Lot 006: 1963 AUSTIN-HEALEY 3000 MKIIA

Introduced in February 1962, the 3000 MKII 2+2 'BJ7' model (unofficially known as the MKIIa) offered much of the raw character found in earlier Big Healeys but with the addition of new creature comforts and several chassis design refinements. Thus, the 'BJ7' pioneered luxuries such as wind-up windows, swivelling quarter-lights and a fixed convertible hood. Its independent wishbone front suspension gained stiffer coil springs and it benefited from an improved, more direct steering box. The manual with overdrive (6-speed) transmission gained a new case, and the 2912cc, straight six engine switched to a twin carburettor set-up. With a reputed 132bhp and 170lbft of torque available performance was suitably impressive. The American magazine 'Sports Car Illustrated' noting with some delight that the speedometer needle could be wound beyond its final 120mph marking. To cope with such antics, Girling front discs and generous rear drums were fitted as standard. Finished in green over cream with black rexine upholstery, this particular example is said to have undergone some restoration work during 1982 including "a colour change and some MKIII engine specification upgrades". Raced for a couple of seasons by Mr Ruffell, 'ANH 143A' entered the current ownership on May 14th 2002. Since converted for use on historic rallies, it reportedly benefits from "a sump guard, roll cage, internally rerouted pipework, rally seats, harnesses, fire extinguisher and trip meter etc". A veteran of Le Jog, the Rally of the Tests and numerous Historic Rally Car Register (HRCR) one-day events, the sportscar was repaired by the Northern Healey Centre of West Castleford (Yorks) following an off-road excursion in November 2003 that apparently saw it "overshoot a 90-degree bend and slide into a gate post at 20mph". Described by the vendor as being in "fair to good" overall condition, 'ANH 143A' rides on wire wheels. Commenting that the engine "shows 40psi when running" but suffers from "a small oil sump leak", he further notes the presence of "some minor bubbling to the door bottoms" and "poor carpets". A potentially inexpensive entry into the world of historic rallying or simply an engaging road car, this well campaigned Big Healey is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until October 2nd 2007 and historic class (free) road tax valid until September 30th 2007.