Quickly surpassing its predecessor, the Mk.II of the Austin Healey featured a lot of improvements, from a new bonnet and grille set-up to a more powerful engine. This example has been totally restored with its special Ruddspeed engine at the centre of its restoration. Not only is this a rare and sort after classic, but it is eligible for classic rallies and has a wonderful history of doing such. Now it’s time to get behind the wheel and experience the joys of classic motoring.

Leaving the Austin factory in 1962 this 3000 Mk IIA has had an astonishing past. Being tuned in period by the legendary Ruddspeed this Healey now has even more power. Competing in the Tulip Rally, SLS, and Sauerland Rally, it has been used properly. This racing history is present today and even some of the original trophies can be found in the boot.

In 1966 the car goes through a crash that caused ‘irreparable damage’. As such the car goes into hiding in a barn and it lies there silently for nearly 30 years. But, in 1990, it comes out of hiding and the lengthy process of restoration could begin. At the time of purchase, this previous owner did not know its historic significance. With a bit of digging, they worked it out and even enlisted the help of the first owner to help with the restoration. Due to its mentioned irreparable damage, a lot of work had to be undertaken. The decision was made to build a new body and chassis around the original engine. At the time of restoration, the paint was changed to this fetching silver 

Under the bonnet is no normal 2.9l inline six. Back in the 1960s, Ken Rudd’s Ruddspeed tuning company were able to increase the car's power from just over 100hp to 178bhp. In terms of percentage, it was nearly a 50% increase from the original. To achieve this a lot of the internals were improved along with an extra SU carburettor.

Although the original chassis and body were beyond repair the original Ruddspeed engine and gearbox were saved and rebuilt. Along with a larger radiator and aluminium fuel tank this example is ready to compete at ten-tenths on some historic rallies.

This vehicle was for sale on Car and Classic in Dec 2022, bidding reached €75,000 but the reserve wasn’t met.
https://www.carandclassic.com/auctions/1962-austin-healey-3000-mkii-ruddspeed-rally-car-lhd-8GKLP8

Ruddspeed Serial Number: N/A

We would love to hear from anyone has more information on the car or would like to add to the history please feel free to contact us here at Ruddspeed.
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