Austin Healey 100-6 BN6 Roadster 1959

History and background

The Austin Healey 100-6 BN6 Roadster is part of the second generation within the so-called "Big Healeys," a series of sports cars that helped define Austin-Healey's image in the 1950s. Following the original Austin-Healey 100, which was succeeded by the 100-6 in 1956, the model received a six-cylinder engine and a modified body design. In doing so, the Austin Healey 100-6 BN6 Roadster targeted a market that at that time increasingly valued performance, open driving and a relatively simple technical set-up.

The BN6 is the two-seat variant of the 100-6 and appeared at a stage of production that is now of interest to collectors because of its limited production and clear positioning within the development of the type. The Austin Healey 100-6 was later followed by the 3000 series, further developing the line. Within model history, the Austin Healey 100-6 BN6 Roadster therefore occupies a place as a transitional model between the earlier four-cylinder 100 and the later, more mature six-in-line variants.

The 1959 model year falls in the final phase of 100-6 production. At that time, the Austin Healey 100-6 BN6 Roadster was already recognizable as a traditional British roadster with long hood, compact passenger space and emphasis on a direct driving experience. Precisely this combination made the model suitable for both the domestic market and export, particularly to markets where British sports cars became established.

Characteristics and special features


The Austin Healey 100-6 BN6 Roadster is technically distinguished by the use of an inline six-cylinder engine and by the two-seat design of the BN6 bodywork. Compared to the original Austin Healey 100, the 100-6 is recognizable by its modified roofline and longer bodywork, which were necessary to accommodate the engine and custom layout. This version came as an open roadster, in keeping with the sports car layout that was characteristic of the model.

For the Austin Healey 100-6 BN6 Roadster, the emphasis was on a mechanical and visual simplicity that characterized many of its contemporaries as well, but the combination of a six-in-line and a relatively compact two-seat configuration gave the model its own place within the range. Within the 100-6 series, the BN6 version is the more pure open two-seater, and thus a version that clearly differs in the model range from the later 2+2 variants. This makes the Austin Healey 100-6 BN6 Roadster historically interesting as an early and fairly pure representative of the Big Healey line.

Summary


The 1959 Austin Healey 100-6 BN6 Roadster belongs to the second generation of Big Healeys and represents the two-seat open version within the 100-6 series. The model marks the transition from the original Austin-Healey 100 to the later 3000 series, occupying a recognizable position within the marque's sports car history. To get a good idea of the lot we advise you to come to the viewing day.