1961 Austin-Healey 3000 BT7 Mk II

Description

The 1961 Austin-Healey 3000 MKII BT7 represents the evolution of the “Big Healey” line, which was produced from 1959 to ’61. The BT7 was the 2+2 configuration of the model, powered by a 2.9-liter C-Series inline‑six and equipped with front disc brakes, a significant improvement over earlier Healeys.

In 1961, the model transitioned into the Mark II (Mk II) variant, which introduced three SU HS4 carburetors, upgraded valve springs, and a revised camshaft, boosting performance and refining drivability. The BT7 retained its roadster character with a flat windscreen, detachable side screens, and minimal weather gear, emphasizing sporting performance over comfort. As a 2+2, it offered compact rear jump seats, distinguishing it from the two‑seat BN7. A total of 5,096 Mk II BT7 models were produced.

According to the included British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate, this right-hand drive 1961 Austin-Healey BT7 left the factory finished in Healey Blue over a blue interior, and has since been refinished in two-tone Colorado Red and Ivory White with a replacement white top and reupholstered Ivory White seats. Additional upgrades include 15” spoked wheels with knockoff hubs and seat belts in the front and rear.

This 3000 BT7 MkII is now offered in Florida with a British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate, tonneau cover, Austin-Healey 300 Mks 1 and 2 Driver’s Handbook, and a clean Minnesota title in the seller’s name.

Highlights

• British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate (see photo gallery)

• Right-hand drive

• 2.9L inline-six engine with triple SU HS4 carburetors

• Four‑speed manual gearbox with optional overdrive

• Refinished in Colorado Red and Ivory White over Ivory White upholstery

Factory Equipment

• Smiths gauge cluster, including 120-mph speedometer and 6,000-rpm tachometer

• Wood-rimmed steering wheel

• Black carpet

• Optional luggage rack

• Factory equipment, according to British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate:

  • Healey Blue paint and trim (now two-tone Colorado Red and Ivory White)

  • Disc wheels (now spoked wheels)

  • Overdrive

  • Heater

  • Adjustable steering column

  • Laminated windscreen

  • Black hardtop (no longer with the car)

• The chassis number (HBT715667) decodes as:

  • H – Austin-Healey

  • BT7 – 4-seat tourer with 2.9L straight-six engine

  • 15667 – Serial number range for 1961 Series 3000 MK II with triple SU HS4 carburetors

Modifications

• Refinished in two-tone Colorado Red and Ivory White paint with a white convertible soft top

• Reupholstered Ivory White front seats (older, color-matching rear)

• 15” spoked wheels with knockoff hubs

• Seat belts installed front/rear

Servicing

• 2025: Replaced spark plugs

• 2024: Replaced battery (Interstate)

• 2021: Firestone F-560 Tubeless Radial 165R15 tires installed

• Replaced solenoid

Documentation

• British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate (see photo gallery)

Known Imperfections

• Odometer not functioning properly

• Paint chips, peeling on driver's side of rear deck

• Paint scuffs on inside front edge of trunk

• Paint chips on wheels

• Wood on steering wheel is worn

• Scuffs on dashboard

• Rear seats show age, color slightly mismatched to front seats

Ownership History

The seller of this 1961 Austin-Healey 3000 MKII BT7 purchased it in March 2022. According to the car's British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate, it was manufactured 17-18 October 1961 and delivered new to Lookers Limited, Manchester (UK).

Included Items

• Red tonneau cover

• Spare tire with cover

• Knockoff spinner removal tool

• Austin-Healey 300 Mks 1 and 2 Driver’s Handbook

Additional Information

The seller states, “Everything about this car screams British. Right-hand drive, tri-carb. Comes with tonneau cover, drophead/rag top with side curtains. The front seats have been reupholstered to Healey standards.

The Healey was damaged (broadsided) on the driver side and has been completely repaired by an experienced Healey shop. The hood and passenger side have paint blemishes as anticipated with an older vehicle. The tires and inner tubes have all been replaced, as well as the battery and solenoid.

I don’t believe that the mileage on the vehicle is accurate due to the ease of disconnecting the speedometer cable.”