To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION
Estimate:
$50,000 - $60,000
- Finished in attractive dark green with a black interior and
soft top
- Well-preserved, older restoration
- Last year for the "big" Healey; British motoring at its
best
- An excellent driver-quality example
- Please note this lot will need to be collected from Palm
Desert, CA
The Austin-Healey 3000 MK3 BJ8 was the last production year of the
Austin Healey 3000, commonly known as the "Big Healey" due to the
large 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine it boasts. Paired to a
four-speed manual transmission with an electronically switched
overdrive, this Healey is truly a blast to drive and be seen
in.
At a distance one would consider its all black interior to be in
great condition. The seat leather and stitching (front and rear)
are original and in great condition. The carpets have been replaced
by a previous owner reflective insulation was added for improved
heat and sound characteristics. The all-original dash is in great
condition. However, the door panels have seen a little more wear
than the rest of the interior. On both panels, one will notice some
small patches and repairs that keep with the original look but are
obviously repairs. A previous owner also separated the drive pedals
to make it easier to drive if mobility is a concern.
Currently wearing its second coat of British Racing Green, the
consignor states that the paint is in great condition. No major
chips or blemishes are present except for one small chip down below
the door. All chrome bumpers and trim accents are in great
condition. It is fitted with a rear luggage rack and front
badge-bar with running lights. The vinyl on the newer reproduction
convertible top is in great condition with no holes or cracks in
the rear window. Top up or top down, this is a looker set to
impress.
The original six-cylinder engine housed in a clean engine bay,
mated to a four-speed transmission with and electronically switched
overdrive on the dash. Points have been upgraded to Petronics but
otherwise everything else keeps with the OEM look. Getting into
first gear can be difficult at times but otherwise shifts well
especially at speed. The dual exhaust only adds to the British
sports car flair.
Looking underneath the car, surface rust is present, although the
consignor states that this is not major, and the original paintwork
can be found on its undercarriage. The car does leak a little bit
of oil at the seal, so there can be a little bit of oil clean up
from time to time. Front end sound and handles very well.
This can be considered a well-cared for and well-maintained
driver-quality example. Having lived most of its life on the west
coast, this vehicle has seen very little wear and tear over the
years. If you're looking for a reliable, good looking, long lasting
driver, this is the Austin-Healey for you.
To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction,
please visit the RM website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/0120.