This is a stunning example of the ubiquitous Austin Healey sports car. Finished in a generous coating of Old English White and matched with superlative chrome embellishments. Of course, it looks great, and it should do as this has been a labour of love for the present owner.
Money, time and expertise have been lavished on this car, and although it was first restored when imported to the UK back in 1998 by the previous owner, the new Custodian wasn’t happy with it so it was done all over again and was completed to the standard you see it in now in 2017. A true ‘No expense spared’ vehicle.
The photographic evidence of the restoration, along with the invoices, certificates and awards reads like an episode of ‘This is Your Life’ for a car. Bought from Coys in 2014 as a restored classic that had been converted to RHD, and was used that year by the current owner. At the end of 2014, the car was taken off the road and treated to another full restoration involving several reputable Specialists and the owner himself resulting in the resulting near Concourse example.
The cockpit has been treated to a full retrim and the seats are of a delightful unmarked finish. The carpets are new and unworn and as close to showroom condition as could be. The dash is laid out as the factory intended and all the instruments are bright and clear. The door swabs are clean and unmarked and carry the correct furniture which is also bright and clean.
The hood has been tailor-made between the owner and his wife (they were both in the re-trimming business), and it fits beautifully. There is not only a hood tonneau but a full cockpit cover too. Finally, if that wasn’t enough, there’s a very handy bespoke dog cover that slots over the back seats! The boot is clean and contains an original spare wheel along with the correct period jack for the car.
The quality of the bodywork is plain for all to see. The panels have all been either painstakingly repaired or replaced and the shut lines are a sight to behold. The OEW colour scheme has a lovely deep shine and appears free of any discernable blemishes.
The same goes for the chrome embellishments, of which there are plenty. Each item is either new or made to appear new. The addition of some cute mirrors mounted on the quarter lights adds real charm. The doors close with a satisfying clunk as do the boot and bonnet.
The car has not been inspected underneath, but the photographs that were taken on the ground show that the underside has also been treated to a copious covering of rustproofing.
All the mechanical aspects of this car are exactly as the factory intended. The engine has been overhauled as has the gearbox and overdrive. The steering has all been restored and overhauled along with the braking system.
The car has not been test driven but during the photo session, the engine would jump into life straight from the button and settle into a rumbling tick-over. Once again the invoices and photo file show the level of work that the mechanics have undergone in recent years, right up to this year.
In simple terms, this has to be one of the nicest Healeys out there. Seldom do you have the opportunity to purchase a car that has had so much love and attention bestowed upon it. There is an attention to detail that has resulted in creating an almost accidental Concourse example.
It isn’t treated as a Concourse winner because it gets used, sparingly admittedly as it has only covered 1900 miles since completion in 2017. However, the quality of the restoration should be savoured and enjoyed by someone who can appreciate just what has gone into this delightful British icon.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
Car & Classic's secure payment system protects buyers and sellers. At the end of the auction, the winning bidder transfers payment into a third-party escrow account. Once the transfer of the vehicle is complete, both parties confirm they are happy with the sale and the money is released to the seller.
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1963 Austin Healey 3000
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