Austin Healey

Austin-Healey, a revered name in British automotive history, was born out of a collaboration between the Austin division of the British Motor Corporation (BMC) and the Donald Healey Motor Company. The brand was established in 1952 when Leonard Lord, then managing director of Austin, and Donald Healey, a renowned automotive engineer and race car driver, joined forces to create a range of stylish and high-performance sports cars. 

The partnership’s first creation was the Austin-Healey 100, introduced at the 1952 London Motor Show. The “100” in its name referred to its ability to reach 100 mph, a remarkable feat for the time. The car’s sleek design, robust four-cylinder engine, and impressive performance quickly captured the attention of enthusiasts. The Austin-Healey 100 series, including the BN1 and BN2 models, became a success in both the consumer market and in motorsport, competing in prestigious events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Mille Miglia. 

In 1956, the introduction of the Austin-Healey 100-6 marked the beginning of a new era for the brand. The 100-6 featured a longer wheelbase, a new six-cylinder engine, and a revised body design, offering improved performance and comfort. This model continued to build on the brand’s reputation for producing reliable and exhilarating sports cars. 

The most iconic Austin-Healey model, the 3000, was launched in 1959. Known affectionately as the “Big Healey,” the 3000 came with a powerful 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, delivering enhanced performance and speed. The Austin-Healey 3000 was available in various versions, including the Mk I, Mk II, and Mk III, each offering incremental improvements and refinements. The 3000 became a dominant force in international rallying, achieving numerous victories and podium finishes in events like the Rally Monte Carlo and the Alpine Rally.