Fantasy Junction

Description

1967 Austin-Healey 3000 Mark III BJ8
s/n HBJ8L39561, Engine no. 29K-RU-H/929
Metallic Golden Beige with Bordeaux Leather Interior

The 3000 Mark III was launched in October 1963, and remained in production until the end of 1967 when production of Austin-Healeys ceased. Classified as the BJ8, the new model was the most powerful and luxurious of the big Healeys, with a walnut-veneer dash, wind-up windows, and a 150 hp (112 kW) engine. Improvements to the engine from earlier cars included a new camshaft and valve springs, and twin SU 2\" HD8 carburetors, together with a new design of exhaust system. Servo-assisted brakes were now fitted as standard. Option extras were similar to those offered for the Mark II, the main change being that the standard interior trim was now Ambla vinyl, with leather seats being added to the list of options. In May 1964 the Phase II version of the Mark III was released, which had a modified rear chassis to allow rear ground clearance to be increased, among other minor improvements.

As a 3000 Mark III Phase II, this car represents the final evolution of the 3000 platform. The subject of a comprehensive 2005 restoration by Austin Healey specialist Kurt Tanner, it could simply not present better, above or below.

As indicated by original factory documentation, this strapping Austin-Healey completed construction on December 6, 1966, and was dispatched to the US in February 1967. While little is known of the car’s intermediate history, it is certain that in more recent years it came into the hands of recognized West Coast restorer Kurt Tanner.

In January 2005, while several of his award-winning Healeys were being offered for sale during the annual Scottsdale auctions, Mr. Tanner was approached by the previous owner who had fallen in love with a car Mr. Tanner had restored. Enamored with the Metallic Golden Beige paint and red interior color scheme, the previous owner commissioned Mr. Tanner to deliver him an identically liveried Healey. Selecting this mechanically potent BJ8 as his subject, Mr. Tanner treated the car to a restoration which included refurbishing the engine, transmission, suspension, brakes and all ancillary mechanical systems. The wiring harness was restored and all body panels were removed for a proper bare-metal blasting and repaint in the requested colors. The undercarriage and engine bay were cleaned and detailed, and the interior was completely refurbished in the appropriate Bordeaux leather.

After taking delivery of this finely restored Big Healey convertible, the previous owner drove it sparingly, but has ensured that the car remains in a fresh state of tune and cosmetic presentation under the supervision of his attentive collection manager.

Fitted with a black vinyl soft top and accompanied by a convertible boot, a matching tonneau, tools and a matching chrome wire-wheel spare, this enchanting 3000 Mark III continues to display the exceptional details of its impressive condition. It is an attractively finished and cosmetically spectacular example that is ideally prepared for concours competition or group tours and would make a fine addition for the most discriminating collector of British sports cars.

Included with the sale is the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate.

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