Complete Description
- Unique model, aluminium bodywork
- Transparent and documented history
- Numerous racing upgrades
- No reserve
This is a truly unique car: this Austin Healey BN1 left the factory on the 27th January 1955 (as evidenced by the factory delivery certificate) and was subsequently shipped to Sydney, Australia. In 1957, it was re-bodied by Ausca at the request of renowned enthusiast Paul England, taking inspiration from the Maserati A6GCS/53 Fantuzzi Spyder. It was sold in 1959 and registered as “GTV 116”, going on to compete in numerous Australian races in the 1960s as evidenced by photographs. In 1967, the car was entrusted to Sid Ward in order to have an aluminium coupe bodywork fitted, a unique bodywork the car has retained to this day and which earned it the nickname ‘Ward Special’! Many documents provide a detailed account of this car’s history and its successive changes of ownership, right up to its complete restoration, which was completed in 1996. Designed as a racing car, it has been the subject to numerous enhancements over the years, whilst retaining its original engine and its three-speed gearbox with overdrive, restored by John Needham. The intakes are special, the radiator tank has an increased capacity, adjustable Koni shock absorbers were fitted, brake drums are drilled for better cooling, the rims have 72 spokes, seats are inspired by the 100 S, and so on… However, unlike many other projects of this kind, this car features high-quality craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail in its finishes, such as the refined and elegant bumpers, the exhaust pipe running through the bodywork and the bonnet with its air vents. This authentic racing car is unique, its history has been documented since its inception, and it offers a surprising level of build quality – qualities that are rarely found in a single car.
