Description
Kelham Hall | Newark, Nottinghamshire
Viewing: Tues 16th June from 12pm
Auction: Wed 17th June from 9am
Location: Main Street, Newark, Nottinghamshire NG23 5QX
1960 Austin-Healey 3000 Mark I BT7
Tuned by Denis Welch
Estimate
£34, 000 - £38, 000
Registration No: 1433 BT
Chassis No: HBT76281
MOT: Exempt
An original British-market example
Previously treated to a 'fast-road' specification engine overhaul by leading specialist Denis Welch
The recipient of a complete repaint in duo-tone light metallic blue and white in recent years
The star of the 1952 London Motor Show, the 'Big Healey' would enjoy fantastic success and steady development, with the early four-cylinder cars giving way to the 100-Six in 1956, which in turn was replaced by the first of the 3000s in 1959. By now the engine capacity of its straight-six had risen to 2, 912cc and the power output to 124bhp—sufficient to grace a standard car with a 0-60mph time of 11. 4 seconds and a top speed of around 114mph. There was also the option of Laycock de Normanville overdrive for the four-speed gearbox and braking had been improved by the adoption of discs at the front. There were two body options available—a two-seater (BN7) or an occasional four-seater (BT7). By the time the Mk. I 3000 was superseded by the Mk. II in 1961, a total of 2, 825 BN7s and 10, 825 BT7s had been produced.
A strong and athletic car even in standard tune, this Austin-Healey has been turned into an even more formidable performer following a past engine overhaul to a more powerful specification. A desirable Mk. I BT7 two-plus-two model, ‘1433 BT’ was originally built in January, 1960, as a right-hand drive, home-market car, painted Healey Blue with Blue trim and hood. Its equipment included disc wheels, a heater, a Black hardtop, an adjustable steering column and overdrive, and it was despatched for sale through Cornelius Parish Ltd. of Kingston-upon-Hull.
Although little subsequent history is known, ‘1433 BT’ was in use during the late 2010s, and was MOTed annually with no advisories between 2016 and 2018, when, of course, it became exempt. At some stage in the past, it received extensive upgrades through the well-respected Austin-Healey tuning specialist Denis Welch Motorsport, which included the complete overhaul of the engine to a super sports specification. Among the uprated parts are a high-lift cam, an alternator, a spin-on oil filter, a six-branch manifold, a side-exit exhaust, and competition overdrive. It has been poly-bushed and is said to “drive superbly” on 72-spoke wheels. All-alloy wings have been fitted, and in recent years it received a new hood frame and side screens. Our vendor purchased the Healey in March, 2023, and after effecting some light refurbishment and coating the underside with Dinitrol, has proceeded to enjoy it when time and weather have allowed.
Still a good-looking machine when stationary and a thrilling ride when in motion, this lovely Big Healey is supplied with the current V5C, recent MOT history, a BMIHT certificate, invoices from AH Spares, Denis Welch Motorsport and other specialists, and some technical information and maintenance data.
