Lot 278 - 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk. III BJ8 (Phase I)

• Nut and Bolt restoration in 2015
• Maintained by Bill Rawles

The Austin-Healey 3000 was built from 1959 to 1967 and is the best known of the 'big' Healey models. The car's bodywork was made by Jensen Motors and the vehicles were assembled at the BMC Abingdon works. The 3000 was a successful car which won its class in many European rallies during its heyday and also ran at Le Mans during that period. As such, it is still used in competition by enthusiasts today. The 3000 Mk. 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 150bhp engine. Improvements to the engine included a revised camshaft, valve springs and twin SU 2" HD8 carburettors together with a redesigned exhaust system and servo-assisted brakes.

This fabulous example of a 'big Healey' is offered in near flawless Colorado Red coachwork over white with black leather trim. The car has covered just 1,278 miles since a full and comprehensive nut and bolt restoration. Originally delivered new to New Orleans, Louisiana in March 1964, this car was specified from new with wire wheels, heater, an adjustable steering column, laminated windscreen and overdrive. After spending many years in the U.S. the car was then exported to New Zealand where it was owned by Mr. Bagnall. In 2014 Mr. Bagnall began a full restoration which is photographed and detailed in the history file with accompanying invoices from Dunedin Engine and R&R Moss. The key to the restoration was to retain originality and some 44 years later the original radio is still in place and works! Upon completion the car was then sent to Mr. Bagnall's brother in the UK before the current vendor purchased the car in spring of 2017 after it was recommended by a good friend. Since our vendor has owned the car he has commissioned Bill Rawles to maintain it and taken the time to fettle the car, ironing out any snag point from the restoration, this included rebuilding the overdrive until in 2017. The car now presents as new and we are told drives fabulously. Within the history file is a copy of the Heritage Certificate alongside various invoices from restoration works and more recent maintenance. Big Healey's in such condition and with originality are few and far between, as such viewing of this splendid BJ8 Mk. III is highly recommended.