2020-02-14 12:40:05 | pauls writes:

Car to be at auction 3/20
www.bonhams.com/auctions/25719/lot/163/

Auction desecripton:
Lot 163
1955 Austin Healey 100-4 BN1 Custom Roadster
US$ 60,000 - 80,000
£ 46,000 - 61,000
The Amelia Island Auction
5 Mar 2020, 12:00 EST
To be sold without reserve
Chassis no. BN1L 222089

215ci V8 Engine
Dual Carburetors
Approximately 350bhp at 5,000rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes

*Recipient of a documented 6-year restoration
*Powerful and lite Buick Nailhead 215 C1 Rover V8
*Long term enthusiast ownership
*Ideal candidate for a number of rallies and driving events

The story of this gorgeous, classic English sports car known as the Black Healey began in Texas in 2001 when this neglected, sleeping beauty was rescued and restored over a six-year period by a dedicated Healey enthusiast, entrepreneur, and aerospace engineer. The nut-and-bolt restoration began with a full disassembly of the car. All the aluminum body parts were removed from the steel frame, acid dipped and repainted. The black exterior was given four coats of clear acrylic, presenting a depth of color and reflection to be envied by anyone who is unlucky enough to be placed near the Black Healey on the show field. The car's interior received the same detailed level of attention and was completely restored. The exceptional custom leather interior work features the Austin Healey name stitched in the seatback, replicating the logo of the Healey parts catalog. Restoration photographs documenting the extensive work are included with the sale of the car.

Under the hood, this one-of-a-kind super-modified Healey boasts a powerful Buick Nailhead 215 C1 Rover engine. The engine comprises all new parts including a special cam, heavy duty valve springs and 10.5 to 1 compression ratio pistons. The new engine is well over 100 lbs lighter than the original cast iron 4-cylinder engine from 1955, yet produces more than double the horsepower. The polished stainless firewall augments the ferocious beauty of the engine. Three hundred fifty horsepower, combined with the lightness of the aluminum body, requires a skilled driver to appreciate the superior handling and engineering of this rare car. The four-point racing harness on the black leather bucket seats testify to the awesome power of the engine. The Offenhauser rocker arm covers and a dual Stromberg intake manifold under the Cobra-styled louvered bonnet, combined with the Halibrand-type magnesium wheels, all speak to the racing quality of the vehicle.

This outstanding sports car has been well-maintained by the only owner it has known since its exhaustive restoration. The fantastic Black Healey is not a re-creation, but rather the perfect combination of racing elements, style and beauty that rivals any sports car on the road, track, or show field. This stunning car is worthy of a place in any world-class collection, but would be best suited for some who will drive it and exploit its awesome power and handling characteristics.