The Donald Healey Motor Company completed its first car immediately following the end of World War II and series production began with the Elliott saloon and Westland roadster in 1946. Both models were powered by the 2.4-liter Riley engine and featured a trailing arm independent suspension designed by Healey.
In addition to the Elliott and Westland, bare chassis were supplied to Duncan Industries in Norfolk until 1948 (when the company closed) and over that period it is believed that 39 cars were completed with Riley power and Duncan bodies. Most example of the Healey Duncan featured the unique pillars coupe form that was a striking comparison to its period competition while others were completed as semi-finished drones with only minimal bodywork to avoid significant taxes on cars that cost more than £1000. many of these stripped Duncan Healeys were later provided with Westland bodies or had other, more complete coachwork fitted.
It is estimated that of the 39 Duncan-bodied Healeys produced, some eight still exist in varying conditions, six of which are sports saloons as shown here. This car was restored in 1996 and sold by Bonhams for $56,163 (including the buyer’s premium) and represents one of the earliest Healey’s around.
Images courtesy of Bonhams.
'Profile – 1948 Healey Duncan' has 1 comment
January 26, 2016 @ 11:40 pm Patrick Quinn
This Healey Duncan Sports Saloon is now resident in Australia. After sustaining some body damage on the journey it has been repaired and repainted. Following some mechanical repairs it will be let loose on Australian roads.