Looking at it in a bit of an obsessed analytical way there are tones coming from the exhaust created by harmonics ranging from 1/2 to 3 times the engine rpm plus a few in between. They are caused by the firing of the cylinders. That being said the unique healey exhaust note that differs from other straight six engines comes from the front and rear three cylinders being directed into separate exhaust pipes combined with the exhaust system volume and undersquare bore/stroke design of the engine. You wind instrument players out there know that you create a richer tone by involving your diaphram. Much in the same way we are lucky that our engines have a long stroke that works with the exhaust system to result in a tone that's perceived as more pleasing. Of course I am partial to Healeys. So, let's hum along with our engines, enjoy our company and be smug about it.