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1965 | Austin-Healey 3000 BJ8 Mk III

1965 | Austin-Healey 3000 BJ8 Mk III

Technical Information

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Lot Number:4551
Year:1965
Make:Austin-Healey
Model:3000 BJ8 Mk III
Trim:3000
Mileage:94258
Drivetrain:RWD
VIN:HBJ8L23985
Transmission:Manual
Engine:2.9L Inline-Six
Body Style:Convertible
Location:Grand Rapids, Michigan 49548
Title Status:Clean
Seller Type:Dealer
Exterior Color:Red/Black
Interior Color:Black

Overview

This 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 BJ8 Mk III shows the beloved British roadster at its best. Refreshed paint and driveline offer this example as a sublime driver with enthusiast modifications. Red and Black over Black upholstery, its convertible cabin nets wood dash trim, Smiths gauges, and a Moto-Lita steering wheel. A scooped hood, vented fenders, and rally lights complete period motorsport looks while its 2,912cc mill breathes freely with help from triple Weber 45DCOE carbs. PerTronix electronic ignition, a Warnerford intake manifold, and finned valve cover complete this car’s clean engine compartment. Power is routed rearward by 4-speed manual shifting w/overdrive, connecting with the road via 15” knock-off wire wheels clad in Vredestein Sprint Classic tires. Stopping power matches grip with front disc-brakes. Sold with a clean title, Seller’s Disclosure and period literature, this Mk III offers high-grade vintage thrills.
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Following Austin-Healey’s 100 model roadsters of the 1950s, the marque’s unveiled a new contender for the coming decade in 1959. The 3000, or ‘Big Healey’ as it would come to be known, yielded three variants over its illustrious eight-year production. The definitive high-performance sportscar of its day, all MK I-III 3000’s carried inline-six power, race-proven suspension design, and timeless styling.
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The car’s final MK III/BJ8 offering culminated in its highest output then-to-date paired with 2+2 seating. Beginning in 1964, late production examples featured 150hp, improved ground clearance, and a 125mph top speed. Double-wishbone front/semi-elliptical leaf rear suspension lent both to engaging handling and refined road manners. Remembered today as the peak ascension of founder Donald Healey’s British roadster—and his last with the company—the BJ8 carries the spirit of Austin Healey’s storied legacy to the present day.
 

Features & Options

  • Red/Black exterior paint
  • Black interior
  • Wood dash trim
  • 2.9L inline-six engine
  • 4-speed manual transmission
  • Smiths instruments
  • 15" knock-off wire wheels
  • Vredestein Sprint Classic tires

Modifications

  • Rally style grille, lights & vented fenders
  • Triple Weber 45 DCOE carburetors
  • Warneford intake manifold,
  • Finned valve cover
  • PerTronix electronic ignition
  • Front disc brakes
  • Upgraded suspension
  • Moto-Lita steering wheel
  • Lucas amp gauge

Service Records

  • Seller's Disclosure
  • Service records from previous ownership
    • Oil pan gaskets, side cover gasket, and timing cover gaskets replaced in 2019
    • Gearbox and rear axle resealed in 2019
    • Electric overdrive rebuilt in 2015 
    • Whole-car repaint, side windows replaced 
 

Ownership History & Provenance

Partially restored under previous ownership, this well-kept Austin-Healey is currently located with the selling dealer in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Known Shortcomings

Sotheby's Motorsport presents this auction in partnership with the selling dealer. This Austin-Healey BJ8 Mk III shows wear consistent with its age and mileage according to a Seller's Disclosure. Please review the entire document by clicking "Seller's Disclosure" above.
  • Undercarriage shows some corrosion, small patch plate welded to frame
  • Dash trim finish aged/cracking

Items included in the Sale

  • 4 keys w/leather fobs
  • Owner's manual & service books
  • Period literature
  • Service records from previous ownership
  • Car cover

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