Originally the "big" Healey was
the
Austin Healey 100 with its 2.6-liter four cylinder motor
established from the
Austin Atlantic.
The Healey was not seen as a sophisticated vehicle with
its separate chassis, cam-and-peg steering and solid rear
axle.
In
1956 the six-cylinder BMC series C engine was
used in a stretch version of this car to make the 100/6.
But this car was not that successful with performance
being down.
Along came the 3000 MkI in
1959. Performance increased
to 183 km/h and new disc brakes certainly improved the
stopping power.
From this point on the cars were two-plus-two only and
could be easily recognised by the vertical-slat front
grille.
Austin saved the best for last with the
1964 MkIII.
Brakes were better and the interior boasted a rather opulent
wooden dash.
The United States was seen as the car's biggest market
which ironically brought the downfall of the 3000 due
to strict safety legislation. It was replaced by the less
successful MGC.
Despite its low ground clearance the 3000
was a remarkable works rally car and remains a very sought-after
car in Britain and Australia.