Chassis No. HBN7-L/17704 Introduced in 1959, the Austin Healey 3000—commonly nicknamed the “Big Healey” for its 2,912-cc six-cylinder engine originally producing 124 horsepower—was a commercial success for the British marque. Produced either as a 2+2 roadster (BT7) or a strict two-seater (BN7), it was naturally the latter that was most often used in competition. Many were indeed prepared for rallying or racing, following the example set by factory cars such as the famous “DD 300,” which competed at Sebring and Le Mans in 1960. Delivered new in left-hand drive in February 1962 in the state of New York, the Austin Healey 3000 MKII BN7 presented here was imported from the United States in 1988 by John Chatham, often referred to as “Mr. Big Healey.” It was converted to right-hand drive and modified to FIA specifications to compete in the UK vs US Healey Challenge in 1990, driven by Mike Windsor. Since then, this example has raced continuously in major historic events across Europe, as documented by the numerous race reports and timing sheets included in its extensive file. The current French owner acquired the car in 2024 and, the following year, competed in the Le Mans Classic in Plate 3 alongside the legendary “DD300.” The car was first fully restored in the 1990s by the British specialist Rawles Motorsport. In 2020, the then-owner, Richard Hudson, carried out a mechanical restoration to FIA standards with Woolmer Classic Engineering. The aluminum body and paint remain in generally good presentation. Equipped with a FIA-homologated Denis Welch aluminum cylinder head and its three Weber 45 DCOE carburetors, the engine now produces a claimed 270 hp, making this Healey an ideal contender for the Peter Auto Sixties’ Endurance Series, the 6 Hours of Spa, or the GTSCC. Accompanied by its FIA PTH, valid until 31 December 2025, this example has competed for only two hours (Le Mans Classic 2025) since its last overhaul. Driven by a specialist on public roads in early January, the engine proved well-tuned, delivering its full power, and is fully ready to shine on track once again! PREVIEW DETAILS: This lot will be available for viewing in person at Roland-Garros Stadium from Tuesday, 27th January 2026 to Friday, 30th January 2026. SALE LOCATION: France BUYER’S PREMIUM: 10% + VAT on the Hammer Price TITLE/REGISTRATION DOCUMENTS: Bill of Sale ADDITIONAL NOTES: N/A POST-AUCTION REMOVAL AND STORAGE: Following the auction, this lot will be removed from site and transferred to a third party storage facility outside of Paris, France. The removal fee of €520 + VAT will be charged to the buyer. Storage charges of €40 + VAT per lot per day will also be charged from Saturday, 31st January 2026.
- Fuel
- Body Types
- Transmission
- Exterior Colour
- Number of doors
- Interior Colour
- VIN CodeHBN7-L/17704
