Donald Healey’s conception of an affordable, true 100 MPH sports car was first realized in 1952 with the Austin-Healey 100. Buoyed by sales success, particularly in North America, it quickly evolved into a more capable, refined and faster machine. 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 six, hence the 3000 designation. Other key enhancements included front disc brakes, plus a considerably more refined cabin with padded dash top. In 1961, for the 3000 MkII, a triple carburetor setup with revised camshaft increased power to 132 HP. With the optional overdrive fitted, as on this 1962 example, magazine road tests recorded a top speed of 114 MPH. It should also be noted that as the desirable overdrive operated on both third and fourth gear, it effectively created six forward ratios, greatly increasing flexibility and facilitating calmer high-speed touring. With its BT7 designation, this extensively rotisserie-restored, triple-carburetor MkII has the useful 2+2 accommodation, which adds further practicality, as does the optional Smiths heater. One measure of the restoration, performed by specialists Healey Lane of Oregon, is the triple plating of the chrome bumpers. Sold new to California, it’s also noteworthy that, unlike many Healey 3000s, it retains its original sheet metal. Liveried in British Racing Green with a tan leather interior and matching Wilton carpets, this comprehensively restored 3000 MkII rides on 15-inch chromed knock-off wire wheels. Though a deal more refined and potent than the original Healey 100, the 3000 retained its genuine sporting credentials, underlined by its hardy mechanicals which came into their own on the track and in car-breaking international rallies of the day, with laurels including a win in the brutal 1960 Liege- Rome-Liege Rally with Stirling Moss’s sister Pat at the wheel.
