Vehicle Description
As the first significant update of Donald Healey's tremendously
successful Austin-Healey 100, the 100-Six, alternatively known as
the 100-6, arrived in September 1956. Answering the call among
Healey enthusiasts for more power and all-around drivability,
especially in Healey's all-important North American markets, the
100-6 most notably heralded a twin-carbureted version of the Austin
Westminster's 2,639-cc 'C-Series' inline six-cylinder engine.
Expert tuning by Geoff Healey, Eddie Maher, and Harry Weslake
maximized 100-6 performance and other updates included a slight
streamlining of the body, a wider and lower oval-shaped radiator
grille, the addition of a fashionable and functional hood scoop,
and a revised cockpit. A slight two-inch wheelbase extension
provided room for a pair of occasional rear seats in the BN4 2+2,
which shared its 92-inch wheelbase with the two-seat BN6 for 1958
and 1959. The definitive 3000 Mark I line debuted in 1959, complete
with a larger-displacement 2,912 cc six-cylinder powerplant,
improved gearbox, and new disc-type front brakes. Two models were
offered initially, comprising the BN7 two-seater and Grand
Touring-oriented BT7 2+2 with occasional seating for two additional
passengers. Known among enthusiasts as the "Big Healey" following
the 1958 introduction of the Sprite, the 3000 line continued in
progressively improved BJ7 Mark II and BJ8 Mark III variants
through the eventual end of production in early 1968. The
Austin-Healey 3000 enjoyed strong results in competition,
particularly on the notoriously tough European long-distance
rallies. Among its many racing triumphs, the '3000' cut a swath
through the opposition, including back-to-back outright wins in the
grueling Alpine Rally (1960-61), going on to capture the
Liege-Rome-Liege and Austrian Alpine Rallies - both during 1964.
Highly prized as a definitive British sports car - even by today's
jaded standards - the "Big Healey" continues to be as enjoyable and
effective today as when new on racing circuits, classic rally
stages, and of course, winding back roads. This highly appealing
1963 Austin-Healey 3000 is a high-specification "BJ7" Mk II
two-seater, which introduced such desirable updates as a more
tractable twin-carburetor engine, wind-up glass side windows for
vastly improved all-weather comfort, and subtle yet highly
effective styling tweaks. According to the accompanying British
Motor Industry Heritage Trust certificate, it is an original
left-hand drive North American Export model produced to USA
specification. Following production during mid-October 1962, it was
despatched to the United States on 25 October 1962. Factory-fitted
equipment included wire wheels, an adjustable steering column,
whitewall tires, an ashtray, laminated windscreen, overdrive, and a
speedometer calibrated in miles-per-hour. As offered, this
outstanding example clearly benefits from a complete "nut-and-bolt"
rotisserie restoration, finished in British Racing Green over a tan
leather interior. Tasteful accents include a newly fitted black
convertible top in factory-correct black vinyl, gleaming
brightwork, large twin Lucas driving lamps, and "knock-off" chrome
wire wheels mounting Pirelli P3000 black wall radial tires. The
handsomely restored cockpit is inviting and quite luxurious,
suiting the Healey's Grand Touring ethos, featuring natural tan
leather upholstery showing little, if any, wear, complemented by
dark brown deep-pile carpeting and a later BJ8-type dash with
burled walnut panels with a period-style wood-rimmed steering
wheel. A lusty twin-carbureted 2,912 cc inline six-cylinder engine
delivers ample power in concert with the four-speed manual gearbox.
Speed, economy, and driving ease are nicely enhanced by a
factory-fitted Laycock overdrive. Restoration photos, recent
service records, and the aforementioned BMIHT certificate document
this wonderful and immensely enjoyable "Big Healey." Very well
restored, maintained, and presented, this 1963 Austin-Healey 3000
Mk II will provide an ideal entry to many shows and with its
renowned driving dynamics, it will surely provide an enjoyable and
sporting experience with every drive, consistent with its
incomparable heritage. Offers welcome and trades considered For
additional details please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7231-1963-austin-healey-3000-mkii/