This modified 1960 Austin Healey BN2 has an incredible story that blends innovation, automotive history, and personal dedication. The car, originally a standard BN2, underwent a unique modification process by Arnold Zucchi Inc. around the spring of 1961. Zucchi's company specialized in repairing aluminum-bodied sports cars, and for this project, they took the BN2 and modified the front end to resemble a 1958 Ferrari. The result was a one-of-a-kind car that caught the attention of the San Francisco Bay Area car community.
In late 1962, the modified Austin Healey was shown at several events and went on to win multiple trophies, showcasing the craftsmanship and design behind its transformation. There are a number of vintage photos in the gallery that document the car’s presence and achievements during this time.
Now, for the most intriguing part of the story: the connection to Shelby and the Cobra. In 1956, Carroll Shelby proposed a partnership with Donald Healey to create a new vehicle, using a modified Healey 100S. However, Healey declined Shelby's offer, and Shelby eventually partnered with AC Cars, leading to the birth of the iconic Cobra in 1963. The possibility that this Zucchi-modified Healey may have inspired Shelby’s designs for the Cobra is a fascinating theory, though one that remains open to speculation.
What makes this car even more remarkable is the fact that the seller has owned it since 1968 and performed a restoration in 2017-2018. Throughout the years, the seller has maintained and serviced the vehicle himself, ensuring it has remained in top condition. During the restoration process, he started tracing the car's ownership and design history, which led him to discover that Arnold Zucchi was the mastermind behind the modification.
The 100 series Austin Healey cars are already highly regarded for their performance and style, but this particular vehicle’s story adds an extra layer of intrigue and historical significance. Whether or not the Zucchi-modified BN2 played a role in inspiring the Shelby Cobra is a matter of debate, but the connection to both Shelby and the early days of sports car racing makes this car a truly special piece of automotive history. If you’re a collector or enthusiast looking for something unique with a rich backstory, this is a car that truly stands out.
