Lot 514: 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 MkIIA Convertible

The enlargement of its C-Series six-cylinder engine to 2,912cc and the adoption of Girling front disc brakes differentiated the new-for-1959 Austin-Healey 3000 from the preceding 100/6. Otherwise, the car remained much as before, though the more-powerful brakes were a welcome improvement. Unveiled in March 1961, the MkII version with restyled grille and bonnet intake was the last 3000 available as a two-seater, the 2+2 option having been for years the more popular, while engine improvements in the form of triple SU carburettors and a revised camshaft raised maximum power to 132bhp. From November ’61 the 3000 was equipped with a new gearbox, a development which at last moved the gear lever to the centre of the transmission tunnel. In January 1962 the 2+2-only MkII Convertible (or MkIIA) appeared, boasting long overdue refinements such as winding windows, swivelling quarter-lights and fixed foldaway hood. The reversion to easier-to-tune, twin SUs cut maximum output by 1bhp, yet thanks to superior aerodynamics, conferred by its curved windscreen, the MkII Convertible contrived to be marginally faster than its immediate predecessor, reaching 116mph flat out. MkII production ceased in 1962 after 5,095 2+2s and 355 two-seaters had been built; though the Convertible continued until the introduction of the 3000 MkIII in 1963.
This left-hand drive 3000 MkIIA Convertible is offered for sale by a professionally qualified motor engineer who served his apprenticeship at Austin and spent 21 years with the company, where he worked in the Experimental Department and was sometimes called upon to service Healeys belonging to the firm’s directors. The vendor purchased the car in July 1991 and restored it himself over the succeeding years, keeping a photographic record and all bills relating to the rebuild. Work undertaken has included a total restoration of the chassis and engine, plus conversion of the latter to accept unleaded fuel. A desirable overdrive transmission model finished in Colorado Red with red-piped black leather interior, the car is presented in excellent condition in every respect and offered with the aforementioned rebuild documentation, current MoT/road fund licence and Swansea V5.