classic vintage chrome British English green black wire wheels restored roadster

1965 Austin Healey 3000 Mark III BJ8 -- Description

This 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mark III BJ8 has that beautiful classic British look - right down to the color. And the right investments to this icon has been made along the way so that it retains the pure driving experience that's always calling you out to the open road. British Racing Green is always the color of choice on a proper English sports car. This one truly is fitting of its elevated status. The Big Healey, one of... the most gracious styles of its time with a style line that started at the headlight and had a gentle arc that flowed through the door. The rear fenders are just as artful as they rise above the trunk line. You can see all of this so well because of the exceptional panel fit of this example. There was just the right amount of brightwork to attract an American audience on places like the wide grille, shining bumpers, and door tops. This example also retains all the great European details, too, like the fender-mounted side mirrors and bright trunk hinges. And of course, it's not a true classic European sports car without wire wheels with genuine knock-off hubs. These cars are meant to be open to the world, and so the black interior looks terrific against the dark green exterior. The BJ8 series was the final run for this storied design, and these are sought-after today for some of the upgrades given to this swan song. The walnut veneer trim is exclusive to these later cars. So is the comfort of the padded console in-between the bucket seats. Owning a later Healey also adds in plenty of practicality. After all, these have a full convertible top and roll-up windows. The rear seats are a nice occasional use for children or luggage. There are a few interesting additions, like the CB radio and an upgraded wood and chrome steering wheel. But what we know you really love is the pure driving experience that comes from the gearshift is in that perfect resting position for your right hand. Nothing quite compares to the hum of the motor as you watch the Smiths gauges dance. Another example of why the final series of this car is so desirable is the motor. The 2.9-liter inline six was upgraded with larger twin SU carburetors. This yielded a 14% boost in power to push it to 150 HP - the most powerful Austin-Healey ever. So it's great to have what's believed to be the original unit still under the hood today. It has been rebuilt along the way to help ensure this runs strong. The throaty baritone from this heightened motor is exactly why everyone wants a Big Healey. You can keep this sound going for as long as you want because the four-speed manual gearbox gives you complete control. But the best part is the last of the Austin-Healeys were also built for the long trips as well, so there is an electronic overdrive. Plus, the nimble handling and front disc brakes make this a great any time companion. The sale comes with the owner's manual, maintenance records, title documentation, and British Motor Industry Heritage Trust certificate. It's a true classic that's also a strong runner, so don't miss this deal. Call now!