The Austin-Healey marque's genesis was that of the Healey Hundred,
shown originally by Donald Healey at the 1952 Earls Court Motor
Show in London. While Austin was not involved in the concept, Board
Chairman Leonard Lord saw the car and its reaction from the press
prior to the public opening of the show. That evening a deal
between the two men and their companies was formed at the famed
Dorchester Hotel in London: giving birth to the Austin-Healey
brand. The marque's sleek design and proper British Motoring set up
resulted in strong sales throughout Europe and North America. With
time powertrains evolved from inline four cylinders to straight
sixes displacing nearly three liters, the latter of which carried
the name Austin-Healey 3000. The last of the 3000 models was the Mk
III manufactured through the 1967 model year. Also known as BJ8,
the model is known for its luxuriously appointed interior with roll
up windows and burl walnut dash inserts. BJ8's represents the last
of the "big Healey's" and to many are the pinnacle of the
marque!
The 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III (BJ8) Roadster presented here is
a true masterpiece, finished in the stunning and iconic British
Racing Green, complemented by a refined black interior and matching
black convertible top. According to the accompanying British Motor
Industry Heritage Certificate, this Austin-Healey 3000 was
completed at the Abingdon, England works on October 27, 1967, and
shipped to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the following month.
Originally finished in Metallic Golden Beige, the car underwent a
mechanical and cosmetic restoration in the 1990's during which the
exterior surfaces and jambs were refinished in timeless British
Racing Green. Traces of the original paint remain visible in the
engine compartment today, while the undersides of the trunk lid and
hood maintain the exterior BRG finish. Per the consignor the
Austin-Healey has been in collector ownership since the 1980s. The
previous owner acquired the BJ8 in May 2001 from a successful St.
Louis Business Owner. It was under this owner's passion for the
marquee that the restoration commenced with the suspension and
brakes overhauled. Additionally, the numbers matching engine &
overdrive gearbox were rebuilt to like new standards. It was during
a spring 2001 drive when the previous owner saw the Austin-Healey
sitting in his neighbor's driveway and fondly remembered the
Austin-Healey 3000 he had in his college years. The car was sold on
the spot and was enjoyed by the previous owner for the next 7
years. Used as the occasional Sunday driver, the Healey was always
stored indoors when not being driven; a routine maintained by its
current owner.
Since 2008, this Austin-Healey has been cherished by a
well-respected local collector, who has been actively involved in
the regional British motoring scene. IT'S ALIVE! has had the
privilege of servicing the car since 2021, ensuring that it
continues to perform at its best with routine maintenance. Under
our care, we have conducted routine oil changes and tune-ups, along
with key service upgrades such as the installation of a PerTronix
Electronic Ignition module, the replacement of the engine oil pan
gasket, and the servicing of the clutch hydraulics and brave
servo.
Our team has also paid close attention to the car's visual appeal,
enhancing both the exterior and interior. The exterior features a
newly fitted convertible top, various trim replacements, and a
fully replated chrome Austin-Healey grille. Inside, the car has
been significantly upgraded with the installation of Dynamat sound
insulation beneath new carpet, along with the replacement of the
veneered wooden dash inserts and padded dashtop. Additionally, a
new folding convertible top with a zip-out rear window has been
installed, and a full tonneau cover is included to elevate the
driving experience even further.
A standout feature is the newly fitted polished stainless steel
exhaust system from Moss Motors' prestigious Tourist Trophy line,
which, paired with the gleaming chrome 72-spoke wire wheels,
ensures this 3000 Mk III performs superbly while turning heads at
every corner. The exterior is further enhanced with desirable
options, including both right and left-hand rearview mirrors, a
chrome luggage rack, and a front badge bar with twin LUCAS fog
lights, all adding to the car's stunning presence. Total expenses
over time exceed $20,000 USD! The 5-digit odometer shows a total of
92,000 miles, believed to be the car's original mileage since new.
This is supported by the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust
Certificate, which confirms that both the engine and
overdrive-equipped four-speed gearbox are matching numbers from the
car's original configuration.
IT'S ALIVE! is proud to present this beautifully cared-for,
impeccably performing Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III Phase II BJ8, one
of the final examples of the marque's legendary production run. If
you are ready to become the next steward of this iconic classic, do
not hesitate to reach out to us at 314-710-6600 or email us at
[email protected]. This is your chance to own a true piece of
British motoring history!
