Lot 40: Austin-Healey 3000 MkII

Introduced in 1961, the MkII version of Austin-Healey's highly successful 3000 model was visually distinguished by its vertical radiator grille bars and revised front air intake. Sharing the same basic chassis design as its predecessor - independent front suspension, live rear axle and disc/drum brakes - it enjoyed superior performance thanks to the adoption of triple SU carburettors. Available in two-seater (BN7) or 2+2 (BT7) guises, it was fitted with wire wheels and adjustable front seats as standard while options included overdrive for its four-speed manual gearbox and a detachable hardtop roof. This is a very well-known and special car, originally the Austin Motor Company Home Sales demonstrator, known as `Blue DON'. Registered on 22nd June 1961, it was the personal transport of Donald Healey until 1963 before being sold to a privateer for rallying some four years later. In 1980 it was acquired by Healey guru Allan Cameron, modified for race use and was one of the first cars to race in the Healey Drivers International Series during the early '90s taking in Silverstone, Dijon and Nurburgring. It was returned to road use in 1994 with a total repaint and refit in 1996. The current, fourth, owner acquired it in 2004, and has used it for touring, including three trips Le Mans. "Selling as kids have outgrown the rear seats!" he says. It retains its Special Demonstrator equipment - Halda Speedpilot and Restall reclining seats, DMH Co wood-rim steering wheel and works development triple HS6 carburettors. It is currently equipped with bumper overriders and side sports exhaust, and has reputedly still covered less than 68,000 miles. As well as V5C and current MOT, `700 DON' comes with Halda Speedpilot instruction manual, FIA Papers and HSCC Vehicle Identity Form, plus a significant history file including Heritage Certificate, original log book, tax discs and several concours certificates and rosettes. A rare chance to acquire a very special, and beautifully presented Big Healey. PLEASE NOTE: This vehicle has an MOT until July 2009.