148 bhp, 2,912 cc OHV inline six-cylinder engine, four-speed manual transmission with electric overdrive, coil spring independent front suspension, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and hydraulic front disc and rear drum brakes. Wheelbase: 91.7"

• Desirable Big Healey

• Older body-off restoration

• Spirited motoring at its best

Donald Healey’s four-cylinder Healey Hundred was a sensation at the 1952 London Motor Show, impressing Austin’s Leonard Lord, who promptly put it into production as the Austin-Healey. In September 1956, a new, larger Austin-Healey joined the four-cylinder model. On a two-inch longer wheelbase, it had tiny occasional seats for two in the rear and an updated drivetrain. In place of the four was a 2,634 cc OHV six, the British Motor Corporation’s “C” series engine, which, despite its smaller displacement, developed 12 more horsepower. A four-speed gearbox was now included, with overdrive optional. However, it was the three-liter four-seat Deluxe Roadster of 1959-1967 that became the archetypal “Big Healey.” Introduced as the BT7 in the spring of 1959, it was succeeded by a Mk II version in 1961, with three carburetors producing 132 bhp. During 1962, a curved windshield was introduced, along with roll-up windows. Twin H6 carburetors now produced even more power than the triple setup.

The final iteration of the “Big Healey” was the HBJ8, Mk III series, introduced in January 1964. Power was now up to 150 bhp, and power disc brakes and overdrive were standard. This Mk III was delivered new in Pennsylvania. After a period of ownership by another Pennsylvania resident, it was purchased in July 1989 by John Bowles of Ottawa, Ontario. The current owner acquired it from Bowles in April 1991.

The car was given a body-off restoration in 1989-90. It received new inner and outer sills, rear fenders and almost all chrome items. The interior and top were also replaced. Mechanical work included an engine rebuild, with new bearings and rings, a new exhaust system and clutch. The braking system was also rebuilt. Since the restoration, it has had new king pins and lower trunnions, as well as a new fuel pump and brake booster.

Big Healeys are addictive. The low moan of a straight six and spirited motoring just inches off the ground give a rush to drivers of all ages.