Here we go again!: What is [and isn't] an Austin-Healey 100M?

[Bob_Spidell]

Since that thread is closed to new comments, I'm going to stir the pot some more here.

I have seen brass plaques on the fascia (dash) identifying the car as a 'genuine' 100M, but our car didn't have one when we bought it (it is a BMIHT and 100M Registry 'Registry Certified' 100M). Were these plaques installed at the Healey 'factory?' Or, were they dealer or owner additions?

Also, have heard that repro louvred bonnets are not quite the same as original; supposedly the louvres and bracing are different. Anyone know exactly what the differences are?

TIA,
Bob

 

[bighealeysource]

Hey Bob.
I assume you don't mean Bill Meade's 100M Registry brass plaque. I have one of those on the right side of the fascia and would imagine you do too. I recall seeing a car on ebay where the resto shop had made something up but never anything else. But with the way values continue to rise probably will see more stuff like that to give the impression it's one of the 640 factory cars.
Regards
Mike

 

[Bob_Spidell]

Have confirmation from a definitive source that 100Ms did not come from the factory with a dash plaque, though 100Ses did. I have the Registry plaque, but won't be installing it.

Thanks for the reply.

 

[shortsguy1]

I am new to the world of Healey's, but recently checked out every book I could on them via interlibrary loan. Anyway, all the books I have in front of me refer to a brass plate on the cold air box to indicate a factory 100M. None mention a plaque on the dash.