Lot 054: 1961 AUSTIN-HEALEY 3000 MKII 2+2

Converted to right-hand drive following its importation from California in 1989, 'XSV 577' was reportedly treated to an extensive restoration / upgrade programme by Murray Scott-Nelson of Scarborough some seven years ago. Underpinned by a brand new chassis, the Big Healey is said to have been assembled using "a high-ratio steering box, new wiring loom, competition anti-roll bar, new stub axles / hubs, competition rear-shocker brackets / strengthened front brackets, competition shockers, new front discs, competition pads / drum linings, nylon suspension bushes and fresh 72-spoke wire wheels". Apparently further benefiting from "an overhauled gearbox / back axle, balanced propshaft / UJs, competition overdrive, new radiator, Kenlowe fan and new petrol tank", its fuelling needs were met by "twin Bendix pumps and Malpassi filter / regulators". While, inside the 3000 gained "a Moto-Lita woodrim steering wheel, Stack electronic rev counter and new leather seats". Apparently refreshed in 2004, its 3-litre straight-six engine boasts "a big-valve gas-flowed cylinder head, lightened flywheel, baffled sump, competition clutch, uprated oil pump, oil pressure release valve, improved crankshaft vibration damper, competition chain tensioner / timing chain, Piper road / rally camshaft, oil cooler, full-flow canister filter, Cosworth forged pistons, tubular exhaust manifolds, twin side-exit pipes and triple Weber 45 DCOE carburettors on an upswept magnesium manifold". Understood to have covered a comparatively small mileage following its engine refurbishment but some 20,000 miles since the rest of the work was completed, 'XSV 577' had the distinction of finishing second-in-class to a Ferrari 275 GTB on the Manx Classic a few years ago. Described by the vendor as being in "good overall" condition, it is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until July 2008 and old FIA papers. Although, recorded as the subject of accident damage during August 1992, we have chosen to offer this Austin-Healey for sale due to the nature and extent of its restoration in 2001.