1963 Austin-Healey 3000 MkII
In current ownership since 1971

Registration No: 678 CAH
Chassis No: HBJ722445
MOT: Exempt

• '678 CAH' has been in current ownership since 1975
• Finished in Ice Blue Metallic with a Red leather interior
• Subject to a substantial restoration in the early 1990s
• Fitted with the desirable manual overdrive gearbox

One of the most charismatic British sportscars ever made, the Big Healey used what was essentially the same silhouette to evolve from a pared-back, four-cylinder Roadster through to a more civilised, six-cylinder Convertible. Introduced in February 1962, the 3000 MkII 2+2 'BJ7' model (nicknamed the MkIIa) pioneered such 'luxuries' as wind-up windows, swivelling quarter-lights and a fixed convertible hood. While the fitment of stiffer coil springs to the independent front suspension and a more direct steering box enhances its handling / roadholding capabilities. The manual / overdrive transmission gained a new case, and the 2912cc straight-six engine reverted to twin SU carburettors. With a reputed 132bhp and 170lbft of torque on tap, Girling front discs became standard equipment. The American magazine 'Sports Car Illustrated' noting with some delight that the BJ7’s speedometer needle could be wound beyond its final 120mph marking. For some, the short-lived MkIIa is the pick of the Big Healey bunch thanks to its combination of the classical (non-wooden) dashboard layout and improved soft-top.

First registered on 8 March 1963, 678 CAH has been with the vendor since 1975 when purchased for the princely sum of £375.00. Prior to his ownership the car was resident in Cambridge with one former keeper so it is quite possible it has been enjoyed by just 2 former owners plus the vendor since new. The green continuation logbook on file records the current owner and previous owner only. It is also interesting to note that the engine number recorded on the buff logbook and V5C (3370) is one digit out from that on the car (3570) which is possibly down to an error on the DVLA record. Now painted in Ice Blue metallic with red leather interior, it is understood a colour change was carried out around 1991 – an old photograph on file showing the car with what appears to be two tone gold paintwork. In the late 1980s / early 1990s the car was subject to a substantial amount of restoration work with invoices on file including a detailed inspection report and quote for works needed from renowned Austin-Healey specialists Orchard Restorations. Approximately 10,000 miles have been covered since completion. A conversion to run on unleaded fuel was also carried out by them in 1999.

Fitted with the desirable overdrive gearbox the car benefits from the recent addition of a new fuel pump and also has a fuel isolator fitted due to a period of London dry storage. Recently taken to a show at Capesthorne Hall, we are advised it always started on the button without any issues and drove nicely around the show grounds. Known for their minimal ground clearance, there are one or two areas of the lower bodywork which would benefit from cosmetic improvement. Offered with aforementioned Swansea V5c, green logbook and invoices.

For more information, please contact:
Oliver Fernyhough-Martin
oliver.fernyhough-martin@handh.co.uk
07483 361000