Registration - MFO 812

Chassis No. - HBT74420

M.O.T - Exempt

Odometer - TBC

This attractive early BT7 was supplied new to its first keeper, a Mr Raymond Hoskins of Plymouth, by the local dealer Elliott & Sons of Bideford, whose nameplate remains on the car to this day. That is one of a number of signs that this matching numbers car remains more original than many classics in today’s marketplace. It is finished in its original colour of Colorado Red that’s matched to black-piped red interior trim and a beige-coloured hood. ‘MFO 812’ has been in the vendor’s care for the last two years, during which he has invested heavily in improving its mechanics. In particular, the overdrive gearbox has been reconditioned and the SU carburettors uprated with new parts. Other items that have been replaced include: the water pump and housing; radiator; exhaust downpipe; starter motor (it now has a high torque one); alternator; fuel pump; sump (this now an alloy example); overdrive solenoid; rear wheel brake linings and cylinders, and front calipers; dampers all-round; kingpins and bushes; door cards. In addition, the seats have been recovered. The vendor now considers the engine, transmission, bodywork, paintwork and upholstery to all be in ‘good’ order, and is selling the ‘Big’ Healey complete with its original buff log book, Heritage Certificate and an extensive history file containing invoices and a selection of old tax discs and MOTs.

Following its launch, the ‘Big’ Healey enjoyed steady development, with the early four-cylinder cars giving way to the 100-Six in 1956, and the first of the 3000s in 1959. By now engine capacity had risen to 2912cc and power output to 124bhp. By the time of the MKII’s appearance in 1961, 2,825 (two-seat) BN7s and 10,825 (four-seat) BT7s had been produced.

In summary:

• An apparently pleasingly original early home market BT7
• Comes complete with buff log book and Heritage Certificate
• The recipient of lots of recent maintenance