Highlights
- Incredibly rare Woodley Healey tribute car, believed to be one of just 32 produced
- Built to a very high standard, and not to be confused with poor replica kits
- Offers iconic Healey styling, with improved performance & dependability
- Presents a fantastic opportunity to experience the Healey, at tremendous value
The Appeal
Named for its impressive ability to reach 100mph, the Healey 100 captured the hearts of motorists across the globe and has since been revered by enthusiasts & collectors alike. As is seemingly the case with many popular classic sports cars, the Healey has also received its fair share of flattery and tribute over the years.
This, however, is no poor quality replica attempt, instead standing as a truly sublime showcase of the Healey’s iconic design, with a vast array of improvements and upgrades. The first of which, can be found at the core of this evocation, in the form of a modern chassis designed by Woodley Engineering. The chassis is then mated with Datsun 280Z running gear, independent front suspension, front disc brakes, and a Ford rear axle to provide excellent power, handling and potentially far greater reliability.
This, however, is no poor quality replica attempt, instead standing as a truly sublime showcase of the Healey’s iconic design, with a vast array of improvements and upgrades. The first of which, can be found at the core of this evocation, in the form of a modern chassis designed by Woodley Engineering. The chassis is then mated with Datsun 280Z running gear, independent front suspension, front disc brakes, and a Ford rear axle to provide excellent power, handling and potentially far greater reliability.
The upgraded chassis and drivetrain pair with a lightweight GRP body, which perfectly captures the Healey’s iconic body lines, and vastly improves the vehicle’s power-to-weight ratio. The GRP bodywork also negates the need for rust-related concerns, potentially offering greater futureproofing than the original Healey itself.
Each built to an incredibly high standard, these very rare Woodley Healey tribute cars now offer a fantastic opportunity to experience the Healey, for a mere fraction of the price typically paid for an original 100/4. Now ready to be tested and registered for road use, this very example would make a superb addition to any collection, and yields plenty of engaging, top-down motoring ahead.
The History and Paperwork
- Believed to be one of just 32 examples produced
- Assembled by Woodley Engineering in South Africa, in 1994
- Well maintained over the years, and seemingly very well cared for too
- Imported to the United Kingdom in 2017, with NOVA certification and export papers to show
- Ready to be MOT’d and registered for road use by the next keeper
The Interior
- Presents a minimal, driver-focused interior
- Features slick, low-back bucket seats
- Equipped with a 3-spoke MOMO wooden steering wheel
- Features period correct Smiths instruments
- Offers tidy black carpeting throughout the cabin
- Includes a tonneau cover, and weather kit
- Presented in excellent condition, with very few signs of wear or age to note
The Exterior
- Lightweight GRP bodywork, finished with signature Healey two-tone paintwork
- Equipped with 14” steel wheels, which present excellent finishes all around, with plenty of Goodyear rubber left to enjoy
- Presented in excellent condition today, with seemingly only light brightwork ageing and minor paintwork defects to note
The Mechanics
- Features Datsun 280Z running gear, including;
- 2.8L straight-six engine
- Four-speed manual gearbox
- Independent front suspension
- Front disc brakes
- Utilizes a Ford rear axle, and rear brakes
- Includes a new ignition switch, ready to be fitted
- Believed to be in excellent running order, benefiting from the likes of a new cylinder head, and a recent timing chain replacement
- Offers a fantastic power-to-weight ratio, yielding a thoroughly enjoyable driving experience
Summary
This Woodley Healey 100/4 evocation presents a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a slice of the “Big Healey” pie, at a mere fraction of the cost. You’re still treated to all of the iconic styling cues of the original, now with Datsun & Ford mechanicals, a modern chassis, and a retro driver-focused interior. This Healey tribute arguably stands as a better value, more dependable option to enjoy, saving plenty of fun tokens for additional toys.
