The 1960 Austin-Healey 3000 stands as a definitive pillar of British sports car history, famously known by enthusiasts as the Big Healey. This BT7 example offers the versatile 2+2 seating configuration, making it an ideal choice for collectors seeking a mix of performance and classic touring capability. Having undergone a thorough strip-down restoration starting in 2015, the car has been meticulously refined both mechanically and cosmetically. Its striking Black and Old English White finish highlights the elegant proportions that made the 3000 an international icon during the mid-twentieth century. Now showing 41,275 miles, this roadster is prepared for immediate enjoyment on the open road.
Old English White Accents and Classic Wire Wheel Silhouette
The visual character of this Big Healey is defined by its two-tone paint scheme, which was professionally applied in 2017 to emphasize the car’s flowing curves. Its silhouette is anchored by traditional chrome wire wheels fitted with fresh tires, showing fewer than 500 miles of use since installation. The exterior is further enhanced by a chrome luggage rack with leather tie-down belts and a newly installed badge and light bar. Following a complete body straightening, the panels align beautifully, showcasing the timeless roadster profile that defines the Austin-Healey brand. This example includes a daily driving tonneau cover and a soft-top, ensuring it remains practical for various weather conditions.
Custom Burl Wood Dashboard and Perforated Racing Seats
Inside the cabin, the environment has been extensively upgraded to provide a more luxurious and driver-focused experience than the original factory specification. The cockpit features a custom burl-wood dashboard that adds a touch of bespoke elegance, paired with a vintage Moto-Lita steering wheel. New perforated racing-style seats provide improved support during spirited driving, while a fresh carpet kit ensures the interior feels tight and well-finished. Every detail, from the replacement temperature gauge to the new headlight switch, has been addressed to ensure functional reliability. This combination of natural wood, leather, and chrome creates a classic British atmosphere that is both inviting and sophisticated.
Legendary C Series Inline Six and Electric Overdrive Precision
Power is delivered by the iconic 2.9L C-Series inline-six engine equipped with twin SU carburetors, providing the throaty exhaust note that Healey owners prize. Recent mechanical stewardship has been extensive, including a new head gasket, a replacement clutch plate, and a restored rear main seal. The powerplant is mated to a four-speed manual transmission featuring a functional electric overdrive for comfortable highway cruising. To ensure modern reliability, the cooling system was completely overhauled with a high-performance Wizard Cooling radiator and a new water pump. This robust engine produces a distinctive feel, offering ample torque for hill climbs and reliable cooling during long summer rallies.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.9L C-Series Inline-6 |
| Carburetion | Twin SU Carburetors |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Manual w/ Overdrive |
| Brakes | Restored Master Cylinder & Lines |
| Cooling | Wizard Cooling Radiator |
| Drivetrain | Restored Rear Differential |
Strong Value in the BT7 2 plus 2 Configuration
In the global vintage market, the 1960 Austin-Healey 3000 remains a blue-chip collectible that consistently outperforms many of its contemporary four-cylinder rivals. The BT7 model is particularly desirable for its additional seating capacity, offering more utility than the strict two-seat BN7 variant. While many Healeys suffer from overheating issues, the extensive cooling upgrades on this specific car provide a significant unique selling point for active drivers. Compared to the later BJ8 models, the earlier 3000s are often preferred for their purer dashboard aesthetics and raw roadster feel. This example represents a turnkey entry point into the upper tier of British car ownership.
Investment Reliability and Recent Mechanical Stewardship
Owning an Austin-Healey 3000 is often viewed as a safe harbor for automotive investment due to the massive global following and parts availability. This example has benefited from significant recent expenditure, including a full brake restoration and suspension refresh, ensuring it handles as well as it looks. The current owner has prioritized mechanical integrity, with documented work ranging from a new water pump to extensive head gasket service in 2025. Regular oil changes and consistent maintenance have been performed throughout its recent history, according to the current records. For the collector who values a car that has been sorted for the road rather than just the show lawn, this Healey is a compelling choice.
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Source: motorcarclassics.com
