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1956 Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2: A British Sports Car Icon

9 min read

1956 Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2: A British Sports Car Icon

The 1956 Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2, a quintessential British sports car, embodies the spirit of post-war automotive innovation and performance. Born from the collaboration between the Austin Motor Company and Donald Healey Motor Company, the BN2 represented a significant evolution of the iconic 100-4 model, and cemented its place in automotive history.

The BN2, with its sleek lines and powerful engine, became a symbol of the burgeoning British sports car industry, capturing the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide. Its performance on the racetrack and its ability to deliver a thrilling driving experience on open roads made it a legend.

Introduction: 1956 Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2

Healey austin bn2 1956 mans le classicargarage

The 1956 Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2, commonly known as the “100-4,” was a pivotal model in the Austin-Healey lineage, marking a significant evolution in both performance and styling. This model solidified the Austin-Healey’s position as a formidable sports car, captivating enthusiasts with its blend of British engineering and American muscle.

The 100-4’s arrival in 1956 coincided with a surge in British sports car production, making it a prominent player in a dynamic and competitive landscape.

Historical Significance

The 100-4 BN2 represented a crucial step in the Austin-Healey’s development. It followed the initial 100M model, introduced in 1953, and brought with it a number of refinements. These included a larger engine, improved brakes, and a revised suspension.

The 100-4’s design incorporated a more aerodynamic body, enhancing its performance on the track and on the open road. This model became a favorite among both amateur and professional drivers, achieving success in various motorsports events.

Place in British Sports Car Development

The 1950s witnessed a golden age for British sports car development, with manufacturers like Austin-Healey, MG, and Triumph vying for dominance. The 100-4, with its blend of performance and style, was a key player in this era. It showcased the British ability to create nimble, exciting, and affordable sports cars that appealed to a global audience.

The 100-4’s success contributed to the growing popularity of British sports cars, which went on to influence automotive design and performance standards worldwide.

Design and Engineering

Healey bn2

The 1956 Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2, a refined iteration of its predecessor, the BN1, built upon the foundation of a robust chassis, a sophisticated suspension system, and a distinctive bodywork. This evolution reflected the growing demand for performance and refinement in the sports car market.

Chassis and Suspension

The BN2’s chassis, a robust ladder frame construction, was designed for strength and rigidity. The front suspension utilized independent coil springs and wishbones, providing a comfortable ride and precise handling. At the rear, a live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs offered a balance between ride comfort and sporty performance.

The 1956 Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2 was a significant evolution of the original 100 model, incorporating a number of refinements and improvements. Notably, the BN2 featured a more powerful engine and a revised suspension system, offering a more refined driving experience.

While the BN2 maintained the iconic design of its predecessor, the 1954 Austin-Healey 100 BN1 , it offered a more polished and sophisticated performance. This combination of classic styling and enhanced performance made the BN2 a highly sought-after sports car, cementing its place in automotive history.

This combination of suspension components ensured a well-balanced and predictable handling experience, particularly on winding roads.

Bodywork

The BN2’s bodywork, crafted by Donald Healey, showcased a blend of classic sports car styling and aerodynamic efficiency. The sleek, flowing lines, complemented by a low-slung profile, contributed to a low drag coefficient, enhancing the car’s performance at higher speeds.

The distinctive grille, inspired by the earlier Austin-Healey 100, was now more integrated with the front bumper, creating a more cohesive visual aesthetic.

Engine and Performance

The BN2 was powered by a 2.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine, a development of the unit found in the BN1. This engine featured a higher compression ratio, larger valves, and a revised intake manifold, resulting in increased power output. The engine produced approximately 100 horsepower, a significant improvement over the BN1’s 90 horsepower.

The 1956 Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2, with its powerful inline-six engine and sleek roadster design, captured the spirit of the era. While it shared a lineage with the iconic 1959 Austin-Healey Bugeye , the BN2’s more traditional styling and focus on performance set it apart.

The BN2 remains a sought-after classic, embodying the elegance and thrill of British sports cars from the mid-20th century.

This power, coupled with the car’s lightweight construction, translated to impressive performance. The BN2 could reach a top speed of around 105 miles per hour, making it a formidable competitor in its class.

Comparison with the BN1

The BN2 represented a significant evolution over the BN1. The BN2’s engine was more powerful, offering improved acceleration and top speed. The suspension was refined, resulting in a more comfortable and controlled ride. The bodywork, though largely similar in design, incorporated subtle refinements that enhanced its aerodynamics and visual appeal.

Production and Evolution

Healey bn2 lauderdale mans rm classiccarsbay

The Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2, despite its short production run, was a significant model in the evolution of the Austin-Healey line. It represented a key step in the refinement and development of the iconic sports car, introducing several key changes that would influence future iterations.

Production Timeline and Updates

The production timeline of the Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2 spanned a relatively short period from 1956 to 1958. During this time, several notable changes and updates were implemented, reflecting the continuous development efforts of the manufacturer.

