2014-04-18 00:40:35 | Lofty writes:

Car to be at auction 4/14
www.classic-auctions.com/Auctions/24-04-2014-ImperialWarMuseumDuxford-1365/1960A ...

Auction description:
Lot Number: 27
1960 Austin-Healey 3000 MkI
Estimate: (£) 34,000 - 38,000

Reg Number: 734 UYE
Chassis Number: H-BT7-L/9856
Engine Number: 29D-RU-H/16086
Cc: 3000
Body Colour: Red
Trim Colour: Black
MOT ExpiryDate: Jan 2015

According to its accompanying BMIHT certificate, chassis HBT7L/9856 was despatched to New York on 3rd June 1960. Repatriated some thirty years later, the 2+2-seater was subsequently treated to a `ground up' refurbishment / improvement programme by David Ward of Big Healey Restorations. Intended for his own use, the project took fifteen years to complete and incorporates numerous lessons learnt from working on other 3000s. Powered by a thoroughly overhauled BJ8 engine (BJ8 camshaft, unleaded cylinder head, uprated front damper, modified rear crankshaft oil seal, 2-inch inlet manifold, twin SU HD8 carburettors etc) allied to a four-speed centre-change BJ8 manual gearbox, the Big Healey also boasts a new BJ8 diaphragm clutch, hi-torque starter motor, heavy duty radiator core (30% more efficient), uprated overdrive (by Overdrive Services of Rugby) and BJ8 specification disc / drum brakes (new larger brake cylinder / servo). Riding on new 72-spoke wire wheels shod with fresh radial tyres, the car has had its headlamp dip and overdrive switches relocated to the dashboard and gearlever respectively. Sporting a genuine `Works' hardtop, period Les Leston wood-rim steering wheel, balanced propshaft, tinted windscreen, new fuel tank, re-panelled bodywork (including a new old stock lower front valance), rejuvenated suspension, restored instruments, red-piped black leather upholstery, fresh wiring and new black carpets / door trims, the 3000 has covered just 5 miles since completion. Yet to be run-in and only coming to market due to a change of plans, `734 UYE' is summed-up by Mr Ward thus: `in effect this Austin-Healey should provide many years of pleasurable enjoyment as everything has been overhauled (even the wiper motor)'. Worthy of close inspection, this decidedly special Big Healey is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until January 15th 2015 and historic class (free) road fund licence valid until January 31st 2015.

2014-05-18 11:23:58 | pauls writes:

Sold For £41,440