Lot 386: 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. In 3000 form the rugged Austin six delivered 124bhp at 4,600rpm, good enough for a top speed of 114mph with the optional hardtop in place. Otherwise, the car remained much as the 100/6, though the more-powerful disc brakes were a welcome improvement. Unveiled in March 1961, the MkII version with re-styled grille and bonnet intake was the last 3000 available as a two-seater, the 2+2 option having been for years the more popular. Engine improvements in the form of triple SU carburettors and a revised camshaft liberated an extra 8bhp. 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-SU carburettors cut maximum output by 1bhp, yet thanks to the 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 right-hand drive MkIIA Convertible was imported into the UK in April 1990, possibly from South Africa. Finished in black over dark blue with re-trimmed dark blue leather interior, the car is offered with current road fund licence, MoT to January 2006 and Swansea V5 registration document.