Image of 1960 Austin Healey 100-6, Note: These illustrations use artistic license and may differ from actual historical models.

Introduction

The 1960 Austin Healey 100-6 is a rolling testament to British automotive engineering and design of the late 1950s. Born from the collaborative genius of the Austin Motor Company and the renowned sports car designer Donald Healey, this classic roadster emerged as a symbol of elegance and performance. Its historical significance is anchored in its role as a bridge between post-war austerity and the swinging '60s, capturing the spirit of freedom and adventure. A unique fact that car enthusiasts may find fascinating is that the 100-6 was once the pace car for the Sebring race in Florida, cementing its place in motorsport history.

Design and Innovation

The 1960 Austin Healey 100-6 boasted an exterior that was both sleek and muscular, characterized by its long bonnet, set-back passenger compartment, and short rear deck. The bodywork was crafted with an eye for aerodynamics, featuring a classic roadster silhouette that was both sporty and sophisticated. Inside, occupants were greeted with a no-frills yet charming interior where leather and chrome accents were standard, reflecting the quality of materials typical of the era. Technologically, it featured innovations like front disc brakes which were quite advanced for its time. Color options ranged from vibrant reds to deep blues, with Healey Blue being a particularly popular choice among aficionados. The two-seater BN4 roadster was perhaps the most iconic body style, though a 2+2 variant was also available.

Historical Significance

The Austin Healey 100-6's impact on automotive design was profound; it helped popularize the quintessential British sports car aesthetic that would influence countless models thereafter. Its combination of affordability, performance, and style set it apart from other cars of its time and laid down a blueprint for future sports cars to follow.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its bonnet lay a robust 2.6-liter inline-six engine that propelled the 100-6 from 0 to 60 mph in just over 10 seconds—a respectable figure for its day—while reaching top speeds near the century mark. The vehicle's handling characteristics were lauded for their responsiveness, with drivers enjoying a tactile connection to winding roads while navigating through twists and turns. The symphony of its engine's growl paired with the wind rushing past created an exhilarating driving experience that was pure joy for motoring enthusiasts.

Ownership Experience

The Austin Healey 100-6 found its niche among various types of owners—from those who enjoyed it as a stylish daily driver to those who cherished it as a weekend show car or even used it in amateur racing events. Maintenance is straightforward for those familiar with classic British sports cars, though sourcing original parts can be challenging. Reliability is typical of vehicles from this era; regular upkeep is key.

Fun Facts

Did you know that only about 14,436 units of the Austin Healey 100-6 were produced? This rarity adds to its allure among collectors. While some critics pointed out its heavy steering at low speeds or limited cabin space, these quirks became endearing traits to loyal fans.

Collector's Information

The current value range for an Austin Healey 100-6 varies widely based on condition, originality, and provenance but can fetch anywhere from $40,000 to well over $100,000 for pristine examples or those with significant historical relevance. As time marches on, this classic British roadster continues to appreciate in value as collectors seek out these increasingly rare gems.

Conclusion

The 1960 Austin Healey 100-6 remains an emblematic figure in classic car culture—a blend of British charm, sporting pedigree, and timeless design. Its legacy endures not only through the preserved models cherished by collectors but also in the spirit it embodies: one of freedom, adventure, and pure driving pleasure.

1960 Austin Healey 100-6 Accessory Floor Mat - 12"X17"-AC 29Accessory Floor Mat - made of high quality black rubber with molded original emblem. Also designed to be sewn into new carpets. 12"X17", Each

1960 Austin Healey 100-6 Front and Rear Bumper Arm Grommets-BG 63Front and Rear Bumper Arm Grommets. 2-3/4" wide X 3-3/8" long, with 1-3/16" long inner slot. Pair

1960 Austin Healey 100-6 Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high-BN 1Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high., with 7/16" I.D. Each

1960 Austin Healey 100-6 Lower 'A' Arm Bushing. Made with metal sleeve-BN 23-CLower 'A' Arm Bushing. Made with metal sleeve. Eight used per car. 1-5/16" upper O.D.. 1" lower O.D., 5/8" I.D. X 15/16" high. Each

1960 Austin Healey 100-6 Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 1-1/2" wide X 3-3/8" long-CB 56Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 1-1/2" wide X 3-3/8" long. Pair

1960 Austin Healey 100-6 Gas Filler Grommet. 2-1/4" I.D., 3-5/16" O.D. Each-GF 21Gas Filler Grommet. 2-1/4" I.D., 3-5/16" O.D. Each

1960 Austin Healey 100-6 Headlight Ring Seal. 8-1/4" O.D., 6-3/8" I.D. Pair-HR 3Headlight Ring Seal. 8-1/4" O.D., 6-3/8" I.D. Pair

1960 Austin Healey 100-6 Windshield Post Pads. 2-1/4" wide X 5" long. Pair R&L-MP 111-AWindshield Post Pads. 2-1/4" wide X 5" long. Pair R&L

1960 Austin Healey 100-6 Tail-light Pads. 2-7/8" wide X 4" long. Pair R&L-MP 111-BTail-light Pads. 2-7/8" wide X 4" long. Pair R&L

1960 Austin Healey 100-6 Trunk Hinge Pads. 1-1/4" wide X 8-5/8" long. Set-MP 111-CTrunk Hinge Pads. 1-1/4" wide X 8-5/8" long. Set

1960 Austin Healey 100-6 Dash Mirror Base Pad. 7/8" wide X 2-1/2" long. Each-MP 111-DDash Mirror Base Pad. 7/8" wide X 2-1/2" long. Each

1960 Austin Healey 100-6 Trunk Handle Pad. 1-5/8" wide X 5-3/4" long. Each-MP 111-TTrunk Handle Pad. 1-5/8" wide X 5-3/4" long. Each

1960 Austin Healey 100-6 Windshield Wiper Transmission Pad-MP 111-WWindshield Wiper Transmission Pad. 1-1/8" wide X 1-1/2" long. Each

1960 Austin Healey 100-6 Starter Solenoid Button Cover. Perfect reproduction. Each-RP 1Starter Solenoid Button Cover. Perfect reproduction. Each

1960 Austin Healey 100-6 Stabilizer Bar Bushings. 1-1/2" high, 3/16" I.D. Pair-RP 22Stabilizer Bar Bushings. 1-1/2" high, 3/16" I.D. Pair

1960 Austin Healey 100-6 Gas Tank to Trunk Seal & Cushion-RP 25-CGas Tank to Trunk Seal & Cushion. For 6-cylinder models only, does not work on 4-cylinder models. Made of quality black sponge. 19" X 8-1/4" X 1/2". Each