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Buying an Austin-Healey 100S

Shortly after the original Austin-Healey 100 debuted, Donald Healed set his sights on offering a competition version of the 100 known as the Austin-Healey 100S. Understanding that a high-performance version of his well-received sports car would boost the image of the production models, a series of test cars experimented with the final design, which would finally appear at the 1955 Sebring 12 Hours. Changes to the standard Austin-Healey 100 included a new alloy cylinder head with larger valves, a high-lift camshaft, nitride-hardened steel crankshaft and forged-steel connecting rods, all of which contributed to the models 132hp. The Austin-Healey 100S was also one of the first cars to offer Dunlop disc brakes. Additional options included a 20-gallon fuel tank, a stronger chassis and Lucas Le Mans 24 Hour headlights. Visually, a smaller front grille, external fuel filler, a louvered hood, and a Perspex front window can distinguish the 100S. Approximately 50 production models were manufactured, of which all were in right-hand drive and equipped with lightweight seats that had cooling slots, a wood-rimmed steering wheel and a 140mph speedometer. An additional five examples were used as the special test cars that served as prototypes for the production run.

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Austin-Healey 100S Buyers Guide

Because of their rarity, finding an Austin-Healey 100S is best accomplished with the help of a classic car professional like those at The Beverly Hills Car Club. Backed by years of experience in the classic car industry, their team of professionals has the knowledge, resources and industry connections needed to find the 100S you desire. Until recently, except among Austin-Healey enthusiasts, the 100S has not been widely known. Nevertheless, the Austin-Healey 100S models stunning beauty, great handling and ease of maintenance has given the car a loyal following. In fact, of the 55 units produced, it is estimated that at least 41 still remain on the road. If youre thinking about buying an Austin-Healey 100S, it is imperative that you ensure you are looking at an original example. With growing demand, there are a lot of 100S replicas using Healey 100 donor chassis. Always be sure to check engine and chassis numbers against Healey records. On these particular examples, the chassis number will be stamped on a printed plate screwed to the firewall in the engine compartment. The prefix AHS designates production cars, while SPL designates development cars. The Beverly Hills Car Club team can assist you with this important step.

For more Buyers Tips for the Austin-Healey 100S, be sure to connect with their team today. In the meantime, be sure to browse their online inventory to view the Austin-Healey classics currently available to you. They look forward to hearing from you and to helping you find the perfect Austin-Healey for your collection.