1963 Austin-Healey 3000

In 1959, Austin-Healey released its replacement for the 100-6. The Austin-Healey 3000 (designated the BN7 in roadster form and the BT7 as a 2+2) retained the Jensen Motors-built body and wheelbase of its predecessor. Big news for the 3000 included front disc brakes and a 124-horsepower 2,912cc straight-six, mated to a 4-speed transmission with an electric overdrive. Almost 14,000 were sold before the 3000 MkI was replaced with the Austin-Healey 3000 MkII in 1961.

The big differences in the new Austin-Healey 3000 MkII were a triple-carburettor engine (SU HS4) rated at 132 horsepower and a distinctive new grille with vertical bars. Late in 1962, the two-seater was dropped, roll-up windows were introduced, and the carburettors (which had proved troublesome) were replaced with twin SU HS6 units. This new convertible was designated the BJ7.

The final iteration of the Austin-Healey 3000 was the MkIII version of 1963, designated the BJ8. Power was up again, this time to 150 horsepower and the cockpit was extensively revised to make the 3000 MkIII the most luxurious of all big Healeys.

All Austin-Healey 3000s are powerful, good looking and very collectible. They do suffer from rust, with the door pillars and inner panels being notoriously bad. Panel fit at the front should also be checked as the bonnet area is susceptible to damage due to low bumpers. The exhaust system is also very low and prone to damage, and steering boxes tend to wear. Many upmarket improvements are available, including suspension, electrics, and mechanical upgrades.

The Austin-Healey 3000 had a significant competition history, including URX 727, arguably the most famous racing 3000. This car, a 1960 Austin-Healey 3000 MkI, was raced by Pat Moss (sister of Stirling) and Ann Wisdom. It achieved an outright victory in the Liege-Rome-Liege rally, which is considered by many to be the toughest rally in Europe.

Today good examples of the Austin-Healey 3000 are very collectable. Alternative roadsters from the era include the Jaguar XK150, the Jaguar E-Type, and the AC Cobra.