• Extensively modified by Ken Rudd • Featured in contemporary road tests • In-period competition history • Eligible for numerous Historic events and series While most enthusiasts would have found their Austin-Healey 3000 adequately powerful, well known AC tuning specialist Ken Rudd believed there was a market for a package of performance enhancements.

Using his bolt-on 'goodies' Rudd was able to increase maximum power to 178 bhp, up from the stock 130 horsepower.

Costing £86, Rudd's transformational package represented excellent value for money when compared to the car's £1,168 purchase price.

Rudd's engine modifications included a skimmed cylinder head; machined and polished ports and combustion chamber; pocketed block (just like the works cars); and re-cut valve seats.

A high-lift camshaft and a triple-SU carburettor setup completed the picture.

(The engine number's AEC prefix is believed to stand for Austin Experimental Competition.) For an additional £37 you could purchase a h...