Description
Kelham Hall | Newark, Nottinghamshire Viewing: Tues 17th March 2026 from 12pm Auction: Weds 18th March 2026 12pm Location: Kelham Hall Main Street, Newark, Nottinghamshire NG23 5QX Registration No: T. B. A. Chassis No: H-BJ8/ 34969MOT: Exempt Subject to a ‘bare metal’ restoration by marque specialist Murray Scott Nelson during the early 2000s and still notably presentable A desirable, ‘Phase 2’, home market example that retains its original engine and which was refurbished in its factory colours More recent fettling by fellow marque specialist Rawles and others History file dates back to the original green logbook A significant step in terms of ‘Big Healey’ evolution and foundation block for one of the 1960s’ most charismatic rally cars, the 3000 MkI was introduced in March 1959. Powered by an enlarged 2912cc version of BMC’s C-Series straight-six engine that developed some 124bhp and 167lbft of torque, it could be had in two-seater (BN7) or 2+2 seater (BT7) configurations. Progressively improved, the 3000 metamorphosed through MkII and MkIIa guises before the arrival of the ultimate MkIII BJ8 in October 1963. Boasting a centre console, proper convertible hood, wood veneer dashboard, redesigned exhaust system and wind-up windows, the 2+2 seater BJ8 proved a comfortable and fast grand tourer. With engine output boosted to 148bhp and 165lbft of torque thanks to a new camshaft and better valve springs etc, its reputed 124mph top speed was accessed via a four-speed manual gearbox. Last of the line, the Phase Two variant benefited from redesigned rear suspension, strengthened splined hubs and larger diameter front disc brakes. Of the 17, 712 MKIIIs built, just 1, 038 are understood to have been to RHD, Phase Two specification. According to its accompanying British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate, chassis H-BJ8/ 34969 was factory finished In Ivory White with Red upholstery and a Black soft-top. Completed on February 11th 1966 and despatched to Atkeys Ltd of Nottingham four days later, the Austin-Healey’s specification included a laminated windscreen, adjustable steering column, heater, overdrive and wire wheels etc. The original green logbook on file shows that the 3000 MKIII was first owned by Vincent Voss Esq of Blidworth before finding keepers in Derbyshire, Warwickshire and the Home Counties. Off the road for some fifteen years whilst in the care of the Matthews family, the 2+2-seater was displaying some 59, 000 miles to its odometer when renowned marque specialist Murray Scott Nelson sold it to M. Wheeler Esq during 2003. Treated to an extensive ‘bare metal’ refurbishment as part of the deal, the Austin-Healey received a new boot floor, inner / outer sills, inner front / rear wheelarches and B-posts as well as having its doors, wings and front / rear alloy shrouds repaired as necessary. Repainted in Ivory White, fully retrimmed and given thorough steering, suspension and brake overhauls as part of the refurbishment too, the 3000 MKIII returned to Murray Scott Nelson for an unleaded fuel conversion plus the fitment of a stainless steel exhaust, replacement wiring loom and new wood veneer dashboard panel. Tasked with uprating the cooling system during 2011 ahead of a Continental trip, the North Yorkshire-based firm continued to fettle the car throughout Mr Wheeler’s sixteen-year tenure. Albeit he entrusted some engine work (new timing chain / tensioner, alloy sump, mountings, spin-on oil filter conversion etc) to Powells of Ripon Ltd in 2016. Dispatched to Rawles Motorsport, another well regarded marque specialist, by its penultimate keeper during 2021 and 2022, the 2+2-seater had attention paid to its rear crankshaft oil seal (uprated), heater, overdrive solenoid, suspension and brakes (the latter having already been upgraded with Coopercraft front discs). Acquired by its last registered keeper for £61, 500 on August 1st 2024 at an indicated 72, 000 miles, the Austn-Healey has since been improved by both EAB Classic Cars and Carl Hopkins. The former renewing the halogen headlights, fixing the erratic fuel gauge, refurbishing the distributor and adjusting the driver’s door window mechanism, while the latter carried out a full service, wayoyled the underside and replaced the steering idler etc (the associated bills total circa £8, 600). A set of earlier style, ‘gold’ visaged instruments have been installed as a matter of personal preference but the previous black faced rev-counter and speedometer have been retained should a future custodian wish to reinstate them. A testament to the Murray Scott Nelson team’s workmanship, the 3000 MKIII remains highly presentable with notably good panel fit. A desirable, home market ‘Phase 2’ BJ8 that pleasingly retains its original powerplant, this handsome Big Healey is worthy of close inspection. Offered for sale with BMIHT Certificate, original green logbook and history file. ** Bidding will take place live at the venue...
