Highlights
- One of less than 200 factory-built HMCs
- Potent Austin Healey successor with 3.9litre V8
- Very rare specially built 2+2 model
- Only three registered keepers
- Everything works but scope to improve
- One of Britain’s best and rarest sports car
The Appeal
Were it not for a last minute trade mark dispute you’d be looking at a Healey MkIV. Engineered by Stroud specialist HMC in conjunction with Donald’s family, the new car was far more than a pretty homage. A TVR-like spaceframe chassis, thumping Rover V8 and hand-trimmed luxury interior all made the MkIV rather special.
Customers agreed. Demand was instant and so high that HMC could sell every one it built - and more. But, as can be the way with the British motor industry, trouble soon set in. The supply of Rover V8s dried up after less than 200 cars and HMC reluctantly had to call it a day.
The result, today, is a car that tends to fly under the radar but is highly regarded by those in the know. Owners hang onto them for obvious reasons, so very few hit the market.
Our advice then, would be not to miss this one. It is rather special too - quite possibly the only 2+2, specially built for restaurant entrepreneur Mario Budwig. It has only had three keepers during its life.
The current one acquired it in 2019 before putting the car into dry storing during lockdown. The vendor tells us that it runs well but would benefit from a service, possible recommissioning and check over. The overall condition is good but the roof shows some aging.
If you know, you know. And if you don’t, hopefully we’ve whetted your appetite. This is a great, classically-styled alternative to a TVR and a fitting successor to the Austin Healey 3000.
History and Paperwork
- First registered on 1st July 1996
- Three registered keepers
- Specially built for restaurant entrepreneur Mario Budwig in July 1996
- Purchased by the current owner in December 2019
- 2 ignition keys and two sets of door keys
- Dry stored since early 2020 due to COVID and unused since
- Consequently some recommissioning and servicing should be anticipated
- Last MOT expired 20th December 2020 with 99,220 miles showing with no advisories
- MOT history verifies the mileage
- Currently showing (1)01,260 miles
- Vendor reports that the MOT has not been renewed due to a non-functioning horn
The Condition
- Smart dark blue metallic paintwork showing few age-related marks
- High quality fibreglass bodywork in good order with no visible crazing
- Buyers should expect some exterior deterioration due to age, mileage and storage
- Factory standard car sitting on deep dish chrome wire wheels in good order
- Fitted with Dunlop tyres which appear to be in good condition
- No advisories for structure or tyres on last MOT
- Exterior fittings including chrome bumpers, trim and fittings all well kept
- Front and rear lights are well kept and appear undamaged
- Space saver wire wheel spare wheel in boot with factory knock-off kit
- Blue fabric hood in fair condition being watertight but showing small tears
- Roof rear perspect screen is clear but shows areas of damage in photographs
- Spaceframe lightweight chassis in good order with no MOT advisories on last test
- Very rare and possibly unique 2+2 interior layout with tan leather trim
- Front and rear seatbelts fitted
- High specification cabin with sports Recaro front seats and wood veneers
- Dark blue carpets in good condition through cabin and boot areas
- Interior is in good condition but shows minor signs of use in photographs
- Fitted with Panasonic CD, electric windows and HMC branded dials
- HMC factory Moto Lita wood-rimmed steering wheel
- Vendor reports that everything works
The Mechanics
- 3,948cc ‘Land Rover’ V8 with fuel injection and ECU
- 5spd manual gearbox with wooden gear knob
- Fitted with exhaust catalysers
- Reported to run well with no issues
- Vendor advises that car would benefit from service and check over due to lack of use
- We are told that the clutch and gearbox operate correctly
- No current MOT due to a non-functioning horn
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
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✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.
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or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. If requested, we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com
