Highlights
- A very usable example that’s in very good overall condition
- The interior has been retrimmed to a high standard
- We’re informed that it has been serviced regularly in present ownership
- Extensive history file including heritage certificate and restoration photos
- UK Registered
The Appeal
Winning its class in numerous rallies and circuit races across the globe, the Austin Healey 3000, or ‘Big Healey’ as it was known, was one of the most successful British sports cars of the 1960s. With the launch of the MkIII in 1964, Austin upped the horsepower from 136 to 150, as well as standardising servo-assisted brakes. Here we have what’s referred to as a MkIII Phase II example which dates from 1965.
Supplied new to Canada, this left-hand drive Big Healey was subsequently registered in the USA, Ireland and Great Britain although it now resides in Portugal. It has reportedly been serviced regularly throughout present ownership and benefits from a recent interior retrim. In very good condition for its age, with a few imperfections here and there, this is a very usable example that we;re sure the new owner will want to drive as much as possible.
The History and Paperwork
- Originally supplied to Canada
- Left-hand drive
- Previously registered in the US, Ireland and the UK
- Restoration work commence in the UK in 2011 although was never quite completed owing to the deterioration of the then owner’s health
- The work was completed by David Golding Classic Cars who then then sold it
- Still wearing UK number plates
- Currently located in Portugal
- Accompanied by a substantial history file
- An account of the car’s history since 1992 is supplied
- British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certification present
- Confirmation of year of manufacturer
- Numerous invoices for parts from AH Spares Ltd as well as other marque specialists
- A selection of workshop and operation manuals present
- Various registration documentation accompanies the car
- Photographic record of previous bodywork restoration
- The present owner acquired the car at auction in 2018
- We’re informed that the car has covered around 3,000 kilometres in current ownership
The Interior
- Retrimmed to a high standard
- A new veneered dashboard was fitted by David Golding Classic Cars
- Smart black carpeting with protective rubber overmats
- All the instrumentation and switchgear presents really well
- Very little wear to the seat or door card upholstery
- Three-spoke Moto-Lita sports steering wheel in fantastic order
- We note the gear lever gaiter has come away at the base
- The boot space is well presented and holds a full-size spare wheel
This car’s interior is in lovely order and benefits from having been retrimmed to a great standard. There’s no excessive wear to any of the upholstery or any damage we could discern. We didn’t spot any later additions, or modifications, so it offers a fantastic period-correct driving experience.
The Exterior
- The bodywork restoration commenced in 2011
- Now a little patinated in places, but generally good overall and very straight
- We noticed some corrosion in the outer sills
- There’s a slight scuff at the nearside front
- The chromework exhibits some slight pitting, but nothing especially noticeable
- Slight corrosion to the inner edge of the boot lid
- The underside presents well overall
- Supplied with a tonneau cover which exhibits some wear but no notable damage
- The wire wheels were refinished while with David Golding Classic Cars and a new soft top was also fitted
- The roof remains in very good order and operates correctly
Green always looks just right on a ‘60s British sports car and this Austin Healey 3000 is of course no exception.
The paint continues to present well overall, with some small blemishes here and there. The bodywork too is smart, with a little corrosion beginning to make itself known in places. The roof was replaced in recent years and so remains in fine fettle. All the trim is smart, as are the wire wheels and their tyres.
The Mechanics
- 3.0-litre straight-six engine
- Four-speed manual gearbox
- The vendor informs us that the car continues to be serviced regularly
- Presents really well under the bonnet
- We’re informed that it performs well with no issues to report
There’s a reason the Big Healey achieved so much competition success in period and much of that was down to its strong engine and capable chassis. The MkIII ‘Phase II’ had more power than ever before, as well as some chassis enhancements to aid ground clearance. We’re informed this example is in fine fettle and has ample performance on tap. It is said to drive really well, with no known faults.
Summary
For fans of ‘60s British sports cars, the Austin Healey 3000 is likely towards the top of your wish list and this looks a great example to drive and enjoy as Austin intended.
With a large history file, retrimmed interior, replacement roof and healthy mechanicals, this is not one to miss.
BEFORE YOU BUY
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