Highlights

Highly regarded HMC MkIV continuation car
Believed to be the only one with 281bhp TVR ‘450’ 4.6L V8
One of less than 50 RHD cars
SE model with walnut trim, a/c and power steering
Recently serviced with a new MOT
Only 16,608 miles from new

The Appeal

If HMC is new to you, and with less than 170 cars built, it reasonably could be, then let's start with a clarification. This hand-built MkIV is not to be confused with Healey 3000 replicas and evocations. It’s the real deal - built with input from the Healey family; save for a last-minute trademark dispute, it would have been badged as a Healey.

The goal of Gloucestershire’s tiny Holmes Motor Company was to build an update of the original Healey, one with the handling, reliability and luxury of a modern sports car, but the charisma of the original. Looking at this late model car you’d have to agree they succeeded. Leather, walnut and even a/c mix with a cleverly re-imagined 3000 profile. With their grunty Rover engines, spaceframe chassis and excellent handling, these well-engineered, quality cars are well regarded by reviewers and the Healey community.

This car, however, is something even more special. Arguably it is the ultimate evolution of the 3000 idea because rather than being fitted with the 3.9L V8 of most HMCs it has a TVR ‘450’ 4.6L V8 beneath its snout. It provides 281bhp, a significant hike over the standard 3.9L HMC and nearly double that of the final Healey 3000. Indications are that it is the only one ever built.

The car is in extremely good condition. The paint is Porsche’s Midnight Blue while inside there is a SE-specification black leather cabin. Thanks to the low documented mileage of 16,608 miles, it is all nicely preserved and highly original. The vendor tells us that the car runs well and comes with recent service. The MOT adds further reassurance - it runs to July 2027 with no advisories.

The key to this HMC is that you likely won’t find another like it. As beautiful as the original, more comfortable than a Morgan and as usable as a modern classic, this HMC feels like the perfect roadster.

Key Information

Mileage: 16,608 miles indicated
Country of registration: United Kingdom
Technical inspection status: current MOT to 8th July 2027 with no advisories
Technical specs: 4.6-litre Rover V8 petrol (TVR '450' specification), five-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
Paperwork:: Large quantity of paperwork shows V5C

The Detail

Vendor states car is in very good condition and has been cherished throughout its life
Always garaged, taxed and insured for the road we are told
4.6-litre Rover V8 fuel-injected engine with TVR '450' tuning
Technical specification summarised below
Porsche Midnight Blue paintwork in very good condition
Front of car appears to show a couple of stone chips but not unsightly
Bodywork in good order and built to a high standard by HMC
Chrome deep dish wire wheels in good condition
Fitted with matching Avon tyres
Black folding fabric roof in good condition with clear rear screen
Black leather ‘SE’ specification interior showing few signs of use
Walnut veneer trim and black carpets
Bespoke switchgear and classic-style dials
Heated seats and a/c fitted
JVC face-off stereo
Recent service
No advisories on current MOT

Technical specification:

Rover V8 4. 6 litre fuel-injected engine tuned by TVR
5-speed manual all-synchromesh gearbox
Rear wheel drive with limited slip differential
Independent suspension all round
Disc brakes on all wheels
Centre lock 70-spoke chrome wire wheels
Stainless steel exhaust
Body constructed from high-impact reinforced laminates
Unstressed bolt-on outer panels
Tubular zinc-coated steel backbone chassis
Impact-absorbing bumpers, door pillars, sills and bulkhead
Body trim is stainless steel
Porsche Midnight Blue paintwork

Equipment and trim:

Power steering
Air conditioning
Full ventilation and heating system
Heated reclining leather seats
Mohair hood and hood cover
Electric windows and opening quarter lights
Walnut veneered dashboard
Full Connolly leather interior
Wilton carpet to interior and boot
Stereo sound system
Leather trimmed steering wheel
Adjustable steering column
Centre arm rest, storage tray and oddments shelf
Cigar lighter (useful for usb connections)
Dipping interior mirror
Laminated windscreen
Inertia reel seat belts
Comprehensive instrumentation
7 inch Lucas driving lights
Front wing vents
Thatcham immobiliser
Fuel cut-off switch

BEFORE YOU BUY

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✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

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✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

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