1967 Austin-Healey 3000 Mark III Phase II Convertible
Registration no. YTA 514E
Chassis no. H-BJ8-L/40398
Engine no. 29K-RU-H/1512

Launched at the New York Motor Show in March 1959, the Austin-Healey 3000 retained the muscular good looks of its 100/6 predecessor while providing a useful increase in performance thanks to a larger-capacity version of the long-established C-Series engine. Over-bored to 2,912cc, the latter produced 124bhp at a leisurely 4,600rpm, which was good enough for a top speed of 114mph with the optional hardtop in place. Otherwise, the car was much as the 100/6, though Girling front disc brakes were a welcome improvement.

Introduced in 1961, the Mark II in Convertible form brought with it improved practicality courtesy of a fixed foldaway top and winding windows, while engine improvements in the form of triple SU carburettors and a revised camshaft liberated an extra 8bhp. From now until the end of production, the only model available would be the 2+2, the less popular two-seat version having been dropped. From November '61 the 3000 was equipped with a new gearbox, a development which at last moved the gear lever to the centre of the transmission tunnel.

The 3000 Mark III with 148bhp engine appeared early in 1964, to be followed later in the year by the Phase II version with increased ground clearance – addressing a long-term criticism – and revised rear suspension incorporating twin radius arms instead of a Panhard rod. Top speed was now 121mph and the 0-60mph time dipped below 10 seconds. Despite the antiquity of the basic design the 'Big Healey' remained as popular as ever, though increasingly stringent safety and emissions legislation meant that its days were numbered. By the time production ended in December 1967, over 16,000 Phase IIs - by far the most popular variant - had been built.

This Austin-Healey 3000 Mark III was imported from the US in 2013 and restored and converted from left to right-hand drive in 2014 by the renowned Classic Coach Builders of Sittingbourne, Kent at a cost exceeding £50,000. Only some 2,000 miles have been covered since the restoration. The Healey has a new black mohair hood and cover, while an original-specification vinyl hood (as new) is included in the sale. Said to be in very good condition throughout, the car comes with a memory stick of all restoration photographs, plus a Heritage Certificate, driver's handbook, workshop manual, and V5C document.