1963 Austin-Healey 3000 MKII BJ7

The roots of the Austin-Healey 3000 stem from the Healey 100 that was first shown in 1952 at the Earls Court Motor Show. Introduced in 1959, the 3000 replaced the 100-6 and brought with it several welcome updates, including the new 2,912 cubic-centimeter inline six-cylinder engines. It was popular both on showroom floors and on the race track, achieving both commercial and competition successes.

The second-series 3000, called the Mark II, was unveiled in March of 1961 brought even more updates over the existing model. Engine improvements included triple SU carburetors and a revised camshaft helping to produce an additional eight horsepower. From November of 1961, the 3000 was given a new gearbox which moved the gear lever to the center of the transmission tunnel. In January 1962 the twin-carburetor MK II Convertible (or MK IIA) was introduced as a 2+2 only model with refinements that included wind-up windows, a fixed foldaway top, and swiveling quarter-lights.

DeLuxe models received an adjustable steering column, tonneau cover, and wire wheels.

The 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 MKII was available as a Sport Convertible with 2+2 seating and had a base price of $3,200. Production of the MK II would total 5,095 2+2s and 355 two-seaters through 1963; the succeeding 3000 MKIII was introduced that year.

by Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2019