Classic Car Overview
When Donald Healey unveiled the first Healey Hundred prototype in 1952 he did so with both confidence and risk. In the years following World War II Donald Healey focused on building high-quality low-volume sports cars powered by Riley engines and sold under his own name including the Silverstone Elliott and Tickford models. But by the early 1950s his partnership with Nash was faltering supplies of Riley engines were dwindling and the financial future of the Donald Healey Motor Company depended on finding a new path forward. What followed was a fateful meeting with Leonard Lord head of the newly formed British Motor Corporation. Lord still seeking redemption after the commercial failure of the Austin A90 Atlantic saw in Healeys prototype a chance to re-enter the American market with a sporting image. The resulting collaboration led to one of the most successful British sports cars of the postwar era.What began as the Austin-Healey 100 quickly evolved in response to demand for greater performance and refinement. By 1956 the original four-cylinder engine was replaced by BMCs smooth torquey C-Series inline-six and the new model-dubbed the 100-6-marked the birth of what would become known affectionately as the Big Healey. In 1959 the final evolution of the original roadster shape arrived as the 3000 Mk I. With its enlarged 2.9-liter engine improved gearbox and front disc brakes the 3000 offered a substantial increase in drivability and performance without compromising the raw elemental appeal that defined earlier models. Available in two configurations-the two-seat BN7 and the 2+2 BT7-the Mk I offered genuine touring capability while maintaining the character of a true open British sports car.This 1961 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk I BT7 was the recipient of a full nut and bolt restoration completed in 2010 by the respected marque specialists at British Motor Corporation. The restoration was completed to extremely high standards and was used very sparingly since and today still presents as very fresh. Beautifully finished in black it is a fabulous color choice to display the Healeys crisp and clean lines. The brightwork remains exceptional and the car is fitted with Vredestein sport classic tires and knock-off chrome wire wheels a hallmark of the British sports car.The red vinyl interior with black piping offers a dramatic contrast evoking the classic red-and-black color schemes that became synonymous with postwar British sports cars. The cockpit features correct instrumentation and switchgear along with a gorgeous wood-rimmed steering wheel perfect for spirited driving. A clean functional dashboard layout caps off the overall fit and finish which reflects the quality of the restoration while showing careful preservation in the years since.Under the bonnet the 2912-cc inline-six delivers 124 horsepower through a four-speed manual gearbox with overdrive. No aspect of the car was neglected during the restoration exampled by the correctly detailed engine bay and tidy undercarriage. All BT7s were factory equipped with front disc brakes offering confident stopping power to match its ample torque and strong midrange performance. A recent service has been performed to ensure the car is ready for immediate touring enjoyment. Supporting documentation includes the original restoration contract and records from prior ownership confirming the depth and quality of the work performed. With its sharp cosmetics superb mechanicals and attention to detail this car stands apart from more casually restored examples-it has the substance to match its style.Confident charismatic and utterly classic this 3000 Mk I BT7 captures everything enthusiasts love about the Big Healey. Offers welcome trades considered.For additional details please view this listing directly on our website https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7895-1961-austin-healey-3000/
