Austin-Healey 100-Six
The first of the 'Big Healeys' to feature six-cylinder power and 2+2 seating.
- Power
- 102 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 12.9 s
- Top speed
- 103 mph
- Est. value
- $28k–$75k
About the Austin-Healey 100-Six
Introduced in 1956 to replace the four-cylinder 100, the 100-Six BN4 marked a significant shift for Austin-Healey by adopting the BMC C-Series engine and a longer wheelbase to accommodate two small rear seats. Early models, often called 'Longbridge Healeys', were initially criticised for being heavier and no faster than their predecessors due to an inefficient cylinder head design. Despite this, the model established the iconic 'Big Healey' silhouette, featuring a fixed windscreen and a distinctive oval grille with horizontal bars. It remains a staple of the classic British roadster scene, valued for its robust torque and grand touring capability.
Austin-Healey 100-Six specs
The Austin-Healey 100-Six produces 102 bhp (76 kW) and 193 Nm (142 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 12.9 seconds and has a top speed of 103 mph (165 km/h).
| Make | Austin-Healey |
|---|---|
| Model | 100-Six |
| Trim | 2.6 |
| Years | 1956–1959 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 14,436 built |
| Original price | About $3,200 when new |
| Engine | 2.6-litre C-Series inline-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,639 cc (2.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 102 bhp (76 kW) at 4,600 rpm |
| Torque | 193 Nm (142 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 12.9 s |
| Top speed | 103 mph (165 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,124 kg (2,478 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 91 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an Austin-Healey 100-Six worth?
A typical Austin-Healey 100-Six is estimated to be worth $28,000 – $75,000 (about £21,000 – £56,000).
Its original price when new was about $3,200.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Austin-Healey 100-Six rarity in CarSpot
The Austin-Healey 100-Six is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 56 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Austin-Healey 100-Six fun facts
- The BN4's 2+2 seating was achieved by stretching the wheelbase by just two inches compared to the original 100.
- Early 100-Six models used a 'gallery head' engine that produced 102 hp, which was later upgraded to a 117 hp six-port head in late 1957.
- Production was moved from Longbridge to the MG plant at Abingdon in 1957, where all subsequent Big Healeys were built.