Vehicle Description
To be OFFERED AT AUCTION at Auctions America’s Hilton Head event, November 5, 2016.
Chassis No.
HBJ8L40026
Estimate:
$ 80,000 - $ 90,000 US
The restoration on this stunning Austin-Healey was reportedly commissioned by Country Singer Alan Jackson. The restoration took place over two years and was a complete nut-and-bolt, frame-off rotisserie restoration performed by BMC Classics in New Smyrna, Florida; who is well-known for their high quality Austin-Healey restorations. The thorough restoration was completed in 2007. After the restoration was completed, it was shipped to San Antonio Texas where it was always garaged, well-maintained and sparingly driven.
This motorcar has been driven an estimated 3,000 miles since the restoration was completed. Since the restoration, it has been recently freshened with all-new exterior chrome, new brake master cylinder, a rebuilt clutch master cylinder and rebuilt SU carburetors. A valve adjustment and cooling system flush was also performed to ensure top performance from this British sports car. This car is stated to run, drive and stop as well as it looks.
The entire car is presented splendidly with excellent body panel fitment. The black paint is stated as being show quality with a magnificent shine. The owner conveys that every piece of brightwork, including bumpers, overriders, grille, grille surround, ornate cloisonné wing badge, door handles, window trim, wipers, hinges, and latches are either new, or freshly chromed.
The completely rebuilt 2.9 liter six-cylinder engine is fueled by twin SU carburetors and factory intake. A factory exhaust manifold, replacement pipes, mufflers and resonators carry the exhaust tune to the rear of the car. The engine compartment has been meticulously detailed making it show-ready. A four-speed, with electronic overdrive, utilizes a hydraulic clutch which provides quick and easy shifting. Stopping power comes from front disc and rear drum brakes. The chassis, which rides on a set of coil and leaf springs, has been fully restored and finished in high-gloss black paint. At the corners of the car are 60-spoke chrome knock-off wire wheels that are fitted with Vredestein Sprint Classic tires. A new lead hammer, for the knock-off wheels, is included.
Like its exterior, the interior of this 3000 BJ8 was completely restored and tailored with correct bucket seats all finished in red leather with correct gold and black piping. Sitting behind a walnut-veneer dash are chrome rimmed gauges; and an original large diameter steering wheel with integrated turn signals adorns the drivers compartment. The dash pad, door panels, shifter, and carpeting are stated to be in like-new condition. Underneath the new black boot top is a new black vinyl soft top with a clear plastic window that zips down. This Austin-Healey does have an after-market air conditioning system for added driving comfort. This air conditioning unit was custom designed and built specifically for this car with period correct dash controls and vents.
It has a completely new wiring harness throughout the entire car with a 12V negative ground electrical system. The tachometer was converted to negative ground as well to match the rest of the electrical system. Included with the purchase of this British sports car is the important British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate; and pictures documenting complete restoration.
This Austin-Healey 3000 is the perfect candidate for open-top touring. With its cornering inspired suspension and fast revving engine; it is sure to provide many smiles for tours to come.
