The San Diego Automotive Museum is selling some of its individual automobiles to the public to support its programs and enhance its collection.

The 1959 Austin-Healey refers to a range of British sports cars produced by the British Motor Corporation (BMC) in collaboration with the Donald Healey Motor Company. The Austin-Healey lineup for 1959 included two primary models: the Austin-Healey 100-6 and the Austin-Healey 3000 Mk I, with the Austin-Healey Sprite Mk I also available as a smaller, entry-level sports car. Below is a detailed overview of these models, focusing on their specifications, history, and context, with comparisons to the previously discussed 1948 Crosley Convertible and 1959 Austin Mini where relevant.
1. Austin-Healey 100-6 (1956–1959)
The Austin-Healey 100-6 was a two-seat roadster (with an optional 2+2 configuration) introduced in 1956 as a successor to the Austin-Healey 100, and it continued production through 1959. It bridged the gap between the earlier 100 and the later 3000 models, earning its place among the "Big Healeys."
Specifications
Engine: 2.6L (2638 cc) BMC C-Series inline-six, overhead valve, producing 117 bhp (87 kW) at 4750 rpm and 150 ft-lbs (203 Nm) at 3000 rpm by 1959, thanks to a revised 6-port intake manifold and cylinder head introduced in 1957.

Transmission: 4-speed manual with optional overdrive on third and fourth gears, enhancing cruising efficiency.

Dimensions:
Wheelbase: 92.0 inches

Length: 157.5 inches

Width: 60.5 inches

Weight: Approximately 1105 kg (BN6 2-seater) to 1124 kg (BN4 2+2).

Tires: 5.90x15.

Top Speed: Approximately 104–106 mph, with 0–60 mph in about 11.5 seconds.

Body Styles: Offered as a 2-seat roadster (BN6, introduced in 1958) and a 2+2 roadster (BN4, with small rear seats). Both were convertibles with a folding soft top.

Suspension: Front independent double wishbone with coil springs; rear rigid axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.

Brakes: Girling drum brakes on all four wheels (disc brakes were introduced on the 3000 Mk I).

Design and Features
Styling: Featured a long bonnet, set-back passenger compartment, and short rear deck, embodying classic British sports car aesthetics. Updates for 1959 included a lower, wider radiator grille, a bonnet air scoop, and a fixed windscreen. The BN6 2-seater was more streamlined than the BN4 2+2.

Interior: Simple yet functional, with leather or vinyl upholstery, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, and basic instrumentation (speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge). The 2+2’s rear seats were small, suitable for children or short trips.

Innovations: The longer wheelbase (2 inches over the 100) improved handling, and the six-cylinder engine offered more torque than the 100’s four-cylinder, though early models faced criticism for being less lively until the 1957 manifold upgrade.

Historical Context
Production: 4,150 BN6 2-seaters were produced from 1958 to 1959, with BN4 2+2 models also built from 1956. Production occurred at BMC’s Longbridge plant until 1957, then shifted to Abingdon.

Purpose: Designed for enthusiasts seeking a balance of performance and style, the 100-6 competed with cars like the Triumph TR3 and MG MGA. It was a popular export, especially to North America.

Racing: Competed in rallies and races, including the 1957 12 Hours of Sebring, where modified versions with Weber carburetors and streamlined bodies performed well.

Collectibility
Rarity: The BN6 2-seater is rarer than the BN4, with fewer surviving examples. Well-preserved or restored 1959 models are highly sought after.