1957 Austin-Healey 100/6 BN4 - 100/6 BN4 3000

With the current owner since 1993

Extensively restored some years ago

With exceptionally rare original hardtop

Mechanical upgrades recorded in the registration documents

When Austin-Healey introduced the 100/6 in 1956, the original Healey 100 was barely three years old. Nevertheless, it was already time for more. Particularly in America, its most important market, six cylinders apparently carried rather more conviction than four.

The four-cylinder therefore made way for a 2.6-litre straight-six from the BMC parts bin. Initially producing 102 hp, it later delivered 117 hp thanks to a revised cylinder head and intake system. At the same time, the wheelbase grew by five centimetres. In the BN4, the extra space was put to use with two small occasional rear seats. Anyone obliged to sit there, however, was well advised to be neither particularly tall nor inclined to bear a grudge.

The Healey evolved visually as well. Its characteristic radiator grille became wider and more oval, while a prominent air scoop appeared on the bonnet. The basic recipe remained unchanged: strong mechanicals, little weight and a body that looked considerably more expensive than the car actually was.

The BN4 was initially built at Longbridge, with production moving to Abingdon in 1957. The two-seater BN6 followed in 1958, before the 3000 arrived in 1959 as the next stage in the Healey’s evolution.

In 1993, the consignor bought this Healey in the USA as a solid basis for restoration. He had the 3-litre engine rebuilt for use with unleaded fuel by a specialist while the car was still in America, with the remaining work subsequently carried out in Germany. Photographs document the immense effort involved. Over the years, the body was completely restored, while the engine, axles and braking system were also overhauled. The front brakes were converted to discs, appropriately enough given the more powerful engine. An oil cooler and overdrive complete the mechanical package.

The gearbox, however, escaped attention and, annoyingly, second gear now crunches. The soft top was renewed and the entire interior retrimmed in leather. Finished in the Giallo Ginestra of an Alfa Spider and sitting on chrome wire wheels, the Healey is certainly not shy about attracting attention. The additional original hardtop, a rarity in its own right, gives it an extra visual kick.

In 1997, the Healey even embarked on a brief film career, appearing alongside Tatort detective Miroslav Nemec in “Herz über Kopf”. The Roadster has seen little use in the consignor’s hands. Too many other cars and a fondness for travelling meant that its mileage increased by only around 4,000 miles.

During a recent inspection ahead of the German roadworthiness test in August 2026, its technical condition earned praise, with only slightly excessive play in the steering mentioned verbally.

All told, this is no car for those who prefer to blend in. This Healey stands out and polarises opinion. Appropriately, its looks and performance complement each other perfectly. Plenty of power and plenty of overtaking presence have found each other here.