Opinions on a butchered 1955 100

[1960es]

I have owned mostly triumphs but I have owned one bugeye! Anyway, I am not very knowledgeable about Austin Healeys when it comes to practical experience.

I have run across a 1955 100-4 that if it was a triumph I would pass on it. However, I would love anyone's opinion about this car. Let me try to describe it.

It has been in this storage building and off the road since 1972. It was from Georgia. Before some redneck got it, it was probably a pretty decent car. I am a southern boy so I can say redneck.

Rust is minimal really. HOWEVER, no motor or tranny. Also, the rear end is from either a chevy or ford. Same for the front. A little hacking in the engine bay but that could be worse actually. Anyway, the guy wants $1500. Probably negotiable.

I guess I am only interested if I could restore it. Parts don't really do me any good really. I am sorry I do not have pics but I hope you get the idea from my description.

I should add I am not a purist. However, I am thinking with SO many missing original mechanical parts, this would be an uphill battle. It does have the original interior, steering column, front grille, bumpers, top bows, etc.

Thanks for the advice in advance.

 

[Marvin Gruber]

If sheetmetal is decent, grab it. Well worth that. If you pass, I would be interested.

Marv

 

[Healey_Z]

Hey 1960,

if it has the windshield and is not a rust bucket, I'd snag it. Here is my current and past car. It is tough to beet the looks of a Healey!

 

[CLEAH]

Sounds like a good price for a 100 that is mostly there. The missing mechanical bits is not an issue if, as you say, you are not hung up on originality. Take a look around this site or Google "Nasty Boy Healey" and you will find out a lot about how Healeys were modified in period. Sounds like a fun project.

 

[1960es]

Marvin, Healey_Z, and CLEAH,

Thanks so much for the quick feedback.

I will do my research and let you know what I do.

Eddie

 

[wolf]

Does the car have a North Carolina title ? if not , you may have to jump thur hoops with the NC DMV , I am in North Carolina and purchased a 1957 100-6 basket case from the state of Ga. 3 years ago which came with only a bill of sale as Ga. does not title older cars . It took a few meetings with a DMV inspector and purchasing a 3 year bond but I was able to get a North Carolina title . With luck yours will have a NC tittle and you can avoid this headache . buy it and just make a "fun driver car " since it will not be a matching number car / all original car .

 

[1960es]

Wolf,

Thanks for mentioning this. I knew this would be an issue based on some stories I have heard relating to NC changes over the last 4-5 years. I have a question for you....how much is your advisor fee? 8^)

Eddie

 

[stevebn2bj7]

Buy it!! Worst case you could part it out for many times that figure.

 

[wolf]

Eddie , I would be happy to help you anyway I can , no fee . Pm me your phone number if you think you may get the car and I will call you . ken