1959 Austin-Healey BT7 3000 Mk1

KEY FACTS

• A charismatic and highly regarded classic British sports car, this Austin-Healey ‘BT7’ 3000 Mk1 is an early ‘Big Healey’ and a pure expression of late-1950s open-top motoring.
• It is powered by a naturally aspirated 2.9-litre straight-six engine, driving the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission.
• First registered in December 1959, this example has been under the same ownership for close to 18 years, and within the same family since 1982.
• This example is reported to have undergone a full restoration by marque specialist Brian Wheeler in 1982, followed by a respray in 1984 and a complete interior re-trim in 1985.
• The odometer indicates 68,487 miles, though this is not warranted and the seller notes that they estimate the true mileage to be around 180,000 miles.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• This 3000 Mk1 is finished in the vibrant shade of Colorado Red, over a black leather and leatherette-trimmed interior, punctuated by chrome trim.
• It rides on a set of 15-inch cross-spoke wire wheels with chrome two-spoke knock-offs, framing red brake callipers, and fitted with mixed tyres.
• Equipment includes twin front driving lights, a chrome rear luggage rack, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, a heater, Smiths gauges, and door card storage pockets.
• It is accompanied by two keys, a spare wheel, a pair of removable side windows in a storage bag, period photos of the car, a driver’s handbook, a workshop manual, and a folder containing a collection of historical documentation.

CONDITION

• Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition.
• Specific notes from the seller include: a full respray was carried out in 1984, there is a blemish on the boot lid, and fair wear is visible on the black leather seats.
• The car’s last MOT test was conducted on 10 April 2012 at an indicated 14,539 miles, which resulted in a second-time pass with no advisories.

SERVICE HISTORY

• The seller states that the last recorded maintenance was a service in January 2025.
• The seller reports that the car has been serviced annually.
• The seller states that the vehicle previously underwent a full restoration in 1982, followed by further refurbishment work in the mid-1980s.

SUMMARY

This Austin-Healey 3000 Mk1 represents an appealing opportunity to acquire an early ‘Big Healey’ with long-term family ownership and reported to benefit from historical restorative maintenance. Finished in a highly evocative period colour scheme, it retains the character and driving appeal that define these celebrated British sports cars, and it would make a rewarding addition to any collection of classic motoring icons, and offers an engaging open-top driving experience for weekend use and classic events alike.

Descriptions are provided by the seller and, to their knowledge, are accurate and not misleading. Buyers must satisfy themselves of the description’s accuracy, and independent research is strongly advised. Enquiries should be raised in the comments section and any inspections arranged before bidding.

Classic and collectible vehicles may have had cosmetic or bodywork repairs that are not visually apparent. Photographs may not accurately reflect colour or condition, so buyers should confirm key details directly with the seller. Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalised, or heritage vehicle registration is not included in the sale of a car or bike. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.