Vehicle Description
Motorcar Studio is pleased to offer this 1965 Austin-Healey 3000
Mark III. As the final iteration of the 3000, the BJ8 "sports
convertible" is the most desirable of the Big Healeys thanks to
creature comforts like roll-up windows (and a convertible top that
actually works) plus improved carbs and cam for better performance
out of the inline six. This example is an honest and original
driver that has been with the same owner for nearly 45 years, a
now-retired airline pilot. He saw it parked at a gas station in
Atlanta with a "for sale" sign back in 1974 - like all young
pilots, he was in the market for a sports car and snapped it up. He
had the engine and transmission overhauled in 1979 and has driven
it about 1,000 miles each year since.
Remarkably straight and solid with original floors and no known
rust. Bumpers, trim and badges are in nice original condition with
only light patina. Convertible top, full tonneau and boot cover all
in good shape. Driver-quality repaint in tan some years ago; nice
gaps. Wire wheels were restored and balanced when the car was
restored (and are still in great shape and roll smoothly at highway
speeds - they're wearing Vredestein sprint classics).
Interior, finished in red vinyl, is original. All surfaces show a
charming patina but are not shabby. Upper dash pad is nice; wood
veneer on dash face is cracked but largely intact. All gauges,
lights and switches are working. The Becker Europa stereo was a
mid-1970s addition and is working, with supplemental speakers
hidden under the dash.
Under the hood lies the original 3 liter inline six mated to a
four-speed manual gearbox with overdrive. Clutch and gearbox feel
good with no crunchy synchros and the overdrive unit works
properly. Engine and transmission were rebuilt along with a new
clutch 40k miles ago. Starts, runs and drives well and has been
meticulously maintained with the precision you would expect from a
former A&P and pilot. Recent oil service, coolant flush,
tune-up and brake system overhaul.
This Healey starts, runs and drives well and is turn-key
mechanically for its next owner. Sold on its 1974-issued Georgia
title. For more information about this 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mark
III for sale at Motorcar Studio in Atlanta, please call
404-692-5250.
