Introduced in 1959, the Austin-Healey 3000 was the ultimate Big Healey, fitted with a 3-litre version BMC C-Series engine to replace the smaller 2.6-litre engine of the 100/6, along with disc brakes on its front wheels. It was a rapid car for its day, achieving 0-60mph in about 11 seconds and with a 120mph top speed.
That, along with its low-slung body and tail-happy handling, made it a huge hit in motorsport.
This one is a BJ8, meaning it’s a post-1963 2+2, and has been in the custody of its current owner since 1991, when he bought it as a restored car, having been imported from the USA in 1988 and converted to RHD.
Although an older restoration the car has spent the past 25 years in the care of a well-respected car storage company and is in lovely overall condition, with an excellent interior and no major faults or issues.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
Imported to the UK in 1988
RHD Conversion
Matching engine and chassis numbers
Last owner for 32 years
V5C showing two UK owners
MOT, ULEZ and tax exempt
Invoices from well-known Healey parts specialists
THE INTERIOR
Retrimmed in blue leather
New carpets
Refurbished dials and switchgear
Superbly presented
Retrimmed in blue leather with matching new carpets, the Healey is a lovely place to sit. Old in terms of its traditional styling, but almost like new in terms of the materials – the seat covers, door cards, carpets, headlining and rubbers were all replaced during its restoration and have seen little use since. It’s in lovely order, and a four-seater to boot. There’s even a period radio.
All of the original tools are In the boot, along with part and full tonneau covers.
THE EXTERIOR
Very smart on top and underneath
Good hood
Knock-on wire wheels
Correct chrome and trim
It may be an older restoration, but the Healey is still in fine fettle with no major faults, following quarter of a century in dehumidified storage.
Up close, you’ll find a couple of very tiny bubbles in one front wing and on one rear arch, along with a very slight scratch on the nearside rear wing, plus a tiny mark on the boot lid, but overall it’s in great condition.
The fabric hood is also in excellent order, with only slight age-related wear. All of the chrome and trim is present and correct, though the front bumper looks as if it could do with some slight realignment.
THE MECHANICS
3.0-litre six
Four-speed manual with overdrive
Starts and runs well with no known issues
The big BMC C-Series is a sturdy engine with lots of torque, and this one seems to be mechanically spot-on. The transmission, brakes and suspension were all overhauled when the car was rebuilt, the overdrive functions as it ought to, the oil pressure is healthy and there are no signs of mechanical issues or fluid leaks. The car passed an MOT test in 2022 with no advisory notes.
SUMMARY
What we have here is a lovely example of the most advanced and sophisticated of the Big Healeys, in the most popular trim and with the best engine and dynamic set-up.
It’s an older restoration that has held up well thanks to careful storage over many years, with the reassurance of having come from long-term ownership.
Carefully recommissioned for sale, it’s a great example and a car that has rarely been seen on the show circuit due to being tucked away for many years. Now is the time for it to emerge from hibernation and be truly appreciated by a new owner.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
