A magnificent 1956 Austin Healey 100/4, finished to Le Mans specification, is expected to race ahead at a sale of classic, collectors', historic and sports cars.

The auction, held by Barons, takes place at Sandown Park, in Surrey, UK, on February 9.

The 1956 Austin Healey 100/4 (£42k-£48k)

Originally supplied to North America, the 100/4 returned to the UK in 1992 when it was purchased by the vendor as a rolling shell and box of parts.

Over the next 10 years, the current owner lovingly restored the car - a complete rebuild, for which they photocopied the entire parts manual, replacing and conditioning every single part.

The car's restoration followed the original owner's manual to the letter

The 100/4 is equipped with high compression Le Mans pistons, modified cam followers and a Denis Welch Le Mans camshaft, bearings and steel sprocket and fast road, aluminium cylinder head, and competition studs and washers.

It will appear at Barons with an estimate of £42,000-£48,000.

Viewings will be held on Monday, February 8, 3pm-7.30pm and on Tuesday, February 9, 9am-1.30pm. The sale itself starts at 1.30pm.