Description

Dinky Car Austin Healy from the mid Century. Missing its windshield and Driver. Otherwise in original condition. Great for a renovation or keep the patina of all those years.

The Dinky Toy Austin Healey is another highly collectible miniature car produced by Dinky Toys, based on the real-life Austin Healey, a British sports car manufactured by the Austin Motor Company and Healey. The Austin Healey became an iconic vehicle in the 1950s and 1960s, and Dinky captured its sporty design in miniature form.

Key Features of the Dinky Toy Austin Healey:

1. Model Production: The Dinky Austin Healey was produced in the 1950s and 1960s, with a notable model number being #151, which was introduced around 1957.
2. Design: The Dinky version of the Austin Healey typically featured the recognizable sleek, open-top roadster design of the real car. The model was fairly detailed, with chrome-like features such as bumpers, grills, and headlights. Dinky also included the detailed lines and curves that mirrored the design of the real-life sports car.
3. Scale: As with most Dinky Toys, the Austin Healey was produced in a 1:43 scale, making it around 3-4 inches in length. The scale allowed for a good amount of detail in the casting.
4. Colors: Dinky produced the Austin Healey in various colors, including light blue, red, and cream. The paint job could vary over time, and some colors are more sought after than others by collectors.
5. Details: The car had plastic or metal wheels, with some versions having spoked wheels for added detail. The model had no interior detailing, but it did have a molded dashboard and simple driver’s seat. Some versions had opening hoods, a common feature in many Dinky cars of the era.

Variations and Rarity:

Like many Dinky Toys, the Austin Healey model came in different versions and color schemes over time. Some notable variations include differences in the color of the baseplate, the design of the tires, or minor changes in the casting.

• The Early Version (circa 1957): The earlier models had a more basic design with simpler detailing. They were usually painted in solid colors.
• Later Versions: In later production runs, Dinky occasionally updated the design or included minor tweaks to the casting.

Collectibility:

Dinky Cars from the 1950s and 1960s, like the Austin Healey, are very collectible today. Original versions in good condition can fetch decent prices, particularly if they come in their original boxes. Cars that are in mint condition (i.e., with no paint chips or scratches) and those with rare color variations are especially valuable.

The Dinky Austin Healey is a favorite among collectors of vintage toy cars because it represents a classic British sports car, and it embodies the high-quality craftsmanship Dinky was known for during that era. If you’re considering adding one to your collection, the key factors to consider include the condition of the model, the presence of any packaging, and the rarity of the color or version.