Just as attractive as it was lithe and nimble, the Austin-Healey 100 quickly generated legions of fans shortly after its release in both its native England and abroad. The car proved to be both an excellent road car and a competent racer. While the 100-4 was certainly no slouch, the model to have was the 100 M ‘Le Mans,’ which added upgraded carburetors, a low-restriction intake manifold, and a modified distributor, helping to extract an additional 20 bhp from its 2.6-liter four-cylinder engine. Visually, these cars were differentiated by a louvred hood, silver-painted wire wheels, and a cut-down windshield that could be folded flat, amongst other details.

According to the accompanying British Motor Industry Heritage Trust certificate, this lovely Austin-Healey 100-4 BN2 was a North American Export model produced in LHD and built on 10 April 1956, equipped with a heater and laminated windscreen. Delivered new to the U.S., the original owner is not known, but by 1973, it was noted as being owned by David White of Alameda, California.

The car was acquired by the most recent previous owner in 1991, who fitted a 100 M-style bonnet and shipped it to Absolutely British of Santa Maria, California, to be converted to Le Mans specification. Refinished in the quintessential 100 M color scheme of two-tone red over black, the interior was retrimmed in its original color of red leather. Immediately following the completion of the restoration, the car was shown on three occasions, winning awards at each show. At California Healey Week in 2004, it came away with Best of Show honors. Two years later, it was shown at California Healey Week yet again as well as the 17th Annual British Car Show, where it was presented with 1st in class at both events.

Purchased by its current owner in 2012, the restoration presents well overall and would surely be a lovely example to drive and enjoy.