1960 Austin-Healey 3000 Roadster. Photo courtesy RM Auctions

 Chassis No.HBN7L12667 - Estimate: $40,000-$50,000 US

124 bhp, 2,912 cc OHV inline six-cylinder engine, dual SU carburetors, four-speed manual gearbox with overdrive, independent front suspension with wishbones and coil springs, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and hydraulic front disc, rear drum brakes. Wheelbase: 92"

- Desirable two-seat configuration, powerful engine, front disc brakes
- Rare example with strong performance

The Healey Hundred was created in 1952 and skillfully combined Donald Healey’s sound chassis design, with a sleek “envelope” body designed by Gerry Coker and the overhead-valve Austin A90 four-cylinder engine. Displayed at the Earl’s Court Motor Show, Austin’s Leonard Lord saw the car, and a deal was quickly struck for its production by Austin. The car, which became known as the Austin-Healey 100, was succeeded by the six-cylinder 100/6 in 1956, and for 1959 the engine was enlarged and front disc brakes were added. The resulting highly developed Austin-Healey 3000 was an immediate success, both on and off the track.

The 1961 Austin-Healey 3000 MK I BN7 Roadster presented here is one of the most desirable models, retaining the original two-seat configuration and enhanced by the longer wheelbase of the “big” Healeys. Such features as the 124-bhp, 3.0-liter engine, front disc brakes and alloy body panels combine to deliver a spirited driving experience far beyond the earlier models. Only 2,825 of these very desirable sports cars were produced, and they continue to attract strong demand from collectors.

A lovely older body-off-frame restoration showing about 76,100 miles, this rare BN7 has excellent bodywork and panel alignment with striking Colorado Red paintwork. The cockpit is trimmed in black leather upholstery smartly piped in red, and the car is complete with a black convertible top and matching tonneau cover, a covered spare tire, side windows, chrome wire wheels, driving lights, and a detailed engine compartment. We are told the car is in excellent running condition. This is an excellent opportunity for the true British sports car enthusiast.

RM Auctions. Hershey. Friday, October 7, 2011 www.rmauctions.com