1961 Austin-Healey 3000

HISTORY OF THE AUSTIN-HEALEY 3000

The Austin-Healey story began with Donald Healeys visionary Healey Hundred, unveiled at the 1952 Earls Court Motor Show. Austin leadership immediately recognized its potential, and a partnership was formed overnight at Londons Dorchester Hotel-launching one of the most iconic British sports car marques of the era.

As the line evolved, the simple four-cylinder roadsters grew into the more refined and powerful six-cylinder grand tourers. By the mid-1960s, the Austin-Healey 3000 had reached its zenith. The final iteration, the Mk III (BJ8), offered the most luxurious interior, roll-up windows, improved torque, and beautiful burl walnut dash trim. Widely regarded as the last of the big Healeys, the BJ8 remains the most sought-after of the range.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED
The Austin-Healey 3000 Mark I (BT7) featured here is finished in a striking dual-tone color combination of Colorado Red over Black coves. According to the accompanying British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate, this example was completed at the Abingdon, England works on July 18, 1960, and dispatched to Fort Worth, Texas just 10 days later.

Interestingly, the certificate documents the cars original color scheme as Ivory White over Black coves with a red interior and black convertible top. While it now rides on a beautiful set of knock-off chrome wire wheels, it was originally delivered with steel wheels.

ITS ALIVE! acquired this BT7 from a Nevada-based owner several years ago, after which it was retained by ITS ALIVE! owner Jeff Homsher as a personal driver at his Michigan property. During his stewardship, the car was enjoyed as intended-further validating its roadworthiness and overall usability-before being brought back to St. Louis for servicing and sale.

Following its return, ITS ALIVE! has serviced the car, fitted replacement chrome bumpers, and installed a new folding convertible top. Having undergone a color change and wheel upgrade, it is evident that this example benefited from a high-quality restoration prior to our ownership.

Today, approximately 6,000 miles are shown on the odometer, a figure that is believed to represent mileage accrued since restoration. The Big Healey performs wonderfully, delivering an engaging and authentic British motoring experience while retaining its matching-numbers engine and 4-speed manual gearbox with overdrive.

ITS ALIVE! is pleased to offer this well-sorted Austin-Healey 3000 Mark I, complete with desirable features, matching numbers, and supporting documentation. If youre ready to become its next caretaker, please call us at 314-710-6600 or email Sales@ItsAliveAuto.com.