Historic Austin-Healey 100S Catches $1.3 Million at Bonhams Auction

Will the new owner restore it?

This particular Austin-Healey was projected to sell for $783,550. Instead, the 100S shot up to $1.3 million at Bonhams Auction in Weybridge, UK. As one of four "Special Test Cars" the prototype with the registration number NOJ 393 was driven by Lance Macklin in the 1955 24 Hours of Le Mans and played a major role in the horrific crash that killed 83 and injured 120.

After swerving to avoid another car, Macklin was hit from behind by Pierre Levegh and his Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR. Levegh was sent flying into the crowd as firey debris spewed across spectators. As one of the worst racing accidents in history, it was a cornerstone in increased safety standards for the sport. 

After a restoration and changing hands multiple times in the '60s, the car has been sitting with the same owner since 1969. 

[via Speed TV]

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