The unique 1953 Nash-Healey presented here "as found" was owned for over 40 years by Archie Moore, undefeated light heavyweight World Boxing Champion of the 1950s, until the time of his passing at the age of 85 in 1998.
The Roadster body was hand built by (Pinin) Farina in Italy, fitted with Le Mans racing-derived suspension and Nash mechanicals at Donald Healey's factory in England, and finally shipped to the USA.
A labor of love, fewer than 125 Nash-Healey Roadsters were ever completed. More expensive than Jaguar XK120 or Chevrolet Corvette, many were owned by celebrities, quite a few were raced competitively throughout the 1950s.
This particular example is one of three cars mildly customized by George and Sam Barris for Moore; just by toning down the Nash-prescribed chrome trim, the Barris Bros. realized a look that was more in line with Farina's masterpiece, the Cisitalia 202 of 1947.
During the 1960s, the car acquired a Ford 289 V8 engine and an automatic transmission, easily doubling its power output. Apart from its original California black-and-gold license plate, it comes with convertible top, side curtains, and original front bumper. An absolute joy on the road, piloting it truly makes you feel like a Champion!
One of the most desirable Italo-American specials, featuring amazing pedigree and virtually unlimited appreciation potential.