Lot 161 - 1967 Austin Healey 3000 Mk. III
| Lot Number | 161 |
| Registration | OGX 312E |
| Chassis Number | 40582 |
| Engine Number | 15068 |
| Odometer reading | 91,373 miles |
| Result | Sold - £64,524 |
The Austin Healey was one the foundation blocks for one of the 1960s' most charismatic rally cars with the 3000 Mk. I introduced in March 1959. Powered by an enlarged 2,912cc straight-six engine that developed some 124bhp and offered in two-seater (BN7) or 2+2 seater (BT7) configurations, the progressively improved 3000 metamorphosed through Mk. II and Mk. IIa guises before the arrival of the ultimate Mk. III BJ8 in October 1963. After the stratospheric rise in Aston Martin and E-Type prices, the next British Sports car currently seeing early signs of investor interest is the Austin Healey 3000 Mk. III (Phase II). Like its competitors, the 2+2 seater BJ8 proved a comfortable and fast grand tourer but has the benefit of multiple upgrades and the ability to win silverware whenever driven in anger, has elevated it above its rivals.
Previously owned for 16 years by an Austin Healey collector who transformed the car into something very special having only travelled 4,000 miles (confirmed by documented MoT test certificates) whilst in his collection. The current owner continued to upgrade and improve with the addition of remotely adjustable 123 ignition system, uprated roll bars, a high efficiency radiator, cast aluminium sump, chrome wire wheels and new tyres. In addition, a new mohair soft top and tonneau were recently fitted by OTC together with a refurbished interior. The chassis has been thoroughly Waxoyled by Rawles Classic Cars who, incidentally, also completed all the mechanical upgrades. The car is stored in an air-conditioned cocoon and the bodywork and interior, like the mechanics, are in excellent condition.
The engine has done 4,500 miles since being completely refurbished when a fast road cam and triple Weber carburettors on Denis Welch inlet manifolds were also fitted. An Aluminium ‘Stage 2’ lead-free head was fitted by Bill Rawles just 1,800 miles ago; together with Denis Welch exhaust manifold and system, new clutch, oil cooler and high torque starter motor. Not to be left out, the brakes have been improved with the fitting of vented rear drums. The engine specification, as you may have some inkling, is based on the Healey works cars that Rauno Aaltonen and Timo Makinen had prodigious rally success in driving for the Healey works team in 1964.
All bills and MoT test certificates are contained in two comprehensive history files together with a spreadsheet summary (backed up by USB memory stick) of all work, costs and mileage. The quality and integrity of workmanship is impeccable with this superb example presenting in stunning condition. The thought gone into the upgrades are well-considered with no expense spared to workmanship. This now very special, fast-road example benefits from a Heritage Certificate drives beautifully and is, quite simply, one of the finest Austin Healey 3000, we have ever seen.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.