The Austin Healey is the bigger and more desirable car to come from the British Leyland stable, introduced in 1959, the 3000 was a ladder chassis with body on top, this gave it great rigidity which translated to better road handling. Just one of many reasons these cars have enjoyed a passionate enthusiasm from drivers since their conception. 

Healey’s sold best in America where the straight six up front, driving the rear wheels, timeless British styling and later model options of a 2+2 had the Americans going crazy over them. Since then the big Healey’s have enjoyed a wealth of success in motorsport and their status has been consolidated many times over. 

Today, Austin Healeys are still loved by a good enthusiastic owner’s base and with good aftermarket support. Rose tinted spectacles on or off, the Austin Healey is a legendary car from a golden age of motoring and it will continue to demand the love and admiration of generations to come. 

 

Owned by the current owner for 50 years (since 1972) with the car, which is an original UK RHD example, being first registered on the 7th of May 1962. The Healey comes from a fantastic collection starring the likes of a Mk1 Lotus Cortina, a Dino and a Maserati Mistral, but the big Healeys are the current owner’s true love. 

Originally blue with a white insert, it was repainted in ‘Jaguar Red’ in 1973 and in 2010 it was booked into a body shop for a blow over when unfortunately, the owner sadly passed away. This meant that the car came out and went into storage where it has sat to this day, hence the paint dust covering the engine and bay. 

The Healey was used mainly for Classic Car shows during the summer periods over the years and the extremely low mileage of 68,347 is believed to be genuine. The car comes with a current V5 and original ‘buff logbook’ in addition to the registration book covering 1962-1968, MOTs from 1977 to 1997, and a collection of receipts for upkeep throughout the 70s - 80s.

The interior of the Healey is black leather with black carpet and trim, a great contrast to the Jaguar red exterior. It is in need of a full going over but it is reported to all be complete and present. 

The leatherette dash doesn’t look to be too far gone and the seller reports it could be saved. The dials, switchgear and trim is all present including the three-spoke steering wheel with central boss and the car even has its original ignition key. There is a new carpet set to come with the car and the door cards are currently in the boot along with the badges and chrome work. 

 

As you can see from the photos, the car was in the process of being stripped down ready for its paint refurb when it was stored and now remains in such a condition. The Healey might look like the perfect base from which to build a fantastic looking Hotrod or the start of a restoration, either way the body panels are all present and correct and what little damage or corrosion is present, all looks to be repairable. 

The whole car would need to be cleaned from the paint dust to see what you’re working with and the filler on the driver’s wing might need re-working. Door gaps appear to be tight and uniform, and the seller reports the doors open and close without any drop. The seller also reports that all body panels appear to be surprisingly solid underneath and that much of the bodywork and trim is salvageable with minimal effort.

A 2912cc, straight 6, fed by 3 SU HS4 Carburettors and mated to a four-speed manual with overdrive. The engine is reported original but has not been started for a decade or more. 

Bidders should assume the mechanics of the Healey would need an overhaul before the car is to see the dizzying speeds its capable of again. From the reports of how well this car has been treated during its life however, you might be safe to assume that this could be a pleasant and enjoyable refurbishment experience. The same goes for the car’s driveline, suspension and braking system but the exhaust is a stainless-steel item so might be easier to save.

Despite being up for sale as a restoration project, the Healey presents as an enticing prospect. An original UK RHD reported matching numbers car, with only 2 owners (same one for the last 50 years) and evidence of a pampered life with a loving owner. 

Austin Healey’s still enjoy a strong club scene and aftermarket support and we’re sure the community would be interested in seeing what the new owner achieves with this project base.

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.*