AUSTIN HEALEY 100/S 1955 Mille Miglia Eligible. One of the 50 original ‘100S’ competition models built. One of 38 examples known to be in existence

AUSTIN HEALEY 100/S

- Mille Miglia Eligible - One of the 50 original ‘100S’ competition models built by the Donald Healey Motor Company. One of 38 examples known to be in existence - One of the rarest and most highly sought after of all Austin-Healey sports cars - Finished in correct and original Old English White over Lobelia Blue - Comprehensive restoration at ‘100 Healeys’, world-renowned Austin-Healey experts - Outstanding condition throughout; exceptional paint finish, body fit, and interior presentation - Eligible for world class historic events and concours d’elegance - There’s a raw, connected feel to the car that modern sports cars can rarely replicate “The prime motive of all our competition motoring was to generate publicity that would increase sales of the production model, the ‘100’… We were under pressure from distributors, particularly in America, to build specially prepared cars to meet demands from customers.” – Geoffrey Healey, The Healey Story. Thus was born the fabled Austin-Healey 100S, S for Sebring, one of the rarest, most celebrated, and most coveted models in the marque’s history. Designed with motorsport in its DNA, the 100S was a direct response to the growing appetite for high-performance sports cars in the postwar era, particularly in the burgeoning American market. The project that would culminate in the 100S began in 1953, when the Donald Healey Motor Company first started modifying the Austin-Healey 100 for serious competition. Among the earliest performance upgrades were Dunlop disc brakes—a revolutionary addition at the time and a first for a British production sports car. These significantly improved braking performance and became one of the model’s standout features. By 1954, the engine was enhanced with a Weslake-designed aluminium cylinder head, featuring a single-port design. This modification reduced weight and also allowed for better airflow and higher performance. The standard three-speed gearbox with overdrive was replaced by a more robust and efficient C-series four-speed manual transmission, offering better gear ratios for racing conditions. In the pursuit of weight reduction and simplicity, the 100S was stripped of all non-essential equipment. In their place were lightweight Perspex windscreens, vertically slotted racing seats, and aluminium body panels riveted to a steel frame. Under the bonnet lay a highly tuned 2,660cc four-cylinder engine. This setup propelled the car to a top speed of approximately 210 km/h (130 mph), placing it firmly in the upper echelon of 1950s sports cars. The 100S’s competition credentials were solidified in March 1954, when a prototype driven by Lance Macklin and George Huntoon achieved an outstanding 3rd overall at the Sebring 12 Hours. This result inspired the naming of the production model: the Austin-Healey 100S, with “S” paying homage to the success at Sebring. The 100S made its official debut at the London Motor Show in October 1954, with customer deliveries beginning in February 1955. Just 50 production examples of the 100S were ever built in 1955 (excluding prototypes and factory test cars), all with right-hand drive and handcrafted in Warwick. Today, the Austin-Healey 100S stands as one of the most desirable and historically significant postwar British sports cars, a symbol of competition success, and limited-production exclusivity. With its unmistakable silhouette, purposeful design, and extraordinary backstory, the 100S remains a crown jewel in any serious collection. ABOUT THIS SPECIFIC EXAMPLE This outstanding Austin-Healey 100S, presented in its correct and evocative Old English White over Lobelia Blue, stands as a superbly documented and exceptionally restored example of one of the most important British sports cars of the postwar era. Originally delivered to the United States in 1955, this car was first owned by a competent American racing driver, who campaigned it in period, taking full advantage of its factory competition specification. After its early years of active use, the car settled on the West Coast and remained in Los Angeles for a number of years as a cherished piece of motoring history. In 1997, the car was sent back to the UK for a full restoration by respected Healey specialist. Known for their deep expertise in Austin-Healey competition models, they carried out a faithful and high-quality restoration, preserving the car’s authenticity and preparing it for continued enjoyment both on the road and in concours circles. In 1999, the 100S was acquired by a passionate Austin-Healey enthusiast who actively participated with the car at numerous Healey shows and historic racing events. In 2005, another dedicated UK collector acquired the car and remained actively involved with the Austin-Healey community, frequently driving it to and taking part in various European events, further reinforcing its reputation as a cherished and carefully maintained example. More recently, the car underwent a meticulous restoration in the Netherlands, widely regarded as among the world’s foremost specialists in the Austin-Healey 100S. The restoration was carried out to an exacting standard, with a focus on both concours correctness and mechanical excellence. The result is a 100S that stands out not only for its beauty but also for its extraordinary quality and originality. CONDITION EXTERIOR The condition of this 100S is simply outstanding. The bodywork is exceptionally straight with superb panel fit, and the paint, a flawless combination of Old English White and Lobelia Blue, the iconic factory 100S scheme, exhibits a deep, lustrous finish. Every detail, from the slotted seat backs to the distinctive low Perspex windscreen, is presented with remarkable accuracy. CONDITION INTERIOR Inside, the cabin of this 100S is a study in purposeful simplicity. The interior has been restored to original specification with exceptional care, retaining the car’s authentic racing character. The lightweight, slotted seats are trimmed in period-correct leather, offering both comfort and support while reflecting the model’s pure competition roots. The dashboard is authentically presented, with original-specification instruments and switchgear, all in excellent working order. Every element reflects the purposeful, competition-focused character of the car while maintaining an exceptionally clean and well-preserved appearance. DRIVING EXPERIENCE Behind the wheel, the driving experience is nothing short of exhilarating. The 2,660cc four-cylinder engine, producing a robust 132 bhp, delivers strong torque and a performance that remains impressive even by modern standards. The aluminium Weslake-head four-cylinder engine provides immediate throttle response, with a deep, mechanical note that speaks to the car’s competition pedigree. The four-speed manual gearbox is direct and rewarding, while the light weight, sharp steering, and disc brakes at all four corners give the driver remarkable control. Importantly, this car is eligible for the Mille Miglia, making it not just a historically significant competition car but also a passport to some of the world’s most prestigious classic driving events. Driving this 100S is a truly unique experience, a rare combination of mechanical purity, performance, and historical significance that offers deep satisfaction to the knowledgeable enthusiast. Whether powering through mountain passes, taking part in historic rallies, or simply enjoying a quiet country road, the 100S delivers an emotional connection that few cars can match. Disclaimer The information provided on this website has been compiled by The Houtkamp Collection with the utmost care. The information contained within this advert is provided ‘as-is’, without warranties as to its accuracy whether expressed or implied and is intended for informational purposes only. The Houtkamp Collection is not liable for any errors or mistakes.