1961-Austin Healey-3000 BT7 Mk. I

Description

1961 Austin Healey Mk. I 3000 BT7
s/n HBN7L/6820, Engine no. 29D/RU/H8575
White with Black and White Piping interior

The Austin-Healey Mk. I 3000 was the first three-litre “big Healey” and represents a nice compromise between the larger more luxurious Mk. II and Mk III models, and the cleaner styling and simplicity of the earlier cars. It has a shapely metal dashboard, flat windscreen, fully removable weather equipment, and the more pronounced “coke bottle” rear fender profile. Originally introduced in 1952 to fill the large gap between cars like the Triumph TR2 and MG TD and cars like the Jaguar XK-120, the earliest of these “big Healeys”, the 100/4, was powered by a four-cylinder engine derived from those used in Austin A90 Saloons. By 1956, car had become the 100-Six, which was powered by a 2.7 litre six cylinder engine, which would grow to nearly three litres for 1959.

This particular car is a fully restored example, with over $86,000 in invoices for work completed between 2004 and 2008. The restoration was both mechanical and cosmetic, and included body, paint, chrome, engine, transmission, cooling and brake system rebuilds, among many other works. The end result was a “number 1” car, fit for concours showing. Many correct details, equipment, and finishes are in place. The wheels, tires, and top material are all new, and in excellent condition accordingly. At the time of the restoration, any corrosion which may have existed was professionally corrected with new metal.

Today the car remains very nice, with few miles logged since the restoration was completed. The car runs and drives well, with working overdrive, accurate steering, and effective brakes. Upgrades include an external oil filter and a Moto-Lita wood rimmed steering wheel.

Included with the car is a photo documentation of the restoration process detailing the vast scope of the work, as well as the actual invoices, an Austin Healey resource book, and an appraisal from 2007, estimating the value to be $89,990.

*Note that there is an anomaly with the identification of this car in that it was, mostly likely at the factory, tagged as a BN7, while it is actually a BT7 in construction (4-seat).