Austin-healey 3000
As a MKII upgraded with a MKIII engine, this isn’t one for the purists – but it may tempt a keen driver, says Dale Vinten
Alot of 3000s were exported to America and this particular example found its way to Canada, returning to UK shores in 1997. It’s a MKII 2+2 convertible fitted with the more powerful MKIII engine, giving the best part of 150bhp.
The car was fully restored, including the chassis, in the Nineties and the body panel fit is outstanding with the bright red paint retaining a shine that belies the age of the restoration.
All the chrome trim is in great condition with no weathering or pitting; the only issue we could find was some age-related wear to the driver’s door handle. The red paint extends to underneath the car, which is also in fine shape, and there is not a single spot of rust to be found anywhere.
The original chrome wire wheels are flawless and are fitted with Continental Contact tyres, all of which show even wear and good tread depth.
The interior matches the rest of the car, being in superb overall condition. The black leather seats with red piping are wearing incredibly well and are firm yet comfortable. Door cards and carpets look fresh and the dashboard has no signs of fading, cracking or peeling. The wooden Moto-lita steering wheel shows little sign of wear. The roof and tonneau cover are an excellent fit and blemish-free, while the cabin remains dry and free from any evidence of water ingress.
All the instrumentation operates as it should. Water temperature goes from 170°F on first start-up to 180°F after a good run, while oil pressure reads 20psi at idle rising to 40psi under load, all indicating a healthy engine. The overdrive switch on the dash works and is a desirable option.
All mechanical components appear to be in great condition. The rear leaf springs and front coils are not sagging or cracked, the brake discs and pads all have plenty of life left and we could find no evidence of fluid leaks from either the engine or drivetrain. Under the bonnet it’s clean and tidy with no hose deterioration. The twin SU carburettors operate perfectly and the exhaust note from the six-cylinder engine is absolutely fantastic.
The car behaves impeccably on the road. Throttle response is excellent and power delivery is wonderfully smooth throughout the rev range. Steering is a tad heavy at parking speeds but lightens up on the road and is direct with no play. The car handles confidently with ample grip and minimal body roll in corners. The gearlever has a bit of a loose quality to it, but the gearbox itself is tight and gear selection is positive. The clutch is strong with no slipping.
This ’Healey comes with a British Motor Industry Heritage Trust certificate and extensive history folder showing thousands spent at specialist garages, including over £4000 in 2009 for, among other work, a new unleaded cylinder head. With the more powerful MKIII engine and the charms of the earlier BJ7 convertible, this 3000 is an appealing combination. It’s maybe not one for the purists but, after that full restoration, we can’t fault it.