Donald Healey’s genius lay in his ability to deploy a tuned Austin powertrain in a low-slung chassis, enclosed in a pretty barchetta body. The result was the Austin-Healey 100, which proved to be hugely popular, particularly in the USA. The model was quick, while featuring few nasty handling flaws such as swing axles which appeared on many other cars at the time. All of this allowed it to be either raced or just used for grocery shopping—the Austin-Healey was a true everyman sportscar.

Development of the Austin-Healey led to the four-cylinder engine gaining an extra two cylinders, and then being further enlarged to 2,912cc for the 3000 version. Further improvements for the 3000 included the introduction of Girling front disc brakes. The 3000 Mk I and Mk II versions were available in two-seater (BN7) and 2+2 (BT7) configurations, with the latter proving to be the most popular.

According to its British Motor Industry Heritage Trust (BMIHT) certificate, this 3000 Mk I was built during April 1959 before being despatched on 20 May 1959. An original left-hand-drive example built for the North American market, this car was apparently finished in Ivory over Red, and well-optioned. At some point in its life, this Healey appears to have been rebuilt as a BN7 two-seater. Importantly, it still retains its matching-numbers engine.

A fun classic for any enthusiast, this Healey will require recommissioning after a period of static display. Once it is ready for the road, it could be an ideal car for touring around Europe and beyond.