HISTORY OF THE AUSTIN-HEALEY 3000
The Austin-Healey story began with Donald Healey's visionary Healey
Hundred, unveiled at the 1952 Earls Court Motor Show. Austin
leadership immediately recognized its potential, and a partnership
was formed overnight at London's Dorchester Hotel-launching one of
the most iconic British sports car marques of the era.
As the line evolved, the simple four-cylinder roadsters grew into
the more refined and powerful six-cylinder grand tourers. By the
mid-1960s, the Austin-Healey 3000 had reached its zenith. The final
iteration, the Mk III (BJ8), offered the most luxurious interior,
roll-up windows, improved torque, and beautiful burl walnut dash
trim. Widely regarded as the "last of the big Healey's," the BJ8
remains the most sought-after of the range.
THE MOTORCAR OFFERED The Austin-Healey 3000 Mark I (BT7) featured
here is finished in a striking dual-tone color combination of
Colorado Red over Black coves. According to the accompanying
British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate, this example was
completed at the Abingdon, England works on July 18, 1960, and
dispatched to Fort Worth, Texas just 10 days later.
Interestingly, the certificate documents the car's original color
scheme as Ivory White over Black coves with a red interior and
black convertible top. While it now rides on a beautiful set of
knock-off chrome wire wheels, it was originally delivered with
steel wheels.
IT'S ALIVE! acquired this BT7 from a Nevada-based owner several
years ago, after which it was retained by IT'S ALIVE! owner Jeff
Homsher as a personal driver at his Michigan property. During his
stewardship, the car was enjoyed as intended-further validating its
roadworthiness and overall usability-before being brought back to
St. Louis for servicing and sale.
Following its return, IT'S ALIVE! has serviced the car, fitted
replacement chrome bumpers, and installed a new folding convertible
top. Having undergone a color change and wheel upgrade, it is
evident that this example benefited from a high-quality restoration
prior to our ownership.
Today, approximately 6,000 miles are shown on the odometer, a
figure that is believed to represent mileage accrued since
restoration. The "Big Healey" performs wonderfully, delivering an
engaging and authentic British motoring experience while retaining
its matching-numbers engine and 4-speed manual gearbox with
overdrive.
IT'S ALIVE! is pleased to offer this well-sorted Austin-Healey 3000
Mark I, complete with desirable features, matching numbers, and
supporting documentation. If you're ready to become its next
caretaker, please call us at 314-710-6600 or email
[email protected].
