2017-08-31 13:11:26 | Lofty writes:

Car to be at auction 9/17
www.silverstoneauctions.com/1962-austin-healey-3000-mkii

Auction description:
- The Salon Privé Sale 2017
1962 Austin Healey 3000 MKII
Lot No.: 258
Registration: BSL 696
Chassis Number: HBJ7L19403
Engine Number: 29FRUH3975
Number of cylinders: 6
CC: 2912
Year of Manufacture: 1962
RHD/LHD: Right Hand Drive
Estimate (£): 60,000 - 70,000

This delightful Austin Healey 3000 Mk.II (BJ7) dates from 1962 and is finished in Healey Ice Blue over Ivory with Silver wire wheels and a Blue leather interior. It's fitted with the 2912cc six-cylinder, twin HS6 carburettor engine mated to a 4-speed manual gearbox with overdrive. It was originally built in left-hand drive form and exported to Santa Barbara in California, where it presumably enjoyed the sort of adventures that a gorgeous Healey would have in the California sunshine.

On its return to the UK, it was professionally converted to right-hand drive and subsequently entrusted to the very experienced Austin Healey specialists, Orchard Restorations in East Sussex for a 100% 'Nut and Bolt' restoration.

The Healey has covered only 19,000 miles since leaving Orchard Restorations and the quality of their work is absolutely evident. The coachwork is crisp with excellent shut lines and the paintwork is fresh and retains a deep shine. The interior is very smart with seemingly unmarked blue leather, matching carpets and is set off nicely by a 'Moto-Lita' wood rim wheel. The folding hood and tonneau cover are also in Navy Blue and appear excellent and the engine bay is superb.

The car is accompanied by a decent history file, which in addition to the usual documentation, contains a letter from the Heritage Trust and a full set of photographs of the restoration.

Offered at a most realistic level today, BSL 696 has been the subject of significant investment in recent years and would make a fine touring companion.