2012-02-28 11:48:27 | pauls writes:

Car to be at auction 3/12
www.goodingco.com/car/1961-austin-healey-3000

1961 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk I BN7
CHASSIS NO. HBT7/13716 (see text)
$70,000 - $90,000
Without Reserve
Rare UK Market Example
Outstanding Restoration in Original Colors
Offered with BMI Heritage Trust Certificate
A Great Example of the Big Healey

As a 1961 model, this beautifully restored two-seater Austin-Healey Mk I is a rare sight. Rarer still, it was built for the UK market in right- hand-drive configuration. Though reporting of production numbers varies slightly among sources, it is possible that as few as 17 such home- market examples were built in 1961 prior to the introduction of the 3000 Mk II. Although the BMI Hertiage certificate confirms that this car is a BN7, the original data tag was incorrectly stamped HBT7.

This Mk I was restored for the previous owner by the highly respected restoration shop Fourintune of Cedarburg, Wisconsin. Fourintune owner Tom Kovacs has been specializing in Austin- Healey restorations for 36 years and, having been entrusted with the restoration of several works competition cars, has become a noted authority on even the rarest of Austin-Healey models.

Prior to its arrival at Fourintune, this Mk I had been totally disassembled, the engine and transmission reportedly having been previously rebuilt. As the restoration progressed, the chassis was sandblasted to bare steel, heavy-duty side sills were affixed and the panel alignment was checked throughout.

Applying the exacting restoration standards for which Fourintune is renowned, all mechanical components were installed and tested prior to the final fitting of the bodywork so as to ensure a reliable finished product. On inspection, this Mk I appears correct and handsomely detailed in all areas. The engine compartment is very well prepared, showing proper fittings and ancillaries throughout.

Completed in 2011, this Mk I was finished in its original color combination of hand-rubbed black enamel with red leather and vinyl interior trimmed with black piping, as was customary during production. The upholstery, carpet and soft top display the smooth, taught hallmarks of the work of an expert trimmer. To finish the job, show- quality chrome trim was installed, together with new 72-spoke Dayton wire wheels finished in gloss silver paint and shod with Michelin XZX radial tires.

Today, some 50 years since they were built, the Austin-Healey 3000 series cars have become timeless collectibles. Coveted for their wonderful styling, reliable mechanicals, lively road manners and comfortable cockpits, these Big Healeys are a welcome sight at events and rallies worldwide. Competent and nimble in modern traffic, and with a consummate network of parts suppliers, these sprightly roadsters may be the ideal daily classic.