An Interview with Gerry Coker

[RAC68]

Hi All,

For those who do not participate on the Healey list, an interesting and down-to-earth conversation with Gerry Coker was provided by Steven Kingsbury. Steven edited his interview and placed it on the web at Part I (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D-68_4xzHo0&feature=related) and Part II (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANWoaOZPN9I&feature=related) for all to enjoy.

As a very long time owner and promoter of the Austin Healey, I could never, personally, see the evolution of the 100 from Donald Healey’s previous cars. When I heard Jerry tell of the 100’s introduction, all fell into place.

I strongly suggest all see Steven’s interview on YouTube.

Ray (64BJ8P1)

 

[The_Cape]

Very interesting.Thanks for sharing.

 

[ModifiedBJ7]

Just watched the interview and thoroughly enjoyed it. Couldn't agree more about his thoughts on newer car design.

 

[judow]

I watched both Part 1 and Part 2 and indeed it was worth the watch. I saw Agatha in both parts. When Gerry was signing the dashboard of the Healey - right, that was Agatha. I'm not bragging but I sure was excited to see it.

 

[elrey]

Marvelous! Thank you very much. --elrey

 

[Jim_Newman]

Great stuff. I especially liked the bit about the wearing of raincoats backwards.

 

[bighealeysource]

Hey Ray,
Thanks for posting the link to Gerry Coker's interview. That was really interesting and nice insight into the way the Healey 100 got designed. Talk about the opposite from today's design by committee. I would love to have him sign the dash on my 100M !!!! What a delightful gentleman !
Regards,
Mike

 

[RAC68]

Hi All,

I thought many would like the interview. I was taken by the reality of his comments.

As previously said, I have never been a fan of the majority of Donald Healey’s designs and wondered how this beauty cam to pass. I may have not been a promoter had Donald intervened with something more consistent to his previous designs.

As funny as it may sound, one very rainy day in my youth, while driving as a passenger in a 100/6, I wore my raincoat backward as Gerry mentioned. I thought this was an original and very practical creation on my part and often mentioned it to my sport car friends (although none admitted following the practice). This just goes to show that everything old is new again.

Glad you enjoyed the interview.
Ray (64BJ8P1)