Austin-Healey 100-6

A replacement for the Austin-Healey 100, it was followed by the Austin-Healey 3000; together, the three models have become known as the Big Healeys.

Austin-Healey 100-6
Overview
Manufacturer	Austin-Healey (BMC)
Production	1956-1959
Assembly	Abingdon, England Longbridge, England
Powertrain
Engine	2639 cc C-Series I6
Dimensions
Wheelbase	92 in (2,337 mm)
Length	157.5 in (4,000 mm)
Width	60 in (1,524 mm)
Height	50 in (1,270 mm)
Chronology
Predecessor	Austin-Healey 100
Successor	Austin-Healey 3000

The 100-6 featured a 2 in (50.8 mm) longer wheelbase than the 100, a more powerful straight-six engine in place of its slightly larger inline-four, and added two occasional seats (which later became optional). The body lines were slightly streamlined, a smaller, wider radiator grille placed lower, an air scoop was added to the bonnet, and the windscreen fixed.

The 100-6 was produced in two model designators, the 2+2 BN4 from 1956 onwards and the 2-seat BN6 in 1958–9.

The cars used a tuned version of the BMC C-Series engine previously fitted to the Austin Westminster, initially producing 102 bhp (76 kW) and increased in 1957 to 117 bhp (87 kW) by fitting a revised manifold and cylinder head. The previously standard overdrive unit was made optional.

In late 1957 production was transferred from Longbridge to the MG plant at Abingdon. 14,436 100-6s were produced before production ended in 1959.

A 117 bhp (87 kW) BN6 was tested by The Motor magazine in 1959 had a top speed of 103.9 mph (167.2 km/h) and could accelerate from 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in 10.7 seconds. A fuel consumption of 20.8 miles per imperial gallon (13.6 L/100 km; 17.3 mpg_‑US) was recorded. The test car cost £1307 including taxes of £436.

• Ray Bonds (2003). The Illustrated Directory of Sports Cars. Motorbooks. ISBN 0-7603-1420-9.