While the BJ7 isn't the highest rated Healey, using price guidelines as a
measure, it isn't the lowest either. Some of that is due to the first models
having three carbs which owners screwed around with and, as someone has said,
are better adjusted correctly and then left alone. Another reason it isn't
esteemed as highly is that in terms of the marque, it's neither this nor that.
The rear "seats" might appeal to a 6-year old or a teenager looking for love
but for everyone else they're just inefficient storage space. It doesn't have
the dashboard, the radio or the power of the Mark III's (they are also
heavier) and it doesn't have the chinese puzzle top and windscreens of the
earlier models which keeps it from being a real roadster for those who care
about such things.
It's walking a tightrope to recommend a car to someone when they are really
buying one specific car which will have it's own specific and significant
challenges rather than an archetype, but the best thing to do, as always, is
to join a club or six and get a ride in a couple of them. Go to one of the
meets this summer and talk to owners. I've never refused a ride to an
enthusiast and I don't know anyone who has other than a few investment owners
who are seeking concours ratings for resale. Give the data collection stage a
year before you jump. Cars are always coming onto the market. You've got
more options than you might think. Believe me, the money you spend on the
clubs and meets will be paid back multiple times.
Just MHO,
Bill, BJ7, Chimera, who thinks he's the best Healey ever. Even after getting
the "Tough Luck" award from Donald himself after driving to his first meet.
Don't ask why.
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