Vehicle 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 original 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!
