USA vs UK — 1951 vs 1954
| Roadster Le Mans | 100 S | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 140 hp | 132 hp |
| Torque | 220 lb-ft | 160 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,138 cc | 2,660 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.5 sec | 10.3 sec |
| Top Speed | 110 mph | 110 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.2 sec | 17.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,800 lbs | 2,183 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,642 mm | 2,286 mm |
| Length | 4,470 mm | 3,912 mm |
| Units Produced | 506 | 3,924 |
| Original MSRP | $5,908 | $2,995 |
| Value (Excellent) | $275,000 | $95,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 6/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1951 Nash-Healey Roadster Le Mans excels in greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 1954 Austin-Healey 100 S stands out for quicker acceleration, lighter weight, better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1951 Nash-Healey Roadster Le Mans against the 1954 Austin-Healey 100 S is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — USA versus UK. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1951 Nash-Healey Roadster Le Mans producing 140 hp and the 1954 Austin-Healey 100 S delivering 132 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Nash-Healey Roadster uses a Inline-6 OHV displacing 4,138 cc, while the Austin-Healey 100 relies on a Inline-4 OHV with 2,660 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1954 Austin-Healey 100 S edges ahead at 10.3 seconds versus 11.5 seconds. The Austin-Healey 100 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 617 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 506 units built, the 1951 Nash-Healey Roadster Le Mans is considerably scarcer than the Austin-Healey 100's 3,924 examples. On the collector market, the 1951 Nash-Healey Roadster Le Mans commands a significant premium over the 1954 Austin-Healey 100 S, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.