

In 1957 a new cast-aluminum 6-port intake manifold was introduced to the model. With larger valves, and a higher compression power was raised from 101 to 117 bhp. It also increased the price from £762 to £817.

Roy Salvadori said “the new 6-port induction system gives her an impressive increase in punch, particularly in top from 50 to 80 mph….the Austin-Healey always had plenty of dig but now its outstanding…”

In Detail

tags	3000, 100/6, six
submitted by	Richard Owen
type	Series Production Car
production years	1958 – 1959
built at	Abington, England
price Â£/td>	Â£817
engine	Series C Straight-6
valvetrain	OHV 2 Valves / Cyl
displacement	2639 cc / 161.04 in³
bore	79.4 mm / 3.125 in
stroke	88.9 mm / 3.5 in
compression	8.7:1
power	87.2 kw / 117 bhp @ 4700 rpm
specific output	44.33 bhp per litre
bhp/weight	106.17 bhp per tonne
torque	192.5 nm / 142 ft lbs @ 2400 rpm
body / frame	Steel Body over Steel Frame
driven wheels	Front Engine / RWD
front tires	5.9-10
rear tires	5.9-10
front brakes	Discs
rear brakes	Drums
curb weight	1102 kg / 2429 lbs
wheelbase	2337 mm / 92.0 in
front track	1328 mm / 52.3 in
rear track	1270 mm / 50.0 in
length	4001 mm / 157.5 in
width	1537 mm / 60.5 in
height	1270 mm / 50.0 in
transmission	4-Speed Manual w/Overdrive
gear ratios	2.93:1, 2.05:1, 1.31:1, 1.00:1
top speed	~185.1 kph / 115.0 mph
0 – 60 mph	~10.7 seconds
0 – 100 mph	~36.0 seconds
0 – 1/4 mile	~17.0 seconds

Auction Sales History

1958 Austin-Healey 100/6 BN6L/3814 –

This BN6 two-seater was imported from Arkansas, USA in 1990 and then converted to right-hand drive. Its first owner in the UK was a Mr Brian O’Connell (see purchase invoice on file). The current vendor purchased the car in 2001 and carried out a full restoration to a very high standard during 2004/2005. This ‘last nut and bolt’ restoration included an engine rebuild (cylinders re-bored, crankshaft re-ground, new pistons, crankshaft and flywheel balanced, pro/race damper fitted, etc); oil cooler fitted; disc brakes serviced; brake servo fitted; gearbox overhauled and overdrive fitted together with a new clutch; new all leather upholstery; new high grade bespoke carpets; bespoke mohair hood and tonneau cover; four new 60-spoke chromed wire wheels; and a stainless steel exhaust.

Auction Source: 2011 Goodwood Revival Sale by Bonhams