Fantasy Junction

Description

1964 Austin Healey 3000 Mk. III
S/n HBJ8L26434, Engine No. 29K/RU AH1390
White with Black interior

The ultimate development of Donald Healey’s inspired joint venture with BMC’s Leonard Lord, the six-cylinder Austin-Healey 3000 epitomized the classic British sports car concept. Later examples of the “Big Healey” such as this one beautifully combine the classically distilled sports car ethos of the earlier cars with elements added over several production cycles in an effort to heighten the practicality, comfort and livability of one of England’s quintessential sports cars. Launched in October of 1963, the Mark III cars were the most powerful and luxurious of the 3000 model-run. Designated the BJ8, these 2+2 cars were fitted with such luxury items as a standard walnut dashboard, wind-up windows and overdrive. Power in the Mk III cars was also raised from the earlier cars to around 150 horsepower through the fitment of twin SU HD8 carburetors, a new exhaust system and a new camshaft and valve springs. To counteract this newly added power, servo-assisted brakes were made standard on the Mk III cars, as they were optional on earlier models.

This particular example is highly original showing its fifty years of age with a characterful charm seldom seen. The car is an early “phase one” left hand drive North American export model. The known history of the car begins in 1970 when a couple acquired the car in Reno, Nevada while on their honeymoon. The two enjoyed the car for four years until the arrival of their first child at which time the car was retired to storage. The car remained in storage until 2012, when the car was acquired by noted marque experts Tom and Randee Rocke of Healey Lane. Rather than fully restore the car, Healey Lane chose to preserve its originality and expertly reconditioned the paint and interior. At this same time, they also thoroughly inspected, cleaned and serviced the car’s mechanicals, which included a rebuild of the carburetors, the fitment of a new exhaust system and a general tune of the engine. Due to the car’s very sound condition, none of the body panels were removed during the reconditioning of the car.

The car presents as highly original and full of character thanks to its preservation and low indicated mileage of just under 22,000 miles. Exterior paint shows wear and aging in places, but overall is well-preserved. Throughout the exterior, the car’s bright work is quite good with only a few small spots of wear on the left portions of the grille and headlight surround. The car’s interior is similarly original with what is believed to be completely original upholstery and dashboard. In the engine bay, the car’s originality is further visible with excellent work having been done to preserve it. Throughout, factory-painted fluid lines remain intact and BMC manufacturer’s tags are also in place. Also included with the car are tools, spare tire and jack in the trunk.

Overall, this “Big Healey” is an superbly preserved and highly original example inside and out. Because of its originality and good running and driving condition, the car is an ideal vehicle for a preservation-minded enthusiast and would make such a buyer very happy. Likewise, the car’s originality would also make it an ideal basis for restoration. In either case, this characterful and highly original Healey 3000 presents very honestly and is ready to be restored or enjoyed as is.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608