1962 Austin-Healey BT7 in Bedford Heights, Ohio

Vehicle Description

1962 AUSTIN HEALEY MARK II 3000 BT 7 2 PLUS 2

The Austin Healey 3000 is a British sports car built from 1959 to 1967. It is the best known of the “Big Healey” models. The car’s bodywork was made by Jensen Motors and the vehicles were assembled at BMC’s Abingdon Works, alongside the corporations’ MG models.

During its production life, the car transitioned from an open sports car, albeit with a child-transporting 2+2 option, to a sports convertible.

In 1963, 91.5 percent of all Austin-Healey 3000 cars were exported, mostly to North America.

The 3-litre 3000 was a highly successful car, which won its class in many European rallies in its heyday and is still raced in classic car competitions by enthusiasts today.

British Leyland ended manufacture in 1967, intending it’s place to be filled by a car with essentially the same engine in a more recently designed monocoque MGB today named MGC.

The Austin-Healey 3000 was introduced on 1 July 1959 with a 3-litre BMC C-Series engine to replace the smaller 2.6-litre engine of the 100-6 and disc brakes for its front wheels. The manufacturers claimed it would reach 60 mph in 11 seconds and 100 mph in 31 seconds.

Other changes were minor compared to those between the original 100 and 100-6. The wheelbase and body were unchanged as were the body styles, a 2+2 or BT7 and two-seater BN7.

Engines fitted with three SU HS4 carburetors and an improved camshaft were announced at the end of May 1961. Other changes included a vertical barred front grille. Optional extras were similar to the Mark I. From August 1961, a brake servo was also available as an optional extra, which greatly improved braking performance.

The 3000 sports convertible Mark II was launched at the end of August 1962 it was a true convertible with almost saloon car comfort, a new wrap-around windscreen, wind-up side windows, swiveling quarter lights and a never used folding roof still in its package as well as brand new side curtains. Twin SU HS6 carburetors replaced the triple SUs. Austin Healey claimed it could exceed 115 mph.

11,564 Mark IIs were made: 355 BN7 open two seaters, 5,096 BT7 2+2s and 6,113 BJ7 2+2 sports convertibles.

The BT 7 Mark II is the last true roadster. It distinguishes itself from the BN 7, as it is a 2 plus 2 Model, meaning it has front and rear seats.

This car sports triple SU HS4 carburetors, a folding roof, chrome wire wheels, heater, a laminated windscreen, and two-tone paint. It also has a tonneau that covers both front and rear seats. Car comes with convertible top and set of side curtains.

It is a matching numbers example that runs fast, smooth and straight. Its proper muffler gives it a rumbling sound that any enthusiast loves to hear going down the road. It is not for the faint of heart, as it is capable of reaching a top speed of 112 mph and can accelerate from 0-60 in 10.9 seconds.

This car benefitted from a frame of restoration 12 years ago, and has been expertly maintained by its current owner. The paint is excellent; the chrome shows slight wear, but no pitting. The undercarriage and chassis is clean and shows no evidence of rust or wear. We are sure this automobile will bring years of delight to the next care taker.

NOTE: Included is a numbered Heritage Trust dated and stamped certificate which can be seen in the accompanying photographs.