In this QCBAC Member Spotlight, I spent time with board member Sean Frey to learn the story behind his iconic 1962 3000 Mark II BT7 Tri-Carb Healey.
Sean has always had an affinity for cars, but none have captured his liking quite like Austin Healey. What truly fascinates him about this iconic Healey is its elegant design, seemingly transcending the era it was born into. The car's curves extend throughout, showcasing Donald Healey and Gerry Coker's design brilliance. During our time together, Sean explained how he enjoyed the Healey’s sporty handling; its low profile gives it a grounded, sturdy feel on the road. The lack of radio allows Sean to take in the wonderful sounds of the open road and the in-line six, tri-carb engine.
Sean explains how he has spent time becoming accustomed to the unique mechanics of his Austin Healey. He enjoys using the electronic overdrive switch during longer highway cruises, as it helps lower the RPMs and improves fuel efficiency. When making turns, Sean operates the turn signal switch located at the center of the steering wheel.
The spark
The story of Sean's relationship with the Austin Healey began in 1995, marking the first time he ever took a ride in the classic beauty. The opportunity arose through his best friend's father-in-law, Dennis, then-owner, who cultivated Sean's passion for classic British automobiles. This initial encounter with the Healey left a lasting impression on Sean, sparking the desire to own one someday.
A concours rebuild
The previous owners, Dennis and Eloise, were not only enthusiasts of the Austin Healey, but they also developed a friendship with the youngest Healey son, Brian "Bic" Healey. They hosted Bic in their Colorado home during the1992 Conclave.
Dennis and Eloise embarked on a meticulous journey to rebuild the Austin Healey, ensuring every detail was perfect. They stripped the car down to its core, examining each component discerningly. Their dedication to the process was evident as he painstakingly restored every part, selecting high-quality materials to enhance performance and aesthetics. Their vision was to transform the classic car into a concours show car, a testament to his craftsmanship and passion for automotive excellence. The result of Dennis and Eloise' work was not just a car; it became a work of art, reflecting their devotion and respect for the legacy of the Austin Healey.
(Picture Below: Dennis and Eloise 1982)
(Picture Below: Dennis and Eloise 2024)
The opportunity
Fast forward to 2023, during a business trip to Denver, Sean unexpectedly stumbled upon the chance to make his dream a reality. While visiting Dennis and Eloise, Sean was approached with the opportunity to take ownership the Healey. Initially, Sean was hesitant to pursue the purchase, assuming that such a cherished family heirloom would surely remain within the family. However, Dennis and Eloise, aware of Sean's deep appreciation and understanding of the Austin Healey's history, saw him as the ideal next caretaker of this prized possession.
Sean proudly took ownership of the car and named his Austin Healey “Eloize”, using the letter “Z” as a play on the 3000's rear lightning bolt emblem. This decision fulfilled a longtime desire and cemented a unique bond between Sean, the former owners, and Austin Healey.
The elegance
It's hard not to notice the car's unique characteristics, such as the stunning Healey Blue color that reflects its spirited personality. The iconic grill and wire wheels add a touch of elegance, showcasing a vintage charm. Emblems proudly display the brand's heritage, while the vehicle's distinct stance exudes an air of sportiness and agility. Together, these elements create a timeless allure that captivates onlookers, making them stop and take it all in.
Rich History
On the garage wall, beside the parked Austin Healey, Sean has hung memorabilia and items from the car's rich history.
A popular discussion topic about the car is the unique engravings on the driver-side door trim. The engravings pay tribute to the designer, engineer, and other individuals involved in the history of this specific Austin Healey.
Thank you Sean
I enjoyed spending time with Sean and getting to learn more about his incredible 1962 Austin Healey. It was a unique opportunity to not only hear Sean's story but also experience the thrill of riding in such an iconic car. Sean's passion for the Healey is infectious, and it is clear that this is the perfect British classic for him.
As of writing this, Sean remains an active and valued member of the QCBAC club. His contributions to our group have been invaluable, and everyone appreciates the time and effort he puts into making our community better. It's members like Sean who foster a sense of camaraderie and shared passion within the club, and I’m grateful to share in this journey with him and learn more about the beauty of classic British cars. Thank you Sean!
To learn more about the historic Austin Healey, check out my other exclusive QCBAC article here: https://www.qcbac.com/post/british-elegance-the-austin-healey
(Winter 2024)
Article written by Jay Thomas (with AI co-pilot)
Photography by Jay Thomas
Rebuild photos provided by Sean Frey
Citation
Wikipedia contributors. (2024, September 27). Austin-Healey 3000. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Austin-Healey_3000
Think-Admin. (2022, October 7). Austin Healey Specialists - Rawles Motorsport Austin Healey Restoration. Rawles Motorsport Austin Healey Restoration and Sales Specialists. https://rawlesmotorsport.co.uk/restoration/austin-healey-specialists/
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