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2007 Shannons Melbourne Spring Classic Auction
Lot
17

1965 Austin Healey 3000 Mk III BJ8 Covertible

$65,000

melbourne

Sold

Specifications

Engine In-line 6-cylinder, 2912cc
Gearbox 4-speed manual (with overdrive)
Body Work Convertible
Colour British Racing Green
Interior Black
Trim Vinyl
Wheels Wire-spoked
Brakes Disc/Drum

Description

This lot is no longer available

The first of the Big Healeys, badged the 100, debuted at the 1952 Earls Court Motor Show and soon developed a reputation for mechanical ruggedness, thanks in part to a competition career spanning two decades. The Big Healey evolved into the 100/6 in 1956 but a lack of performance compared to the four-cylinder model meant further revision took place in 1959 with the introduction of the more powerful 3000, with greater stopping power as well, thanks to new front discs. The next step in the evolution of the Big Healey was the altogether more civilised Mark II, sold in either BJ7 or BT7 2+2 configuration, introducing wind-up windows, quarter lights and a wraparound windscreen. In 1964, the Mark III was announced, with a new wooden facia panel and centre console, with a folding panel above the occasional rear seats that doubled as a parcel shelf. Mechanically, the Mark III benefited from several modifications, including a revised camshaft profile for the 3-litre six, twin SU HD8 carburettors and new twin exhaust system. With a 9:1 compression ratio, the motor produced 148 bhp and 165 lb/ft of torque and the Mark III was genuinely capable of reaching 120 mph. Overdrive remained an option on the four-speed gearbox and servo-assisted brakes were standardised. The 3000 was further refined in May 1964 (these cars are known as Phase IIs) with re-shaped chassis side members and new rear suspension to eliminate a perennial Big Healey problem, the lack of ground clearance at the rear. Of the 16,314 BJ8 Phase IIs built, around 85 % of production was exported to the United States before the last car rolled off the line in 1968. Demand for the Big Healeys has always remained strong and values remarkably buoyant, but the real pleasure is to be had behind the wheel of these classic British sports cars.