1959 Austin Healey

Convertible

2639 CC 117 BHP straight 6 Cylinder

Manual

BN6L / 3261

Clear

Comments & Special Features: This vehicle was purchased over 30 years ago, and was running until 2012. The owner is deceased and his daughter is having this appraisal done to determine a value to sell the vehicle. The VIN indicates that this is a 100-6 model, built sometime before March of 1959. The vehicle is equipped with front disc brakes and has a 3000 logo. These options would indicate that the vehicle has been modified, or that some mechanical and body alterations had been done sometime in its life, since the 3000 models started production in late March 1959, had a BN7 VIN prefix and were the first models with front disc brakes. There is some indication of red paint on the lower rear underbody. Engine/Engine Compartment: The engine is a 2639 CC 117 BHP straight 6 Cylinder with twin Stromberg side draft carburetors. The 26D prefix on the engine number should be confirmation of this information. The engine is aged consistent with the age and mileage in the vehicle. the chrome valve cover is rusted, paint is chipped and worn around the compartment and some superficial rust is visible in various areas. The area is not detailed. Overall this area is fair to good. Chassis: The chassis is coated with oil and grease in many areas. There is some indication of minor superficial rust in areas, but overall the metal appears very solid and still has undercoating on most surfaces. The transmission is a 4 speed manual with electric overdrive and the factory rear. Brakes are front disc and rear drum. Tires are 165 R15 radials, mounted on factory knock-off wire wheels. Wheels and tires are in good condition. Knock Off nuts show some use and chipped chrome. Exhaust system is good. Overall the undercarriage is good. Interior: The interior carpets and seats have undergone recent replacement. The dash is good and the gages appear original and in good condition. The wooden steering wheel is nicely aged and in good condition Pedals are good. Door panels, chrome and rear panels are very good Overall the interior is good to very good. The trunk is clean and has a grey carpet installed. The lid has some chipped paint and rust visible. 2 spare tires are available. Exterior: The exterior paint is generally in good condition. There are minor chips and touch up marks all over. The bumpers have minor dents and some chrome peeling in the rear. The side trim and window moldings are good and the grill and logos are good to very good. The top and rear window are good to very good. The windshield has a crack, but the frame is good. There is some indication of body filler using the magnet test in the lower areas of the RR and LR fenders and behind the left door. Overall the exterior is good. Summary / Comments: - This is a very functional driver, that has been well cared for. Some signs of oil leaks and aging is apparent all over. The owner obviously used and enjoyed the vehicle, and was in the process of doing some restoration, primarily in the interior. The body and frame are very solid and this is definitely a candidate for full restoration, or just cleaning and detailing to be enjoyed as is. The discrepancy with the brakes and logos mentioned previously are not a significant area of concern. This appraiser could find no firm documentation that this could not have occurred during the factory transition from the 100/6 to the 3000, as both vehicles were built on the same assembly line, in the same month. Condition Rating: - (3) This is a functional, drivable vehicle in good overall condition needing no, or only minor work. Most vehicles at car shows reflect this condition. This car is what is termed a “20 footer”. From 20 feet, it may look very good. Close inspection, however, would reveal some worn interior trim, and less than perfect paint (worn, and perhaps faded). You may even see some early evidence that surface rust is beginning in the body panels. This car is completely operational and is an “older restoration”. It is driven fairly often, runs great, and is enjoyed by its owner. It is probably a candidate for a full restoration. The undercarriage may display surface rust, and may be in need of detailing. Chrome and trim may exhibit limited pitting.