Highlights

Subject to a comprehensive mechanical and body renovation in recent years
Complete with both hardtop & fabric folding roof
Well maintained with a number of invoices for parts and serving in recent years
Tonneau cover, side-screens & both original chromed bumpers available

The Appeal

Back in the 1950s and ‘60s, British car manufacturers would often turn to performance specialists in order to develop their range topping sports cars. Like John Cooper’s development of the humble Mini, Donald Healey was brought in by BMC to develop Austin’s new sporting roadster, which would go on to bear his name.

The 3000 is the most celebrated of the ‘Big Healeys’ and we’re delighted to offer this fantastic early example, dating from 1960. With powerful six-cylinder engines propelling Mk1 BT7s to a top speed of 115 mph, these cars immediately enjoyed competition success in rallies all over the world and sold strongly at home and abroad.

This particular BT7 was exported to the United States in left-hand drive and made its way to France from Michigan in November 2011. Since then, it underwent a comprehensive renovation, starting with the bodywork and followed by a mechanical overhaul. Well maintained ever since and now weathering in nicely, this supremely usable and very handsome Austin Healey is ready to be enjoyed by its next owner.

The History and Paperwork

Several invoices document recent servicing and parts procurement
Road registered in France, following import from Michigan USA in November 2011
Bodywork renovation was carried out from 2012 to 2013
The engine and electrical system, were overhauled in 2015 and the gearbox replaced
General mechanical overhaul carried out in 2021
The vendor informs us that a detailed independent appraisal of the car was carried out and can accompany the car should the next owner wish to have it

The Interior

Butterscotch upholstery in very nice condition with menial wear
Three-spoke, wood-rimmed sports steering wheel
The dashboard appears in great shape, as do all the instruments and switches
The carpet presents well overall with just a few marks
Practical coconut matting has been let into the footwells
The boot is still lined in period correct hardura-style matting
Scissor jack, wheel brace and wheel knock-off tool provided
Safety seat belt for both seats
Coupe-circuit

We like how this Healey’s interior has been prepared to be used, rather than to languish in a garage or concours lawn. The practical addition of coconut matting in the footwells makes a lot of sense, and the general light patina across the furnishing and controls makes this a car you wouldn't be afraid to use. It’s by no means scruffy either, as there’s no excessive wear to be found. We understand all to be in good working order, as the vendor does not report any faults with the cabin electrics or gauges.

The Exterior

Two-tone paintwork with white over butterscotch
Tonneau cover
Complete with both hardtop and folding fabric roof
The hardtop is in very good order overall and matches the car, with just a little perishing to the rear window seal
The fabric roof is affixed by draping it over a tubular steel frame - both are in really good order
Chrome wire wheels in excellent order overall
The car’s underside presents really well with minimal surface corrosion
Straight bodywork with goof panel alignment
One paint bubbling lower driver's door
Some spare brightwork, including bumper tops and overriders accompany the car as these are not currently fitted
Currently equipped with a auxiliary spot lamps which are in great shape
There is some pitting to the exhaust tips
Headlamp mesh guards provided
Monza fuel tank Opening
Catadioptres replaced with turn signals

With hardtop fitted, spot lamps adorning the nose and bumpers removed, this Healey looks ready to take on the Monte Carlo Rally. We’ve always loved the way these cars look, with their purposeful proportions and visually oversized wheels conveying a sense of muscularity.

Like the interior, the outside of this Healey is in a charming condition, is in excellent order for its age. Having received some bodywork attention around ten years ago, it has since weathered in nicely without accruing any signs of structural corrosion. Both roofs are in good order and provide you with three configurations in which you can enjoy this car.

The Mechanics

2912 cc straight-six
Five-speed manual gearbox, converted during the mechanical restoration (kit Toyota Supra)
Electronic Starter
Twin-SU carburettors
Presents well under the bonnet
We're assured that the engine starts readily, runs well and provides plenty of power
Selects gears smoothly through its replacement gearbox and reportedly brakes efficiently
Subject to a general mechanical overhaul in 2021
Original valve cover (green) available

Where the Healey really excelled was when it came to performance and the Mk Is are very impressive to drive, benefitting from the rigidity of a separate chassis and torque from a 3.0-litre straight-six.

Having been subject to several mechanical refreshes and new gearbox in the last decade, this Healey is said to be driving immensely well. The vendor does not report any issues and remarks that it is ready to be enjoyed.

Summary

For those seeking a ‘60s classic that will more than keep up with the pace of modern traffic, an Austin Healey 3000 makes a lot of sense. With a great parts support network and thriving enthusiast community, these are the sort of sports cars you can drive regularly and this early example is the perfect candidate. Very presentable and mechanically healthy, this is one you won’t want to miss.

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.*

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