Description
For sale: Austin Healey 3000 MKI (1960) fully restored
Model history:
The year 1959 marked a radical turning point in the history of the "Big Healeys". Succeeding the 100-6, the Austin Healey 3000 MK I (BN7 and BT7 series) immediately set a new standard: a perfect blend of brute displacement engine power and the timeless elegance of British design.
A Major Mechanical Evolution
The main innovation of the MK I lies under its long, refined bonnet. The switch from the 2. 6L engine block to the famous 2. 9L engine (2912 cc) radically transforms the car's behaviour.
Revolutionary braking: for the first time, the Austin Healey is equipped with front disc brakes, offering markedly improved safety and endurance.
Torque and flexibility: with about 124 hp, it becomes a formidable road car, capable of high-speed cruising with a six-cylinder howl that has become legendary.
The Balance of the Big Healey Design
Aesthetically, the MK I preserves the purity of its original lines while asserting its character. Available as a 2-seater (BN7) or 2+2 (BT7), it embodies the golden age of the English roadster:
Sturdy chassis with a low centre of gravity.
Characteristic horizontal-slatted grille.
Typically British interior blending leather and chrome instrumentation.
Competition Record
From its debut, the 3000 MK I shone on the most demanding circuits and rallies (Liège-Rome-Liège, Alpine Cup). Its reliability and power made it the favourite mount of private drivers as well as the BMC works team, forging an image of a "warrior" with a lady's persona.
History of this Austin Healey 3000 MKI for sale:
This Austin Healey 3000 MKI was delivered new in Philadelphia, USA, in December 1959.
In 1974, Mr Hutchins, living in New Jersey, became the owner. Then, in 1995, the car was imported to Belgium, where it changed hands without being registered or restored.
In 2018, Jos Jansen purchased it and carried out a complete restoration, documented by an extensive photographic dossier. Finally, in June 2021, its latest owner bought it and imported it to France to enjoy the roads of Calvados.
Bodywork
The car, originally delivered in Colorado Red, has been restored in black. Today it presents in flawless condition, with precise panel gaps and doors and bonnets perfectly aligned.
Moreover, the chrome trim shines and testifies to the overall quality of the restoration. It also comes with its hardtop, likewise restored, allowing year-round driving.
Upholstery and roof
In 2019, the interior was completely redone in the Netherlands in an elegant red shade and remains in excellent condition.
The black alpaca hood features new side-screens, thereby preserving the original equipment.
Engine and gearbox
This Austin Healey is a matching-numbers example. Its engine has been fully restored, as have the gearbox and overdrive.
The whole package runs smoothly and precisely, ensuring optimal driving pleasure. Moreover, the exhaust system is new, guaranteeing quiet and efficient operation.
Running gear and brakes
The Austin Healey 3000 MKI has front disc brakes, recently overhauled. Thus, braking is effective and perfectly straight-line.
The front suspension was completely rebuilt, delivering remarkable handling. Furthermore, the chassis behaves stably with no play or noise. Finally, the suspension works perfectly, and the car rides on chrome wheels with new tyres.
Big plus
This Austin Healey comes with its hard top, ideal for year-round use. In addition, it is accompanied by a complete folder of restoration photos, attesting to the quality of the work done.
Contact Cecil Cars
This Austin Healey 3000 MK I is a rare opportunity. With our expertise, it is ready to hit the road. Its aesthetic and mechanical condition is flawless.
Sale price: €100, 000
Contact us for a viewing and to review its complete file. Cecil Cars: Your partner for buying classic cars.
