Austin-Healey 3000 - A Brief History

The Austin-Healey 3000 was launched in June 1959 featuring several improvements over its predecessor the 100/6. These included an increase in engine capacity from 2639cc to 2912cc, Girling front disc brakes, adjustable front seats, and wire wheels as standard. Subtle styling changes were also made to the bodywork, which was produced as both a 2-seater and a 2+2. A factory built hardtop was also available as an optional extra. As with other Austin-Healeys these cars are sometimes referred to by their factory designations with the Mk I 2-seater being known as the BN7 and the 2+2 the BT7. A mark II model was introduced in 1961, and this featured triple S.U. carburettors boosting the engine power to 132bhp. Minor changes to the cars frontal appearance were made, and an improved hood, windscreen, and wind up side windows were fitted. From 1963 the 2-seater model was dropped. The final version of the 3000, the Mk III appeared in 1964. This had a further increase in engine power, servo assisted brakes, improved rear suspension and a more luxurious interior, which featured a wood veneer dashboard. The 3000 was discontinued in 1968.

Specifications

Model

Mk I

Mk II

Mk III

Years Produced

1959 - 1961

1961 - 1963

1964 - 1968

Body Type 

Steel body, steel chassis

Length

13ft 1.5in

13ft 1.5in

13ft 1.5in

Width

5ft 0.5in

5ft 0.5in

5ft 0.5in

Weight

2520lb

2553lb

2601lb

Engine

6 cyl inline 2912cc

6 cyl inline 2912cc

6 cyl inline 2912cc

Power

124 bhp @  4600 rpm

132 bhp @  4750 rpm

148 bhp @  4750 rpm

Torque

175lb ft @  3000 rpm

167lb ft @  3000 rpm

165lb ft @  3000 rpm

Gearbox

4 speed o/drive

4 speed o/drive

4 speed o/drive

Driven Wheels

Rear

Rear

Rear

Brakes

Disc front, drum rear

Disc front, drum rear

Discs front, drum rear

Front Suspension

Independent coils spring and wishbone

Rear Suspension

Leaf Spring, live axle

Leaf Spring, live axle

Leaf Spring, live axle

Performance (approximate figures)

Model

MK I

MK II

Mk III

Top Speed

113 mph

116 mph

122mph

0 - 60 mph

11.4 seconds

10.5 seconds

9.8 seconds

Fuel Consumption

20 mpg

20 mpg

20 mpg

Austin-Healey 3000 Mk I (left) and MK II (right)

Austin-Healey Club (UK) Eastern Centre

Austin-Healey Club USA

Austin-Healey 3000 books at Amazon.co.uk

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