Lot Ended
Description
1962
Austin-Healey 3000 Mk IIa (Big
Healey) BJ7; Performance improvements have been carried out along with
suspension up graded; currently 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 2912cc 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 cockpit trim. 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.
Contact
james.booth@brightwells.com