The Remarkable Stories of Restored Austin Healeys at John Chatham Cars
At John Chatham Cars, our passion lies in restoring Austin Healeys to their former glory. With a rich history of working on these iconic British sports cars, we pride ourselves on our meticulous craftsmanship and dedication to preserving automotive heritage.
Here are a few stories of the exceptional Austin Healeys we’ve had the privilege to restore, making them roadworthy once again and bringing joy to their owners.
1959 Austin Healey 3000 Mk I: The Original Big Healey
The 1959 Austin Healey 3000 Mk I, often referred to as the “Big Healey,” is a car that embodies the spirit of British motoring. When this particular model arrived at our workshop, it was clear that it had seen better days.
Our team undertook a comprehensive restoration, addressing both mechanical and aesthetic aspects. The engine was carefully rebuilt, the bodywork was restored to its original lines, and the interior was reupholstered with the finest materials. The result was a 3000 Mk I that not only performed impeccably but also captured the elegance of its era.
1962 Austin Healey 3000 Mk II: The epitome of British style
The Austin Healey 3000 Mk II is known for its refined design and improved performance over its predecessor. We had the honor of restoring a 1962 model, which came to us in a state of disrepair. Our restoration process included a full engine rebuild, rust removal, and bodywork restoration, as well as an interior overhaul.
The car’s transformation was stunning, with its sleek lines and powerful engine restored to their original splendor. Seeing the 3000 Mk II back on the road, roaring with the same enthusiasm it had in the 1960s, was incredibly satisfying.
1964 Austin Healey 3000 Mk III: The ultimate evolution
The 1964 Austin Healey 3000 Mk III represents the pinnacle of the “Big Healey” series, with significant improvements in comfort and performance.
We recently restored a Mk III, focusing on both performance and aesthetics. The engine was fully rebuilt, ensuring reliable and spirited driving. The body was meticulously restored, and a fresh coat of paint brought back its vibrant color. The interior was refurbished to match the car’s original specifications, creating a nostalgic driving experience. The Mk III’s restoration was a testament to our commitment to preserving the character and charm of classic British roadsters.
1956 Austin Healey 100M: The racing legend
The Austin Healey 100M is a rare and highly sought-after model, known for its racing pedigree and performance enhancements. A 1956 100M came to us in need of significant attention. Our team performed a complete engine rebuild, addressing the wear and tear that comes with age.
The bodywork was carefully restored, with attention to detail that ensured the car’s original design was preserved. The interior was updated with period-correct materials, creating a cabin that felt both classic and refreshed. The 100M’s revival was a labor of love, and seeing it back on the road was a highlight for our team.
1958 Austin Healey Sprite: The Frogeye Marvel
The 1958 Austin Healey Sprite, affectionately known as the “Frogeye” or “Bugeye,” is a charming and iconic British sports car. Restoring this little gem was a special project for us. The car arrived in our workshop with a tired engine and worn-out bodywork.
Our skilled technicians rebuilt the engine, restored the bodywork, and refurbished the interior with the highest quality materials. The Sprite emerged from our workshop as a stunning example of automotive artistry, ready to turn heads and provide a thrilling driving experience.
Preserving history, one Healey at a time
At John Chatham Cars, every restoration project is a journey through time. We take pride in preserving the legacy of these incredible Austin Healeys, ensuring they remain a source of joy and inspiration for future generations. Each car we restore has a story, and being part of that story is an honor we cherish deeply.
If you have an Austin Healey that needs restoration or just want to witness the magic of our work, visit us at John Chatham Cars. Let’s keep these automotive legends alive, one restoration at a time.
Join us on our journey
Follow us on social media to stay updated on our latest projects and see the stunning transformations we bring to life. Share your own Healey stories with us – we’d love to hear them. Here’s to the love of classic cars and the joy of restoration!
John Chatham Cars – Where Austin Healeys are Reborn.