Lot details Registration No: ACV405B Chassis No: H8J829063 Mot Expiry: March 2012
Donald Healey's eponymous company built a prototype two-seater sports car for display at the 1952 London Motor Show, which so excited Austin's Managing Director, Leonard Lord, that he struck a deal to build the car in volume at Longbridge. The newcomer was renamed the Austin Healey 100. The rest, as they say, is history.
The 'Big Healey' enjoyed steady development with the four cylinder cars giving way to the 100-Six of 1956, which was replaced by the first of the 3000s in 1959. The final iteration was the 3000 MKIII 2+2, which was launched in October 1963 and remained in production until the end of 1967. The most powerful and luxurious of all the derivatives, it had lively performance courtesy of its 150 bhp straight-six engine and featured such niceties as wind up windows and a walnut-veneer facia.
The 3000 MKIII being sold is a 1964 example finished in Green with Black leather interior. The vendor purchased it from a Robert Brown in circa 1979, since when it has benefited from a comprehensive restoration by a marque specialist and additional work by Denis Welch's renowned organisation, including the balancing of the engine. We understand ACV 405B was based close to Mallory Park for many years, during which time it was driven by a number of renowned competition drivers, including Roger Clark. It also represented the Austin Healey Club at Silverstone's 'Motor 100' celebrations. Apparently never undersealed or Waxoyled, we're told the Healey has always been garaged and well looked after while in the vendor's care. The hood, tonneau and upholstery are evidently original and the vendor regards the car's bodywork, paintwork, interior, engine and transmission as all 'good' and this Healey as a 'very fast car'. It comes with a spare set of (steel) wheels and hubs, and Heritage Certificate.
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