I was thrilled to find this 1961 Austin-Healey 3000 BN7 “farm find” as one of our tips this afternoon! I drove a ’61 3000 during college and have never forgotten the “Big Healey” experience, although mine was the more common “4-seat” model. This 3000 is located in Torrance, California, and is listed for sale here on eBay, where the buy-it-now price is $9,995. The seller is interested in offers, though, so who knows how inexpensively this British sports car could be yours?

Rust is always an issue with Big Healeys, and this one is no exception. Don’t be too put off by the mottled body appearance, as most body and chassis parts are available from reputable suppliers–for a price! One nice thing is that the shrouds, or center body panels, are made from aluminum (or aluminium for our British readers). The seller tells us that the following parts are missing: both bumpers and presumably brackets, the grille, grille surround, center turn signal, and horn button, as well as the top. I’m guessing there’s more than that missing, though, as the panel that covers the front bumper brackets is not visible, and I don’t see side curtains. Some components can be harder to find; consider joining the national and local British car clubs for help.

One of the great things about the most common British sports cars is that you can find a lot of information from the British Motor Heritage Trust about how the car was specified when it left the factory. A certificate has been obtained for this car and is shown above. Sad to say, the hardtop is no longer with the car, but it was well-equipped and was originally delivered to Canada. You can see it was black with a red interior; a wonderful combination, but I admit I would add red coves if I were restoring the car.

Remember that earlier comment about rust? Here is an example picture from the underside of the car. While the seller includes many detail shots, it would be nice to see an overall picture of the car from under a lift. There are a lot of pits here, and part of the decision about taking this car on would be the level you would want it restored to. Rust converters and paint can only go so far.

I’m guessing the trunk lid was not originally on this car, and considering the perforated lower edge, I’m not sure I wouldn’t look for another one. But if you are handy with a MIG or TIG welder and have plenty of time, it won’t take that much money for driver-level body work. And isn’t that what most folks want, anyway? I’m interested in your thoughts on perfect vs. driveable without wincing–please comment below!