1962 Austin-Healey 3000 MKII Roadster

In 1959 the Austin-Healey 3000 was given a few very important improvements over the preceding 100/6 model. The C-Series six-cylinder engine was enlarged to 2912cc and Girling discs were fitted to the front of the car. Horsepower rose to 124 bhp at 4600 RPM and top speed was achieved at 114 mph when the optional hardtop was in place. Few other differences existed between the old and new versions.

Eight more Horsepower would be gained in the early 1960s. Starting in November of 1961, the 3000 came with a new gearbox which finally had the gear level at the center of the transmission tunnel. In January of 1962, the 2+2 MKII Convertible, also known as the MKIIA, appeared, which brought with it many comfort features such as winding windows, swiveling quarter-lights, and fixed foldaway hood.

In 1962, production of the MKII ceased after 5,096 examples of the 2+2s and 355 two-seaters had been created. The convertible version continued until the introduction of the 3000 MKIII in 1963.

A restoration was performed on this car during the mid-1990s. It has seen very little use since the mid-1960s and still shows very well in modern times. In 2007 it was brought to the Bonhams Auction, An Important Sale of Collectors' Motorcars and Automobilia, held at the Quail Lodge Resort & Golf Club in Carmel, California. This 1962 Austin Healey 3000 MkIIA Convertible was sold for a high bid of $52,000 plus premium and taxes.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2008