What started out as a raw sports car in the best British tradition became increasingly refined over the years, yet lost none of its prowess—in fact, far from it. The bloodline started in 1952 with the brawny and elemental 4-cylinder Austin-Healey 100, a genuine but affordable true 100 MPH sports car pitched at the chasm between MG T series Midgets and the Jaguar XK120. The 100-6 of 1956 added 6-cylinder power, and in 1959, the “Big Healey,” as it is familiarly known, gained its largest engine, the 2912cc overhead-valve 6, hence the 3000 designation. Along its evolutionary path, as its speed increased so did its refinements, including external locking door handles, better weather protection and a much improved cabin with padded dash covering. Importantly, the 3000 also introduced front disc brakes. The initial 3000 MkI, running on twin SU carburetors, pushed out 124 HP, but the 3000 MkII of 1961 was rated at 132 HP with its triple-carb setup, which on the road translated into a top speed nudging 115 MPH. The reason for mentioning that is that this 1961 3000 MkI has been uprated by fitment of a more powerful triple-SU MkII engine (Engine No. 29E/RU/ H736). To take most advantage of that, it’s 4-speed manual gearbox also comes with the optional overdrive, effectively adding a tall fifth gear for relaxed high-speed touring. The BN7 designation of this Healey Ice Blue car with dark blue interior, demountable convertible top and tonneau cover denotes that it is the relatively rare two-seater, of which just 2,825 were built, compared with a run of 10,825 BT7 2+2s. Coming from a private collection in which it has resided since 1992, this 3000 MkI BN7 is sensibly provided with Pyrotect racing lap belts. The knock-off wire wheels, in this case chrome finished and wearing Michelin tires, were a popular factory option as well. It shouldn’t be forgotten that it was with the 3000 MkI that Austin-Healey notched up some of its most memorable competition successes, perhaps most notably winning the car-breaking 1960 Liege-Rome-Liege Rally with Stirling Moss’s sister, Pat, at the wheel.