  • 1956:The BN2 was introduced with a number of improvements over the previous BN1 model, including a more powerful engine, revised suspension, and a new grille design. The 100-4 was now equipped with a 2.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 110 horsepower, offering a significant performance boost over the previous 100-4.

    The 1956 Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2, a British sports car icon, boasted a 2.6-liter four-cylinder engine, while its successor, the 1957 Austin-Healey 100-6 , introduced a larger 2.9-liter six-cylinder engine, giving it a significant power boost. The 100-4 BN2, however, remains a cherished classic, particularly among enthusiasts seeking a more authentic and less-powerful driving experience.

    The suspension was also revised, featuring a more robust rear axle and revised spring rates, contributing to improved handling and ride quality. The iconic grille design, now featuring a single horizontal slat with a distinctive “A” emblem, further enhanced the car’s visual appeal.

  • 1957:A significant change in the production year was the introduction of the 100-6, a six-cylinder version of the 100-4. This marked a turning point in the model’s evolution, showcasing a more powerful and refined engine option. The 100-6, equipped with a 2.6-liter six-cylinder engine, delivered 120 horsepower, further solidifying the Austin-Healey’s position as a performance-oriented sports car.

  • 1958:The final year of production for the BN2 saw the introduction of the 100M, a high-performance version of the 100-4. The 100M featured a tuned engine with higher compression and a larger carburetor, resulting in a power output of 132 horsepower.

    This model was also equipped with a number of other performance enhancements, including a limited-slip differential and a special high-performance camshaft.

Evolution of the Model

The Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2 represented a crucial step in the evolution of the Austin-Healey line. Its introduction marked a significant shift towards greater performance and refinement, setting the stage for the subsequent iterations of the model.

  • 100-6:The introduction of the six-cylinder engine in 1957, while still retaining the “100” moniker, marked a significant departure from the original 100-4. The 100-6, with its increased power and smoother engine operation, appealed to those seeking a more refined and powerful driving experience.

  • 100M:The 100M, introduced in 1958, further pushed the boundaries of performance, catering to those who demanded the ultimate driving experience. This high-performance variant, with its tuned engine and other performance enhancements, established a clear precedent for future high-performance Austin-Healey models.

  • 100/4:The production of the 100-4 BN2 was discontinued in 1958, making way for the next generation of Austin-Healey models. However, the legacy of the BN2 lived on, with its design and engineering innovations influencing the development of subsequent models, including the iconic Austin-Healey 3000.

Performance and Handling

Austin healey 1956 bn2 mans le

The Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2 was a thrilling machine, renowned for its spirited performance and engaging handling. Its combination of a potent engine and a well-balanced chassis delivered a driving experience that captivated enthusiasts of the era.

Driving Experience, 1956 Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2

The 100-4 BN2’s driving experience was characterized by its responsive engine and precise handling. The 94.8-horsepower engine, though not overly powerful by today’s standards, provided ample acceleration and a satisfying exhaust note. The four-speed manual gearbox, with its close-ratio gearing, allowed drivers to exploit the engine’s power band effectively.

The car’s lightweight construction, with a curb weight of around 1,900 pounds, contributed to its agility and responsiveness.

Handling Characteristics

The Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2’s handling was praised for its balance and predictability. Its independent front suspension and live rear axle, combined with a relatively low center of gravity, provided a comfortable ride while maintaining excellent handling characteristics. The car’s steering was precise and responsive, allowing drivers to place the car with confidence.

Its well-balanced chassis, coupled with its responsive steering, enabled drivers to enjoy a rewarding driving experience.

Performance Capabilities

The 100-4 BN2’s performance was impressive for its time. With a top speed of around 100 mph, it could keep pace with contemporary sports cars like the Jaguar XK120 and the MG TD. Its acceleration was also respectable, reaching 60 mph in around 12 seconds.

The car’s performance was further enhanced by its lightweight construction, which minimized its inertia and allowed it to change direction quickly.

Comparison to Contemporary Sports Cars

The 100-4 BN2 was a strong contender in the competitive sports car market of the mid-1950s. Compared to its rivals, the Jaguar XK120 and the MG TD, the Austin-Healey offered a more affordable price point while delivering comparable performance. The Jaguar XK120, though more powerful, was also more expensive.

The MG TD, while more affordable, offered a less refined driving experience. The Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2 struck a balance between performance, affordability, and driving enjoyment, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.

Restoration and Preservation

1956 Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2

Restoring a 1956 Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2 is a labor of love, requiring a blend of technical expertise, meticulous attention to detail, and a deep appreciation for the car’s heritage. The process can be challenging, but the reward of bringing a classic car back to its former glory is immense.

Restoring a 1956 Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2

Restoring a 1956 Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2 involves a comprehensive approach, encompassing the body, chassis, engine, and interior.

Body Restoration

The body is the most visible aspect of the car and often requires the most extensive work.

