1962 AUSTIN HEALEY 3000 MKII
The Austin Healey 3000 MKII, produced from 1961 to 1963, is a classic British sports car that epitomizes style and performance. With its sleek design and powerful engine, it quickly became a favorite among automotive enthusiasts.
The bodies were produced by Jensen Cars in West Bromwich and the vehicles were assembled at the old BMC Abingdon plant in Oxfordshire.
Powered by a 2.9-liter inline-6 engine, the 3000 MKII delivers an impressive 132 horsepower, allowing it to reach a top speed of around 115 mph. This combination of power and speed made it a formidable contender on both road and track.
The exterior of the 3000 MKII features classic British styling, with its smooth curves and chrome accents. The convertible top adds to its charm, making it a true head-turner wherever it goes. The interior, while simple and minimalistic, offers comfort and a driver-focused design.
Handling is a highlight of the 3000 MKII, thanks to its responsive steering and well-tuned suspension. It delivers a thrilling driving experience, whether cruising along scenic roads or participating in spirited driving sessions.
Its timeless design, performance capabilities, and rarity make it a valuable and desirable classic car. Whether you’re a fan of British automotive history or simply appreciate a beautifully designed sports car, the 3000 MKII is sure to impress.
ABOUT THIS SPECIFIC EXAMPLE
This specific Healey 3000 MKII is amongst its looks also an impressively documented example. The Healey comes with a large restoration file including pictures and invoices of the very impressive restoration.
Let’s start with the history of the car.
This particular Healey 3000 MKII is nothing short of a masterpiece, boasting an exceptionally rich history that is rarely seen with any other 3000. It’s a classic car with a great story.
The story of this Healey begins in 1962 when it first found its home with its inaugural owner, Mr. Larry McKitchens of Santa Paula, California.
However, this Healey’s journey didn’t stop in California. The car was crossing the ocean to Belgium, where it became the possession of Mr. Marchal.
In 2003, the Healey found its way to the Netherlands, marking the beginning of a remarkable chapter in its history. Upon its arrival, a restoration process was initiated, a true labor of love that would ultimately span nearly two years.
What sets this Healey apart is the extraordinary documentation of its restoration journey. A very extended report, almost 50 pages in length, stands as a testament to the dedication and great attention to detail that went into reviving this classic. Every day of the restoration was detailed recorded, from the moment it was acquired on Saturday, August 23, 2003, to the first time of filling the fuel tank after its extensive transformation on Monday, April 18, 2005.
This comprehensive restoration report not only highlights the passion of those involved but also serves as a treasure trove of insights into the process of breathing life back into a classic car.
Besides the extensive written report on the restoration, the car also comes with a huge photo book.
These photos show that no expense was spared to make the car as beautiful as possible.
As well as the exterior of the car, also the interior received a full overhaul.
In the end, the complete restoration took more than 1,300 hours, resulting in a great-looking and extremely impressive driving Healey 3000.
The car has now been painted in a beautiful bright red exterior colour which is combined with a black leather interior.
The previous owner decided to give the car a more racier look, by adding an original hardtop and racing steering wheel.
By adding the hardtop, the looks are even better in our opinion but the hardtop can easily be taken off and all weather equipment is with the car.
The original soft top and frame as well as the bumpers are coming with the car.
CONDITION EXTERIOR
As you might expect from such a thorough restoration, the exterior is in great condition. The paint looks very nice and shows no damage.
The attention to detail is great and it is clear to see that a lot of time an money has spend to make the car as beautiful as possible.
The wired wheels are new and therefore in a beautiful condition. Also the spare wheel is new.
The hardtop also shows great condition and provides the racing look.
The doors open and shut with ease, pointing to a properly restored body shell.
Besides the paintwork, also all chrome work looks amazing.
CONDITION INTERIOR
The beautiful display continues as you swing open the doors, exposing the beautiful black leather seats with red piping.
This same exquisite leather can be seen on the dash top, rear seats, and quarter panels, maintaining a harmonious and visually striking interior.
A pleasing visual continuity is achieved with the carefully coordinated black carpeting.
The interior shows a remarkable freshness, a true testament to the beautiful restoration work it has undergone.
All dials and clockwork shows a great working condition.
For an even extra racier look, a thicker leather steering wheel has been added. Also this shows no signs of damage.
One can find in the middle under the dashboard a tripmaster in order to drive rallies.
DRIVING EXPERIENCE
We have had the pleasure of adding and driving many Healey’s in our collection.
An Austin Healey is a guarantee of a great driving car. You can’t go wrong with an Austin Healey.
This example is no exception. It drives and sits great.
Due to the upgraded 5 speed gearbox (the original gearbox with overdrive is coming with the car) The shifting is extremely smooth and the ratio is the best possible. The 5th. gear makes the Healey a superb long distance driver as the revs drop drastically when selecting this gear.
A Healey 3000 lends itself perfectly to faster work on the track, but also for a daily drive or even a long distance holiday.
The seating position is pleasant and it really feels like you are driving something special.