Established in 1952 by Austin and Donald Healey Motor Co.—Austin Healey proceeded to make some legendary cars until productions halted in 1972.
Perhaps the most famous Austin Healey vehicle is the Austin-Healey 3000. A fun story that reflects the vicious speed that the Austin-Healey 3000 presents comes from Donald Healey.
Testing out the new Austin-Healey 3000, Donald Healey apparently zoomed past an officer on a public road—and when the officer attempted to take chase, the officer could not keep up or even get close to the car.
Donald Healey ended up writing a letter to the police chief apologizing for his actions and recommended that the local police force buy some Austin-Healey’s to better keep up with speeding pedestrians. While the head declined the offer, he bought one for himself.
The Donald-Healey Motor Company raced Austin-Healeys extensively in Europe as well as the United States. 1965 marked the last SCAA National Championship race win for Austin Healey at the Daytona ARRC.
Austin Healey in Popular Culture
While Austin Healey production may have halted years ago, past cars still make regular appearances in pop culture programs.
In the 60s drama ‘Mad Men,’ Don Draper gets picked up by an Austin Healey at the airport by his wife, Megan. Don, a man of taste, simply remarks, “I like the car.”
Sitcoms such as Home Improvement in the 90s featured episode storylines where Tim Allen’s character got busted driving his wife’s Austin Healey.
Austin Healey has made movie appearances as well. In the 2007 film Transformers, Sam’s father owns and drives a 1961 Austin Healy 3000.
Other Than the 3000…
While the Austin Healey 3000 tends to get all the attention from car fanatics, there are a few other models worth mentioning.
With a creative boom during the 1960s, Austin Healey produced select vehicles such as the 1967 BJ8. With two roomy seats, a convertible top, and a sporty look, the 1967 Austin Healey BJ8 drives like a dream.
If you’re lucky enough to own a classic Austin Healey 3000, reach out to our buyers. Our buyers can give you a valuation or appraisal of your Austin Healey 3000 in person or often via the Internet. You can find out what your Austin Healey 3000 is worth, get a “fast cash offer” from us and make a decision. It’s easy!