1959 Austin-Healey 100/6 BN2 Roadster
Registration no. ASL 162
Chassis no. BN6-L/4390
Engine no. 26D-RU-H/75734

'After a really gruelling road test, I can say that this new sports model is ideal for Continental touring. It also stood up to lap after lap of the Nürburgring at racing speeds, without complaint, and that must be equivalent to a vast mileage under more humane conditions. Finally, it has the kind of appearance that will make many prospective purchasers reach for their cheque books.' – John Bolster on the Austin-Healey 100/6, Autosport, 12th October 1956.

Introduced for 1956, the 100/6 represented the most radical step forward in the Big Healey's development. Despite its initial success, sales of the original Austin-Healey 100 had begun to decline by the mid-1950s and so the model was revamped as the '100/6', BMC's 2.6-litre C-series six replacing the original four-cylinder Austin Atlantic engine. At the same time the wheelbase was lengthened from 7' 6" to 7' 8", which enabled the inclusion of two occasional seats in the rear of the BN4 variant. In 100-6 tune the pushrod six produced 102bhp - 12bhp more than its predecessor - though the inevitable weight gain meant that there was little if any improvement in performance, the car's top speed remaining at 103mph or thereabouts. Although stylistically very similar to the preceding 100, the 100/6 was nevertheless easily distinguishable by its 'crinkle' radiator grille and bonnet-top air intake. In 1957 an improved six-port engine became available, and this 117bhp unit was fitted to all the newly introduced BN6 two-seater roadsters. Top speed improved to 111mph and 1.7 seconds was cut from the 0-60mph time.

Originally a left-hand drive model, this BN6 two-seater roadster was first registered in the UK in 1999. The car benefits from past restoration, believed carried out circa 20 years ago, as well as a more recent (circa 2003) engine rebuild. Purchased by the current vendor in 2003, 'ASL 162' has seen little use apart from annual trips to the MoT testing station, as evidenced by the expired certificates on file. Well stored and wanting for nothing, the car is described as in generally excellent condition and is offered with the aforementioned MoTs, sundry bills for annual servicing, current MoT/tax and V5C registration document.