Charles S Crail Automobiles
By Appointment Only
Santa Barbara, CA 93108
Completed on October 27, 1954, this lovely Austin-Healey 100/4 BN1 originally left the factory finished in Carmine Red with a black interior. It was equipped from new with a heater and a miles-per-hour speedometer, indicating its intended destination was abroad. Documentation accompanying the vehicle includes a copy of the original invoice, showing that it was delivered to Mr. and Mrs. Robert Campbell of Fountain City, Tennessee through Snider Motors in Knoxville on April 4, 1955. The Campbells paid a total of $3,149.60-covering $1,949.60 in cash, financing $600, and receiving a $600 trade-in value for their 1950 Studebaker. The invoice also notes complimentary additions of side mirrors and reverse lights.
Throughout its life, the car has had just five owners, with the first two based in Tennessee and retaining it for the majority of its life. The Campbells kept the Healey for 11-years and maintained detailed service logs, including handwritten notes documenting every oil change and tire rotation. The next caretaker was equally diligent, maintaining thorough records during nearly 50-years of ownership.
A full restoration was carried out in 1983, and the car went on to win the prestigious AACA National 1st Prize the following year. During this time, the original 3-speed gearbox was modified to a 4-speed while retaining the factory overdrive. It cruises comfortably at highway speeds in 4th gear, and with the overdrive engaged, the top-end feels endless. Ongoing upkeep since then has allowed it to age gracefully into a well-preserved example, with little use in subsequent years.
In 2014, the BN1 was sold to its 3rd owner on the East Coast, and it was sold again in 2016. Since then, key components like the brakes, generator, and carburetors have been rebuilt, and the car now rides on Vredestein tires with plenty of tread. A new soft-top was more recently installed by the previous owner who purchased it in 2020.
Boasting a well-documented history and consistent care from new, this spirited roadster is ideal for touring and vintage events. Included with the car are the original sales invoice, rare factory body production card, 1955 owner's manual, tool kit, spare tire, window inserts, Heritage Certificate, and extensive records and receipts, making it a compelling and stylish classic to drive and enjoy.
| Year: | 1955 |
| Make: | Austin-Healey |
| Model: | 100/4 BN1 |
| Mileage: | |
| Exterior Color: | Carmine Red |
| Interior Color: | Black |
| Trim: | |
| Body: | |
| Stock: | 1241 |
| Engine Size: | |
| Transmission: | |
| Vin: | BN1L220856 |
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