1953 Healey Abbott Drophead Coupé
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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.
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
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ 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.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1953
- Make Healey
- Model Abbot
- Colour Red
- Odometer 35,902 Miles
- Engine size 2440
Auction Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town New Forest
- Location Hampshire
- Country United Kingdom
13
bids
from 2
bidders
- ph•••• £20,250 22/04/24
- Cl•••• £20,000 18/04/24
- ph•••• £19,000 17/04/24
- Cl•••• £18,666 17/04/24
- ph•••• £18,000 17/04/24
- Cl•••• £17,000 17/04/24
- ph•••• £16,000 16/04/24
- ph•••• £15,500 16/04/24
- Cl•••• £15,250 16/04/24
- ph•••• £15,000 16/04/24
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