1961 Austin-Healey 3000 MK 1

The Austin-Healey marque's genesis was that of the Healey Hundred, shown originally by Donald Healey at the 1952 Earls Court Motor Show in London. While Austin was not involved...

The Austin-Healey marque's genesis was that of the Healey Hundred, shown originally by Donald Healey at the 1952 Earls Court Motor Show in London. While Austin was not involved in the concept, Board Chairman Leonard Lord saw the car and its reaction from the press prior to the public opening of the show. That evening a deal between the two men and their companies was formed at the famed Dorchester Hotel in London: giving birth to the Austin-Healey brand. The marque's sleek design and proper British Motoring set up resulted in strong sales throughout Europe and North America. With time powertrains evolved from inline four cylinders to straight sixes which grew from 2.6 to nearly 3 Liters by 1960. The 3000 "Mark 1" was offered in a two seater Sport Roadster version called the BN7, while the 2+2 BT7 version out sold the Sport model by nearly 4:1!

The Austin-Healey 3000 Mark 1 (BT7) featured here is finished in stunning "duotone" color combination of Colorado Red over Black Coves. Per the accompanying British Motor Industry Heritage Certificate this Austin-Healey 3000 was completed at the Abingdon, England works on July 18th 1960 and was and dispatched to Fort Worth, Texas 10 days later. Interestingly the Heritage Certificate lists the Healey's original color combination as Ivory White over Black Coves, with Red Interior and Black Convertible top. While the BT7 rides on a gorgeous set of "knock-off" Chrome Wire Wheels today, it was originally a steel wheel car. IT'S ALIVE! acquired the 3000 Mark 1 from a Nevada owner a few years ago and has since serviced the vehicle, fitted replacement chrome bumpers and a new folding convertible top. The recipient of a color change and a wheel upgrade, it is clear that this BT7 was treated to a high level of restoration prior to IAA's ownership. A mere 6,000 miles are present on the odometer today, a number which likely represents the total mileage accrued since restoration. Today the "big Healey" performs wonderfully, offering someone a proper British motoring experience while retaining its "matching numbers" engine 4-speed manual gear box with optional OverDrive. IT'S ALIVE! is pleased to offer this well sorted Austin-Healey 3000 Mark 1 with an assortment of desirable features, matching numbers and supporting documentation. If you are the next caretaker of this classic then give us a call at 314-710-6600 or email us at Sales@ItsAliveAuto.com.