The personal property of John Chatham
1962 Austin Healey 3000 MkII Convertible
Registration no. 443 YUP
Chassis no. H-BJ7-L/19545
Engine no. 29F-RU-H/107

In January 1962 the 2+2-only MkII Convertible (or MkIIA) version of the much-loved Austin-Healey 3000 appeared, boasting long overdue refinements such as winding windows, swivelling quarter-lights and fixed foldaway hood. The reversion to easier-to-tune, twin-SU carburettors cut maximum output by 1bhp, yet thanks to the superior aerodynamics, conferred by its curved windscreen, the MkII Convertible contrived to be marginally faster than its immediate predecessor, reaching 116mph flat out. MkII production ceased in 1962 after 5,095 2+2s and 355 two-seaters had been built; though the Convertible continued until the introduction of the 3000 MkIII in 1963.

A left-hand drive BJ7 (2+2) model delivered new to California, this MkIIA is the personal property of marque specialist, John Chatham - 'Mr Healey' - the quality of whose work is renowned the world over. The Healey returned to the UK in 1988 and for many years was dry stored before its restoration commenced in 2007. All panels are original – never accident damaged – and the entire car was restored for John in-house to the highest standard with exceptional attention to detail (photographs on file). It has the desirable overdrive transmission and incorporates various upgrades to MkIII specification; principally concerning the engine, which is equipped with a different camshaft, 2" SU carburettors and a larger exhaust system in stainless steel. In addition, the car boasts MkIII rear shock absorbers, MkIII locking door handles, a high-torque starter motor, wood-rim steering wheel and 72-spoke wire wheels. Originally Ivory White with black interior, it has been refinished in White but re-trimmed in a more appealing blue leather with matching mohair hood. The restoration was completed and the car back on the road in January 2013, since when it has covered circa 1,800 miles, including a trip to the Techno Classica Essen in Germany to appear on the Austin-Healey Owners' Club stand.

Restored to a level that would grace a concours lawn by one of the best in the business, this beautiful Austin-Healey 3000 is offered with a BMIHT certificate, V5C registration document and MoT to December 2015.