Lot 216: 1960 Austin Healey 3000 MKI

The Austin Healey 3000 has endeared itself to enthusiasts the world over, not least for those who remember the sight and sound of this muscular British sports car roaring to spectacular success in international rallying. A development of the Austin Healey 100-6, itself born of the four cylinder 100, the 3000 was launched in March 1959. Like the 100-6, in either two seat BN7 or 2+2 BT7 guise, it used a simple but torsionally strong ladder frame chassis with Austin A90 independent coil spring/wishbone front suspension and a live leaf sprung rear axle located by Panhard rod. Front disc brakes were fitted for the first time. Under the bonnet the 100-6's 2,639cc engine was enlarged to 2,912cc and, via twin SU carburettors, it produced 124bhp at 4,600rpm with an impressive 162lb.ft torque at 2,700rpm. Mated to a four-speed gearbox and capable of 110mph (116mph with overdrive) and 0-60mph in 11.4 seconds, the 3000 received much praise for effortless performance and fine handling.This concours Ice blue Healey was manufactured on the 30th November 1960. The interior is finished in dark blue with white piping and as you would expect is in excellent condition. The car was purchased by the current vendor from legendary race driver Innes Ireland who's name appears on documentation supplied with the vehicle.The car has been lovingly maintained along with the other Healey's in the current owner's collection since its purchase in September 1990. The car was a purchased as a rust free example having been kept in a dry climate since manufacture. However in 1992 the car underwent a full documented restoration ensuring all original components were kept on the car with no replacement parts. This matching numbers car has all original body panels as fitted from new. The result of the restoration is stunning and even now the car is still winning concours events. Over the last few years JVS 302 has won numerous International concours events including the Healey Brooklands meeting in 2001, the 50th anniversary in 2002, Wyboston Lake 2004 and the Gaydon Healey weekend in 2006. The car has also been displayed on the Healey stand at Alexandra Palace in 2001 and 2004.As you would expect the car is garaged and has never suffered from rust or corrosion. Service work is carried out by Healey specialist John Chatham. Supplied with the car is a comprehensive history file including a V5 document, Motor Heritage Trust Certificate, log books, many bills and receipts and an original hand book signed by Margaret Healey. With the calibre of former owners and the condition this car is presented in you will struggle to find a better Healey.