  • Corrosion:The BN2’s bodywork is susceptible to corrosion, particularly in areas like the floor pans, sills, and wheel arches. This requires thorough inspection and repair, often involving welding and replacement panels.
  • Paint:The original paint often needs to be stripped and repainted. This process involves careful preparation, including sanding, priming, and applying multiple layers of paint to achieve a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish.
  • Chrome:The BN2’s chrome trim, including bumpers, window frames, and grille, can be re-chromed or replaced with high-quality reproductions. Re-chroming involves stripping the existing chrome, re-plating the metal, and polishing the surface to a mirror finish.

Chassis Restoration

The chassis is the backbone of the car and needs to be in excellent condition to ensure structural integrity.

  • Corrosion:The chassis can also suffer from corrosion, particularly in areas exposed to road salt or moisture. This requires careful inspection and repair, which may involve welding, replacement parts, and protective coatings.
  • Suspension:The suspension components, including springs, shock absorbers, and control arms, may need to be replaced or refurbished. This ensures proper handling and ride quality.
  • Brakes:The braking system, including the calipers, rotors, and brake lines, should be thoroughly inspected and serviced. This is crucial for safety and performance.

Engine Restoration

The engine is the heart of the car and requires careful attention to ensure smooth and reliable operation.

  • Rebuilding:The engine may need to be completely rebuilt, involving disassembling the engine, inspecting and replacing worn components, and reassembling the engine with new gaskets and seals.
  • Tuning:After rebuilding, the engine needs to be carefully tuned to ensure proper performance and fuel efficiency. This involves adjusting the carburetor, ignition timing, and valve clearances.
  • Cooling System:The cooling system, including the radiator, hoses, and water pump, should be thoroughly inspected and serviced. This ensures proper engine temperature regulation.

Interior Restoration

The interior of the BN2 can be restored to its original glory with careful attention to detail.

  • Upholstery:The original leather upholstery may need to be replaced or reupholstered. This involves selecting high-quality leather, patterns, and stitching to match the original design.
  • Carpet:The carpets can be replaced with new ones or restored by cleaning and repairing any damage. This helps to maintain the car’s interior ambiance.
  • Dash:The dashboard may need to be restored or replaced with a reproduction. This involves refinishing the wood, restoring the gauges, and replacing any missing or damaged components.

Collecting and Ownership

1956 healey bn2 mans austin le ice blue

The Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2 has become a highly sought-after classic car, capturing the hearts of enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. Its timeless design, exhilarating performance, and historical significance have contributed to its enduring popularity. Understanding the factors that influence its value and the experience of owning and maintaining this iconic vehicle is essential for anyone considering joining the ranks of Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2 collectors.

Market Value and Desirability

The market value of a 1956 Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2 is influenced by a combination of factors, including condition, originality, and provenance. A well-restored and documented example can command a significant premium, while cars in need of restoration or with questionable history may fetch lower prices.

  • Condition: A car in excellent condition, with original paint, interior, and mechanics, will naturally command a higher price than a car in need of restoration.
  • Originality: Cars with original components and documentation are highly sought after by collectors.
  • Provenance: The history of a car, including its previous owners and any notable events it has participated in, can significantly impact its value.

Factors Influencing Collectible Value

Several key factors influence the collectible value of a 1956 Austin-Healey 100-4 BN

2. These factors include

  • Rarity: The 100-4 BN2 was produced for only two years, making it a relatively rare car, especially in good condition.
  • Historical Significance: The Austin-Healey 100-4 was a groundbreaking sports car, winning numerous races and establishing itself as a legend in its time.
  • Design and Engineering: The 100-4’s innovative design and engineering, including its lightweight chassis and powerful engine, continue to impress enthusiasts today.
  • Popularity: The Austin-Healey 100-4 has maintained a strong following among collectors and enthusiasts, ensuring its continued desirability and value.

Ownership Experience

Owning a 1956 Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2 is a rewarding experience, offering a unique blend of classic car ownership and driving pleasure. However, it is important to understand the responsibilities and challenges associated with maintaining such a vehicle.

  • Maintenance: These cars require regular maintenance, including engine tune-ups, oil changes, and brake inspections. Finding qualified mechanics specializing in classic cars is essential.
  • Parts Availability: While many parts are still available, sourcing specific components can sometimes be challenging and expensive.
  • Driving Experience: The 100-4’s nimble handling, powerful engine, and open-top design offer a thrilling driving experience, but it is essential to drive responsibly and be aware of its limitations.
  • Community: Joining an Austin-Healey club or online forum can provide access to a network of knowledgeable enthusiasts, parts suppliers, and mechanics.

Last Point

Healey austin 100 bn2 1956 rm sotheby auctions

The 1956 Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2 remains a cherished classic, a testament to British engineering prowess and the enduring appeal of classic sports cars. Its influence on subsequent sports car designs is undeniable, and its legacy continues to inspire enthusiasts today.

Whether admired in a museum or on the open road, the BN2 stands as a symbol of an era when driving was an adventure.