1960 | Austin-Healey 3000 Mk I (BT7)

. Rarer BN7 two seater.

. Denis Welch upgraded engine.

. Current owner since 2000.

. Full rally specification including roll cage and timing units.

. Successfully competed in numerous European rally events including 1st in class at 2001 winter challenge.

The Austin Healey 3000 was introduced in July 1959. The cars were assembled alongside BMC’s MG models at its works in Abingdon with its bodywork being supplied by Jenson Motors. The “Big Healey” as the 3000 was nicknamed were powered by a 3-litre six-cylinder engine with twin SU carburettors. This produced impressive performance with a claimed 0-60mph of just 11 secs and onto a top speed of 115mph. With the Healey’s reliability and performance, the 3000 quickly established itself both on the racing circuit and proved very competitive on rally events.

The Austin Healey 3000 MK1 ‘BMC Works Replica’ offered at Autostorico is finished in Tartan Red with White hardtop and Black interior trim. Supplied new in 1960 to the North American market and specified with the following factory options: wire wheels, laminated windscreen, overdrive and miles per hour speedometer. Spending its early life in the USA before returning to UK shores in 1996 when it was converted to RHD. Purchased by its current owner in August 2000 the car underwent a no expense spared nut and bolt ground up conversion to full BMC works rally specification.

Work started with the engine being removed and sent to Denis Welch for a full upgrade and rebuild including fitting an alloy head, triple Weber carburettors along with rally cams. Attention then past to the bodywork with panels being replaced by aluminium before being resprayed. The gearbox and drive train were rebuilt along with overhauling the braking and suspension system, fitting a roll cage and sump guard, full electrical re-wire, whilst still retaining its dynamo and non-electronic ignition to satisfy much more stringent scrutineering at classic rally events. Other notable features include a fire extinguisher, Halda twinmaster timer, twin rally timers, bucket sports seats with five-point harnesses, intercom system, heated windscreen and spotlights.

Offered for sale with a current V5 registration document, a history file including numerous invoices and other related material.

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