Beschreibung
For live auction by Webb's auction house.
2pm NZT, Sunday 3 December.
1963 Austin Healey 3000 Mk2
Engine: 29F-RU-H6186
Chassis: HBJ7-24989
The Austin-Healey, an automotive icon, has captured the hearts and imagination of driving enthusiasts across four generations. The story begins in 1952 with the release of the Healey 100 prototype at the London Motor Show, a collaborative effort between Donald Healey and BMC?s Leonard Lord. This affordable sports car, capable of reaching 100mph, was born out of a pre-existing plan, not a sudden decision to utilise surplus engines from the failed Austin Atlantic. Available for £850, the USA ordered $7million worth of stock immediately!
Donald Healey?s vision for the car was clear: a fast, affordable, easy-to-maintain vehicle. The car?s captivating body styling, created by Gerry Coker, remained intact as it evolved from 4- to 6-cylinder engines and gained sophistication. The Austin Healey 100-4 and its variations, known for their toughness, agility, and reliability, made a significant impact in rallying and sports car racing. Pat Moss, driving a 100-6 and a 3000 Healey, competed in epic road races like the Liége-Rome-Liége, describing the cars? power with admiration.
In 1959, Austin-Healey introduced the 3000, retaining the family charm of the 100-6 while incorporating improvements like Girling front disc brakes and an enhanced BMC C-Series 2, 912cc inline 6-cylinder engine, achieving a top speed of 114mph, even with the optional hard-top.
In 1961, the 3000 Mk II made its debut, featuring a restyled grille and bonnet intake and becoming the last two-seater 3000. With triple SU carburettors and a revised camshaft, the car?s output reached 131bhp at 4, 750rpm, complemented by a new gearbox. The Mk II convertible BJ7 Sports, introduced in January 1962, offered refinements like winding windows, a curved windscreen, swivelling quarter-lights, and a fully collapsible soft-top with a detachable rear window. Despite the loss of one carburettor, which cost only 2 bhp in performance, the improved aerodynamics compensated for it. The production of the Mk II ceased with the introduction of the 3000 Mk III in 1963.
The British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate accompanying this vehicle reveals that the car was built between 13 November and 18 November 1963, and it left the factory on 2 December of the same year. Originally, the vehicle was delivered new to Fiji and stayed there for two years before being registered in Auckland on 4 March 1965. Records show that up to 1974, there were a total of nine owners, excluding dealers. After that year, ownership becomes less clear, but there are indications that Tim Bailey of Continental Car Services held the car from 13 September 2002. Tim Bailey was a well-known figure in Auckland?s car industry and motor racing scene, although he sadly passed away at a young age in 2003.
Notably, in 2002, correspondence indicates that the Healey Shop Ltd of Mt Maunganui was entrusted with the restoration of the vehicle. This restoration process is extensively documented, spanning approximately two years and incurring significant costs. However, from this point until early 2022, the car was driven less than 1000 miles and primarily kept in storage, where it underwent some refurbishment due to its limited use.
The car?s appearance is quite striking, maintaining its original ivory white colour with a red leather interior and matching carpets. It boasts several notable features and characteristics:
? Equipped with 72 spoke chrome wire wheels (the spare wheel has 60 spokes).
? Features Laycock overdrive for improved performance.
? Includes rally guard vents, enhancing its vintage aesthetic.
? Equipped with near-new Michelin XZX 165/ 15 tyres.
? The original odometer reads 84, 000 miles.
? The front has an original badge bar.
? Lucas fog/ driving lights, possibly reproductions, are present.
? Comes with a Stayfast canvas hood complete with a tonneau cover.
? Equipped with mirrors on both fenders.
? Features a four-speed transmission for efficient driving.
? The car sports a leather-bound steering wheel for a classic touch.
The restoration work carried out by the internationally renowned Healey Shop is very accurate. Attention to detail, precision, and diligence are evident in every aspect of the vehicle. The door shut lines are impeccably precise, the factory VIN plate is correctly in place, and the chrome components have not been over-restored. The documentation includes photographs that depict the restoration process, along with a relevant sales brochure, two copies of the handbook, an after-market workshop manual, and a catalogue and marque book, providing a comprehensive insight into the car?s heritage and maintenance.
For anyone passionate about Austin Healey automobiles or considering a purchase, this car represents an exceptional example with a rich history in terms of both ownership and restoration. It?s a true delight to bring such a splendid vehicle to the market, and one can only imagine that Donald Healey himself would take great pride in this masterpiece.
The vehicle will be sold registered and with a current WOF.
Estimate: $110, 000-$125, 000 NZD
