Although not everyone has heard of the standalone Austin marque, and with its partnership with Healey, the Austin-Healey marque, it was one of the most respected British carmakers in its time. The company was the result of a partnership between the Donald Healey Motor Company and a division from the British Motor Company. Donald Healey's company was a firm employing some of the best automobile designers in the country. The team created five distinct models in the years between 1953 and 1972. Both parties left for other manufacturing companies at the end of 1972, putting an end to production of all Austin-Healey vehicles.

Classic curves

The first Austin-Healey model was the 100. This sports car was only built from 1953 until 1956. Designed by Donald Healey himself, this model impressed the head of the Austin division when he viewed it at the London Motor Show in 1952. The graceful curves and the top speed of 100 miles per hour were unlike anything available from other companies. The Healey 100 line included three separate models. More than 10,000 BN1 model cars were built, but important changes to the transmission caused the company to release the BN2 in its place during 1955. The four-speed transmission, air box and higher compression made this version perfect for racing. The 50 AHS models built through this period were capable of hitting 132 miles per hour.

The next big Healey

The 100-6 replaced the original Austin-Healey in 1956. The six-cylinder engine made it significantly more responsive. The windshield lost the ability to fold down in the interests of safety and two new seats were added. This line ran until 1959 when the famous Austin-Healey 3000 premiered. No major changes were made at first, but the Mark II release of the 3000 saw a number of changes. A wrap-around windshield was added for safer racing and a hardtop option became available as well. The BJ8, the final model in the 3000 line, was sold until 1967. It included a 150 horsepower engine. The exhaust and suspension system were also dramatically improved. Nearly 20,000 vehicles were produced under the BJ8 designation.

Small and quick

The last vehicle produced by Austin-Healey was the Sprite. This open bodied sports car was much smaller than the previous "Big Healeys." It was a small and affordable model marketed to a wide consumer base. The two headlights mounted on the top of the hood have earned this car the nickname of the "Bugeye." The top speed was only 82 miles per hour, but it had a fuel efficiency of 36 miles to the gallon. This made it easy for many more drivers to enjoy a Sunday drive in a sports car.