Austin-Healey 3000 MkIII BJ8 Phase 2

Click Here for Full Screen Image - Click Here to Download Image

Launched to rave reviews in 1959, the 'Big Healey' has gone on to become perhaps the most iconic and sought after of all the hairy-chested British sportscars of the 1960s.

Particularly popular on the North American market, the Austin-Healey 3000 (Mk I) introduced a number of improvements to the already successful 100-6. The change of model name heralded the more powerful 2,912cc BMC C-Series engine whose 124bhp propelled the car to a top speed of nearly 120mph.

Other improvements included front disc brakes, independent front suspension, wire wheels as standard, and a choice of either 2-seater or 2+2 body styles. Options included a detachable hardtop roof and overdrive transmission. The 3000 Mk I remained in production until the arrival of the triple-carb132bhp MkII in 1961, soon followed by a MkIIA with wind-up windows, a wrap-around windscreen and a convertible hood but just two carbs.

The final and ultimate production development of the 3000 range arrived in 1964, the Mk III. With 150bhp and 165lbft of torque now on tap, its 124mph top speed was accessed via a four-speed manual gearbox with optional Laycock overdrive on 3rd and 4th – effectively a six-speed box for effortless cruising at sustained high speeds.

Servo-assisted brakes were now fitted as standard, and only 2+2 versions were available with Ambla vinyl seats also standard. The rest of the interior was more luxurious than before with more comfortable seats, a nice wood veneered dashboard and a new centre console/gear surround.

In May 1964 the Phase 2 version of the MkIII was released, which benefited from redesigned rear suspension, strengthened splined hubs, improved ground clearance and larger diameter front disc brakes. A sensation right from the start, this really was a case of a good car just getting better and better.

Dating from the last year of manufacture, this 1967 BJ8 benefits from all the refinements that were made to the model during its nine-year production life. Imported from America earlier this year, it is said to be in very good and highly correct condition throughout. The vendor rates the dark green paintwork as “flawless” and states that the bodywork is “dead straight with excellent panel gaps and excellent chrome”.

He rates the black interior in similar high fashion, believing it to be original and testament to many years of careful ownership. A new hood has recently been fitted along with new chrome wire wheels and tyres. All gauges are reported to function correctly with the speedometer having been recently recalibrated.

Mechanically the car is also said to be in very good health with a smooth, quiet engine, fully functioning overdrive gearbox and a tight, rattle-free ride. Recently serviced and with an MOT to November 2015, this stunning Big Healey is ready for a new owner to drive home today.