This 1956 Austin Healey Blackhawk 100M is one of 640 100M’s built in 1955 and 1957 in honor of the 1953 Austin Healey 24 hours of Le Mans entrants and less than 190 exist today. This cost of the 100M new was $3,275.

100m engine modifications increased HP from 90 to 100. The suspension was also modified along with a louvered bonnet and distinctive leather strap as required at Le Mans.

This 100M was the only Austin Healey to participate and complete the 2002 Great Race from San Antonio,TX to Anaheim,CA and finished 50th overall. The car was also raced in the early 1950’s and 1960’s at the Continental Divide Raceway in Colorado. It won the Palmetto Award at the 2012 HHI Concours, was invited to the 2013 Boca Raton, Kiawah Island Concours and 2014 Pinehurst Concours.

Overview

• Production Year: 1956
• Manufacturer: Austin-Healey
• Model: 100M "Le Mans"

Design and Specifications

• Engine:
  • The 100M was powered by a 2.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine.
  • This engine produced around 110 horsepower, thanks to several performance upgrades over the standard model.
  • It featured high-compression pistons, a high-lift camshaft, larger carburetors, and a modified ignition system.
• Transmission:
  • The car came with a 4-speed manual transmission, often with overdrive on the top gears.
  • The gearbox was known for its precise and sporty feel, enhancing the driving experience.
• Chassis:
  • The 100M featured a robust chassis designed to handle the increased power and performance demands.
  • It had a wheelbase of 90 inches, providing a good balance between stability and agility.
• Suspension:
  • The front suspension used independent coil springs, while the rear featured a rigid axle with leaf springs.
  • These suspension components were tuned for a sportier ride, improving handling and cornering.
• Brakes:
  • The 100M was equipped with drum brakes on all four wheels, which were standard for the era but capable of handling the car's performance.

Performance

• Top Speed: The Austin Healey 100M could achieve a top speed of around 115 mph (185 km/h), making it one of the faster sports cars of its time.
• Acceleration: The car could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 10.5 seconds, thanks to its improved engine and lighter weight.
• Handling: With its low center of gravity, short wheelbase, and well-tuned suspension, the 100M offered excellent handling characteristics, making it a joy to drive on winding roads.

Design Features

• Bodywork:
  • The 100M featured a sleek, aerodynamic design with a distinctive low profile and curved lines.
  • The car had a lightweight aluminum hood with louvers and a leather hood strap, both of which were signature features of the 100M model.
• Interior:
  • The interior was spartan but functional, designed to prioritize the driving experience.
  • It featured bucket seats, a simple dashboard with essential gauges, and a large steering wheel.
• Styling:
  • The car's styling was a blend of elegance and sportiness, with chrome accents, a prominent front grille, and classic wire wheels.
  • The 100M often came in a two-tone paint scheme, adding to its visual appeal.

Legacy and Historical Significance

• Historical Significance:
  • The Austin Healey 100M is significant for its role in sports car racing and its influence on later Austin Healey models.
  • The 100M "Le Mans" model was developed to commemorate the brand's success at the 24 Hours of Le Mans race.
• Cultural Impact:
  • The 100M became a symbol of British sports car engineering and was highly regarded by driving enthusiasts for its performance and handling.
  • It has been featured in various classic car shows, rallies, and vintage racing events.

Taken at the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival.

You may purchase a print of the 1956 Austin Healey Blackhawk 100M in our dElegance 2015 online gallery.

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