1953 Healey Abbott Drophead Coupé

Vendor supplied images

Highlights

  • One of only 77 Healey Abbott Drophead Coupés ever made, with only 20-33 believed to survive
  • Featured in The Association of Healey Owners flyer and in 'The Healey Book' by Bill Emerson
  • Comprehensive restoration and maintenance history documented with a large file of invoices
  • Numerous details of the car's past exploits including a well-documented trip to Jordan

The Appeal

Of course we've all heard of the Austin-Healey, but few are acquainted with Donald Healey's earlier creations. Powered by a twin-cam four-cylinder Riley engine, the 'Abbott' was particularly accomplished for such a low-volume manufacturer at the time, capable of speeds in excess of 100 mph. 

Today, it's a rare and desirable classic, with only a handful of these models believed to be left in existence from the original 77 made. This example has been meticulously maintained and restored, with a comprehensive history file to back it up. The car has featured in several notable publications and embarked upon some exciting adventures including a well-documented trip to Jordan.

History and Paperwork

  • First registered in 1953
  • Large file with numerous invoices for restoration and maintenance
  • Well-documented past adventures
  • Featured in The Association of Healey Owners flyer and in 'The Healey Book' by Bill Emerson
  • Current owner purchased the car in 2019 and it has been used very little since
  • No evidence to warrant mileage except a comment in the 1984 Ellard Collection sale catalogue which stated "certain features indicate that the speedometer reading could be genuine" (24,426 miles at the time)
  • The odometer currently displays 35,902 miles

The Condition

  • Without doubt one of the best surviving Healey Abbotts
  • Straight and solid bodywork with distinctive styling
  • Repainted in 2015 and now exhibiting a light patina
  • A coat of oil has preserved the underside very nicely
  • Re-trimmed to a high standard, which has held up well
  • The biscuit upholstery continues to present beautifully
  • Paintwork is in overall very good condition with an excellent finish
  • Fully lined and padded hood is reportedly in excellent condition, easy to operate and providing a cosy, well-insulated cabin

The Mechanics

  • 2,440 cc Riley four-cylinder twin-cam
  • Four-speed manual gearbox
  • The vendor reports that the engine starts readily and sounds great
  • The Healey reportedly drives well with ample torque and pleasing performance through the gears
  • The brakes are pulling slightly, possibly due to lack of recent use
  • Torquey Riley engine sounds good and pulls the sizeable car very well

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BEFORE YOU BUY 

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A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details. 
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Auction Details
  • Year 1953
  • Make Healey
  • Model Abbot
  • Colour Red
  • Mileage 35,902 Miles
  • Engine size 2440
  • Seller Type Private
  • Town New Forest
  • County Hampshire
  • Country United Kingdom
  • Auction ends
Auction FAQs
Bidding history
13 Bids from 2 bidders
  • phil-ha•••• £20,250 22/04/24
  • Classic•••• £20,000 18/04/24
  • phil-ha•••• £19,000 17/04/24
  • Classic•••• £18,666 17/04/24
  • phil-ha•••• £18,000 17/04/24
  • Classic•••• £17,000 17/04/24
  • phil-ha•••• £16,000 16/04/24
  • phil-ha•••• £15,500 16/04/24
  • Classic•••• £15,250 16/04/24
  • phil-ha•••• £15,000 16/04/24

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