Lot details Registration No: KKH417D Chassis No: HBJ8L-32881 Mot Expiry: Feb 2012
Donald Healey's eponymous company built a prototype two-seater sports car for display at the 1952 London Motor Show. Based on Austin A90 Atlantic mechanicals and sporting a sleek body designed by Gerry Coker and built by Tickford, it was dubbed the 'Healey Hundred' (chosen to reflect the car's ability to reach 100mph), and, subject to a suitably encouraging response, Healey planned to build production versions in-house at his factory in Warwick. Not only did the Ice Blue prototype more than impress the public, but also 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 is history. The 'Big' Healey enjoyed steady development, 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 150bhp straight-six engine and featured such niceties as wind-up windows and a walnut-veneer facia, plus more rear suspension travel.
A left-hand drive export model which was originally shipped to the USA, this particular example has only recently been repatriated. The vendor informs us that the Big Healey "was delivered new in the LA area. The last owner bought the car in 1981 and kept it until 2010. There's a full history file with registration slips back to the 1970s including a metal credit card detailing the owner's name and address". He goes on to say "This a structurally superb car with excellent panel gaps, and an incredibly original, unrestored interior with correct vinyl seats and dashboard. The motor has excellent oil pressure and runs smoothly and does not overheat, and the gearbox is strong. A well-looked after car with 90k miles from new". Seemingly ideal for Continental motoring, this desirable last-of-the-line 3000 MkIII is offered for sale with UK V5C Registration Document and current MOT certificate.
PLEASE NOTE: This vehicle is now registered as KKH417D has an MOT until Feb 2012.
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