classic vintage chrome healey european 2.6 inline 6 4 speed manual convertible b

Description for Austin Healey 100-6 1957

Such an endlessly appealing, well-restored British classic! This 1957 Austin Healey 100-6 is an outstanding, seldom-seen representative of its nameplate that dates all the way back to its manufacturer's early, formative years and its rock-solid, period correct drivetrain means that it's not just a quaint visual novelty, but a great driver as well. This stylish roadster is a member of a select group- a second generation offering by its manufacturer that came to be known as... the Big Healeys, for its increased wheelbase and slightly elongated hood line that paired with a more streamlined form than its predecessors. Its light blue exterior is capable of bringing your blood pressure down with just a quick glance - the paint was applied a while back but likely due to consistent sheltering and proper care, remains in very good form, though a comprehensive detailing would enhance it even further. Both the hood scoop mounted on the front bonnet and the fixed windshield came part and parcel with the debut of the 100-6 model, offering an extra bit of style and a greater degree of confidence during real world driving, respectively. The entire collection of chrome and trim on board is in very strong condition, including the front grille, the bumpers both fore and aft and the headlight bezels. Should the skies darken while you're out on the road enjoying this beauty, you'll have two viable options for protection - both a blue vinyl convertible top and a well fitted and color matched accessory hard top are included. The blue vinyl interior was completely refurbished to factory specs and it really makes an impression when you open the door to climb inside. The low backed front buckets wear nicely fitted covers with white accents and, as this roadster is part of the 2+2 iteration of the model, you'll find additional seating for two in back that's in matching condition. While no one would confuse a Healey with a purpose-oriented transportation vehicle, the rear bench is more than just a novelty and a surprising amount of space is on hand just in front of it. Fresh blue carpet lines the floor and the door panels to each side also look their best. Farther forward, the factory issue steering wheel has been restored to top form, and if you peer through it you'll see an array of original gauges encircled by chrome rings that are surrounded by an ultra-clean dash area that makes this vintage driving environment all the more appealing. Sitting at the center of the super clean compartment is a 2.6 inline 6 that's almost certainly the original engine. It strikes a showroom-worthy appearance with its squeaky-clean block and valve cover and, fed by a pair of factory correct SU carburetors, is really running strong as it pairs with a smooth shifting 4-speed manual transmission that was also likely in place when this roadster rolled out of the plant. This inline 6 replaced a 4 cylinder predecessor and received a bump in power the year this '57 debuted and the transmission is navigated by a clutch with seamless engagement to make driving the car a lot of fun. Take a look below and you'll notice that the undercarriage is solid, and from that vantage point you can see the factory X bracing at this Austin Healey's mid point added to increase structural rigidity. A set of 15" wire wheels adds just the right finishing touch to this very appealing sports car. You don't see many of its counterparts on the road to begin with, let alone any in the ultra-clean condition of this 1957 Austin Healey 100-6, so this specimen presents a rare opportunity. Call today!