Lot Ended
Description
1962
Austin-Healey 3000 Mk IIa (Big
Healey) BJ7; Performance improvements have been carried out along with
suspension upgraded; owned for the last 24 years by the current
keeper
This 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk IIa
(Big Healey) BJ7 was produced by
the Austin Motor Company Ltd at Abingdon in Oxfordshire and represents one of
the most desirable examples of the iconic Big Healey. Originally built as a
left-hand drive North American export model, the car is powered by its
characteristic 2,912cc six-cylinder overhead valve engine equipped with twin 1¾"
SU carburettors, producing approximately 130 bhp at 4,750 rpm. The car is fitted
with wire wheels, overdrive, an adjustable steering column, heater, laminated
windscreen and road speed tyres, all features that helped make the Healey such a
capable grand touring car of its era.
The car
left the production line in 1962 before being dispatched to the United States,
where it spent the early part of its life. It was later re-imported to the
United Kingdom and in 1996 was converted to right-hand drive while also
receiving restored paintwork. After returning to Britain, the vehicle was sold
to a relation of the current owner, from whom it was later
purchased.
During the present ownership,
considerable work has been undertaken by the vendor to improve and maintain the
car while preserving its classic character. Restoration work included the
replacement of floor pans together with new carpets and, more recently,
replacement of worn vinyl cockpit trim and seat covers with black and red
leather throughout. The engine and gearbox have been rebuilt, seat belts
fitted, and the electrical system upgraded with an alternator. New wheels and
tyres have also been installed. A number of sympathetic performance enhancements
have also been carried out, including oversized valves, MGA pistons, a
gas-flowed cylinder head, and a six-branch 2-inch exhaust system. The suspension
has been improved with uprated springs and shock absorbers together with a
stiffer anti-roll bar and bushes, providing sharper handling and a more
responsive driving experience while retaining the spirit of the original
design.
A great history file is included with the
car, documenting most of the work carried out by the current vendor over the
years, also 12 old MOT's, Hand Book, Heritage Certificate and Manuals providing
full provenance and insight into its meticulous maintenance.
The car was driven to site over a distance of more than 25 miles and
during inspection started, stopped, and ran as expected while being photographed
and recorded on video, demonstrating the usable and well-maintained condition of
this charismatic British sports car.
PLEASE NOTE: If you are planning
on spending more than £25,000 during this auction, you will need to increase
your spending limit by leaving more than one deposit. Please refer to your
account.
Contact
james.booth@brightwells.com