Austin-Healey 3000 MkII (1961–1963) Price Guide

The Austin-Healey 3000 MkII covers the most varied chapter in the model’s history. It encompasses the triple-carburettor BN7 and BT7 of 1961, the short-lived BJ7 convertible that followed, and what many specialists consider the sweet spot of the entire 3000 range. Understanding which MkII variant you are looking at is essential, because the differences between them are significant.

The BN7 and BT7 MkII (1961–1962)

The MkII arrived in May 1961 with a revised grille, new bonnet air intake, and triple SU HS4 carburettors raising power to 132bhp. The triple carburettor setup proved unpopular with dealers and owners alike; setting up three carburettors in synchronisation was demanding, and the performance improvement over the later twin-carb arrangement was marginal. Only 355 BN7 two-seaters and 5,096 BT7 2+2s were built with triple carburettors before the BJ7 arrived.

The BJ7 (1962–1963)

The BJ7 was the pivotal development in the 3000’s life. It introduced a curved windscreen, wind-up windows, a proper folding hood that could be raised from the driver’s seat, and extra soundproofing. This all transformed the car from an open sports car that required commitment to use in changeable weather into a genuine touring convertible. The triple carburettors were replaced by larger twin SU HS6 units, reverting to a specification close to the MkI’s but with revised camshaft producing 131bhp. Despite losing 1bhp over the triple-carb cars, the BJ7 was six seconds faster to 100mph. The more efficient breathing of the larger twin carbs more than compensated. 6,113 BJ7s were built. This is the most practically useful MkII, significantly rarer than the MkIII BJ8 that followed.

Buying

The BJ7 is the MkII to seek out; the convertible refinement of the later BJ8 in a body that retains more of the early car’s elemental character, at lower prices due to its unfamiliarity to casual buyers. The triple-carburettor BN7 and BT7 are interesting primarily as historical curiosities; most specialists recommend converting the triple setup to twin SUs for everyday usability unless originality is paramount. The MkI preceded this generation; the MkIII BJ8 that followed it is the most well-known and most valuable 3000.