Austin-Healey 100-4 (1953-1956)

 

The Austin-Healey 100-4 was the first model in the iconic Austin-Healey 100 series of sports cars, produced between 1953 and 1956. It played a crucial role in establishing the Austin-Healey brand as a prominent player in the post-war sports car market. Here is a brief overview of every Austin-Healey 100-4 model ever made:

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Austin-Healey 100 (BN1) – 1953–1955

  • Introduction: The Austin-Healey 100 was introduced in 1953 and was the first model to wear the "100" designation, indicating its top speed of 100 mph. The BN1 was the initial version of the 100-4.
  • Engine: Powered by a 2.4L (2147cc) inline-four engine, producing 90 hp, the BN1 provided a good balance of performance and handling for its time.
  • Performance: The 100-4 could reach a top speed of 100 mph, with a 0 to 60 mph time of approximately 11 seconds, making it a strong performer in its class.
  • Transmission: The BN1 came equipped with a 4-speed manual transmission, with the transmission offering a smooth driving experience that was relatively advanced for the period.
  • Body Style: The 100-4 BN1 was available in a two-seater roadster configuration, with a removable soft top and an optional hardtop.
  • Design: The BN1 was designed by Donald Healey with a focus on performance and sporty looks. Its classic design featured a long hood, simple lines, and a relatively small profile for a car of its performance.
  • Legacy: The BN1 model is considered the foundation of the Austin-Healey 100 series. It set the tone for later models with its sporty yet approachable nature and was initially marketed for both the casual driver and performance enthusiasts.

Austin-Healey 100 (BN2) – 1955–1956

  • Introduction: The Austin-Healey 100 BN2 was introduced in 1955 as an update to the BN1. The BN2 brought several improvements, particularly in terms of performance and drivability.
  • Engine: The BN2 retained the same 2.4L inline-four engine but with a higher compression ratio and minor tweaks to improve its overall performance. It produced 110 hp, providing a slight increase in output over the BN1.
  • Performance: With the increase in horsepower, the BN2 was capable of a top speed of around 105 mph, and its acceleration was improved, further solidifying its performance credentials.
  • Transmission: The BN2 was the first Austin-Healey 100 model to feature a 4-speed manual transmission as standard, which helped improve its drivability, especially at higher speeds.
  • Body Style: Like the BN1, the BN2 was available in the same two-seater roadster configuration. The BN2 also had a soft top and could be equipped with an optional hardtop.
  • Design Changes: The BN2 retained much of the same design as the earlier BN1, but the updated gearbox and refinements in engine performance made it a more refined driving experience.
  • Legacy: The BN2 is considered a subtle but significant update over the BN1, offering better performance, reliability, and handling. While production was short-lived, it helped establish the Austin-Healey 100-4 as a more capable and competitive vehicle in the sports car market.

Key Differences Between BN1 and BN2:

  • Engine Output: The BN2 saw an increase in power output to 110 hp (from the 90 hp of the BN1), mainly due to a higher compression ratio.
  • Transmission: The BN2 introduced the 4-speed manual transmission as standard, compared to the 3-speed found in the BN1.
  • Performance: The BN2 offered better acceleration and a slightly higher top speed (105 mph vs. 100 mph for the BN1).
  • Refinements: The BN2 had refined handling and ride quality, with changes aimed at making the car more user-friendly and enjoyable for everyday driving.

Summary of Austin-Healey 100-4 Models:

  • BN1 (1953–1955): The first Austin-Healey 100-4 model, powered by a 2.4L inline-four engine with 90 hp, featuring a 3-speed manual transmission and a top speed of 100 mph. It established the model's sporty character.
  • BN2 (1955–1956): The upgraded version with a 2.4L inline-four engine producing 110 hp and a 4-speed manual transmission. It featured enhanced performance and refinement over the BN1, becoming a more well-rounded sports car.

Legacy:

The Austin-Healey 100-4 is remembered as a classic British roadster that helped shape the British sports car movement of the 1950s. Its combination of performance, styling, and affordable pricing made it a popular choice among enthusiasts, and it laid the foundation for future Austin-Healey models, particularly the Austin-Healey 100-6 and the Austin-Healey 3000. The 100-4's elegant design and performance characteristics continue to make it a beloved car among classic car enthusiasts and collectors today.