Austin-Healey 3000 MkIIA

Launched to rave reviews in 1959, the 'Big Healey' has gone on to become perhaps the most iconic and sought after of all the hairy-chested British sportscars of the 1960s. Particularly popular on the North American market, the Austin-Healey 3000 (Mk I) introduced a number of improvements to the already successful 100-6. The change of model name heralded the more powerful 2,912cc BMC C-Series engine whose 124bhp propelled the car to a top speed of nearly 120mph.

Other improvements included front disc brakes, independent front suspension, wire wheels as standard, and a choice of either 2-seater (BN7) or 2+2 (BT7) body styles. Options included a detachable hardtop roof and overdrive transmission. The 3000 Mk I remained in production until the arrival of the triple-carb132bhp MkII in 1961, soon followed by a MkIIA with wind-up windows, a wrap-around windscreen and a convertible hood but just two carbs. In 1964 the final development of the range arrived, the Mk III, with power now hiked to 150bhp and a more luxurious cockpit with a walnut dash.

As its accompanying Heritage Certificate confirms, this particular MkIIA was built in February 1963 and was originally despatched to Germany but returned to the UK in November 1965. It has an interesting history, having been used by the Michelin Tyre Company to promote their Michelin XAS tyre in 1967 (a contemporary magazine advert in the history file shows DVE 515C in one of the Michelin ads). 

In latter years the car has been used twice on the ‘Rallye Charente International’ in 2006 and 2009, and is said to have performed faultlessly on each occasion. The thick history file contains the road book for both events. The car also comes with its original folding green log book and British Motor Industry Heritage Certificate.

Whilst the vendor would not call the car pristine or concours, it still represents amazing value for a big Healey that can be used and enjoyed without worrying about the odd parking dent or country lane scratch. The car is sold with a current MOT certificate that expires on 31st July 2013 and is due to be driven some distance to the sale.