1956 100 MBN2 Le Mans

The descriptions of the Classic Cars in the Directory were partly generated or supplemented with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). The content may occasionally not always be entirely accurate or factually correct despite careful checking.

The Austin Healey 100 MBN2 Le Mans 1956 is a stunning example of automotive engineering from the golden age of British sports cars. This particular model was designed to showcase the power, performance, and elegance of classic British roadsters, and it certainly delivers on all fronts.

At the heart of the Austin Healey 100 MBN2 Le Mans 1956 is a powerful 2.6-liter, six-cylinder engine, which is capable of producing up to 132 horsepower at 4600 rpm. This gives the car a top speed of around 120 miles per hour, making it one of the fastest roadsters of its time.

The engine is coupled with a four-speed manual transmission, which allows for smooth and precise shifting. The car also features a sturdy chassis, with independent front suspension and a live rear axle that helps to provide a comfortable and stable ride.

One of the most striking features of the Austin Healey 100 MBN2 Le Mans 1956 is its sleek and streamlined body, which is constructed from lightweight aluminum panels over a tubular steel frame. This design is not only visually stunning, but also helps to reduce weight and improve handling.

The car comes with a number of other features designed to enhance its performance and appeal, including a power-assisted braking system, wire-spoke wheels, and a comprehensive dashboard with all the necessary gauges and controls.

Overall, the Austin Healey 100 MBN2 Le Mans 1956 is a true masterpiece of automotive engineering, combining power, performance, and style in a way that few other cars from its era can match. Whether you're looking for a classic sports car to show off at car shows and rallies or simply want an iconic piece of British automotive history to add to your collection, this car is sure to impress.

Milestones

- 1953: Austin-Healey began producing the 100 model, which was designed to compete in sports car races. - 1955: A team of three Austin-Healey 100s (including the BN1, the predecessor to the BN2) raced in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and finished in 12th, 14th, and 17th positions. - 1956: The Austin-Healey 100M BN2 (also known as the "Le Mans") was introduced, featuring larger carburetors, a cold air box, high-lift camshaft, and other performance upgrades. - June 23-24, 1956: The Austin-Healey works team (consisting of three 100Ms) competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The team finished 12th, 14th, and 15th overall, with two of the cars winning class awards. - 1957: The 100S, a street-legal version of the works Le Mans cars, was introduced. It featured a modified engine, disc brakes, and a close-ratio gearbox. - 1957-1959: The Austin-Healey 100S achieved numerous successes in sports car racing, winning its class at Sebring, Le Mans, and other events. - 1958: Production of the Austin-Healey 100 series ended, as the company shifted its focus to the larger and more powerful 3000 model.

Technical

• Engine: 2.6 litre inline 4-cylinder engine • Power: 110 horsepower at 4,500 RPM • Torque: 143 lb-ft at 2,400 RPM • Transmission: 4-speed manual gearbox • Chassis: Steel ladder frame with independent suspension • Brakes: Hydraulic drum brakes front and rear • Wheels: 16-inch wire-spoke wheels with knock-off hubs • Topspeed: 170 km/h (106 mph) • 0-60 mph: 10.7 seconds • Fuel consumption: 24 MPG (9.8 L/100km or 20 km/L) • Weight: 1,043 kg (2,300 lbs) • Dimensions: 3,968 mm (156 in) length, 1,524 mm (60 in) width, 1,295 mm (51 in) height • Production run: 640 units (including the Le Mans version) from 1953 to 1956. • Named after Donald Healey’s son’s given name and the designer, Gerry Coker. • Won the Grand Prix de l'ACF at Montlhéry in 1955 • Came in 2nd place at the 1955 Le Mans 24-hour race in class, and 12th overall • Won the Index of Performance category at 1956 Le Mans 24-hour race. • Also known as Austin-Healey 100 M, Austin-Healey 100 BN2, and Austin-Healey 100/4.