1967 Austin-Healey

The 1960s was a great time to play with sports cars as it seemed that everyone had a horse in the race.  Maserati, Ferrari, Mercedes Benz, and of course Jaguar all offered great cars that were sleek, powerful, and in many cases nicely fitted with a great interior for touring.  Along with the great cars was Austin Healey, who had introduced their 3000 series cars in 1959.  These quickly became known as the “Big Healeys” due to their large six-cylinder engines.  Bodies for the 3000 were built by Jensen Motors with assembly taking place at British Motor Corporation’s Abingdon Works plant.  The Austin 3000 was a spirited performer right from the start with a 2912 cc inline six cylinder engine fitted with twin SU carburetors.  Testing of the new 3000 yielded great results with a top speed of 115 mph.  Clearly the Austin 3000 was a car destined for competition and it soon won its class in many European rallies.  In the present day, the Austin Healy 3000 is still a car to be reckoned with at many vintage racing events.

The Austin Healy 3000 pictured here is a spectacular example of this legendary car and is offered here after being retained by the same owner since the early 1970s.  Officially known as the Mark III and designated as the BJ8, this stellar example has the Le Mans style air vents on the side and also sports a chrome side pipe exhaust.  Chrome wire wheels complete the classic British sports car styling of this Healey and it’s also finished in a beautiful gleaming red coat of paint.  Power for this 3000 Mark III comes from a 150 horsepower inline six fitted with twin SU carburetors.  Standard equipment on the Mark III also included a walnut-veneer dashboard and roll up windows.  Clearly the 3000 was becoming a highly refined sports car in its final years and this Mark III proves it.

The Austin Healey 3000 was the right car at the right time.  It was always known as a great weekend touring car, but its success at places like Sebring and Le Mans made it a legend in its own time.  This example with its excellent condition and special features makes it a stand out in the crowd.  If your collection is missing that classic British sports car, this is the Mark III that deserves a special place in a world class collection.