Description
History:
One of the most successful sports car models from Great Britain is the Austin Healey. From 1952 to 1968, the Healeys were built in nine different variants and engine versions in Abingdon: BN1 and BN2 with 4-cylinder engines left the production line 14, 614 times, a total of 13932 examples of the BN4 and BN6 with the first 6-cylinder engines were produced and exactly 42, 926 of the 3000 series (BN7, BT7, BJ7 & BJ8) were built from 1959 to 1968. The example shown here is a true Briton with right-hand drive. First registered in the south of England in June 1962, the sports car had 3 owners, which is documented on the original English vehicle registration document. A Swiss national living in England took his Healey to Switzerland, had it extensively refurbished in 2012 and has driven the car to the present day.
Bodywork and paintwork:
The bodywork is very good, the underbody solid and preserved. The paintwork was renewed in 2012 and is in a well-kept condition today.
Interior:
The genuine leather interior was renewed, as was the carpet landscape. The soft top was also renewed and adapted to the linkage.
Engine and mechanics:
The ‘Big Healey’ shines with the power of a 6-cylinder engine with a displacement of 3 litres, which is why it is called the Austin Healey 3000. This engine was completely overhauled in 2014. Very much attention was given in the technology of this MK2, which is reflected in the optimised ignition system, an additional oil cooling system and an additional fan for hot days. Anyone wanting to drive long distances in the Healey will be grateful for the revised 2014 manual gearbox with overdrive.
Chassis:
Brakes and chassis were revised for the last veteran's test and show very good measured values on the test bench. The usual rubber silent blocks on the chassis were replaced with silicone mounts.
Driving experience:
Alongside the Jaguar E-Type, the Austin Healey is regarded as the most British and beautiful sports roadster ever. A great example with the right sound and impressive driving performance.
Recommendation:
This Mk2 is one of the very rare 3-carburettor models that was restored 12 years ago. Since the restoration, the Healey has been lovingly cared for and presents itself in a very honest and extremely healthy condition. In Ice Blue with the matching genuine leather interior, it is many a heartbreaker - and an attractive entry-level opportunity into the world of Big Healeys.
