1965 Austin Healey 3000 MKIII BJ8
By the early 1960s, the Austin-Healey 3000 was beginning to show its age. Although sales remained respectable and the Healey continued to enjoy success in international motorsport, newer rivals such as the Jaguar E-Type and MGB offered more modern engineering and refinement. Recognising the need to keep the 'Big Healey' competitive, Donald Healey oversaw the development of the most comprehensive update in the model's history – the Austin-Healey 3000 MkIII BJ8.
Introduced in February 1964, although production had commenced in late 1963, the MkIII represented the ultimate evolution of the Big Healey. Because not all of the planned improvements were ready simultaneously, the new model was introduced in two distinct phases. The first 1,390 cars, now known as Phase One models, received a significantly upgraded interior and a more powerful engine, while the revised chassis and suspension arrived just a few months later with the Phase Two cars.
The MkIII's redesigned cockpit transformed the driving environment. A beautifully crafted walnut-veneered dashboard, centre console, lockable glovebox and new instrumentation gave the Healey a far more luxurious feel, while redesigned seats, improved weather equipment and better heat insulation made it a considerably more comfortable grand tourer than any of its predecessors. Mechanically, the familiar 2.9-litre straight-six engine was further refined with a revised camshaft, larger twin SU HD8 carburettors and a freer-flowing twin-exit exhaust system, increasing output to 148bhp. Servo-assisted brakes became standard, giving the MkIII performance to match its refined character. Contemporary road tests recorded 0–60mph in under ten seconds and a top speed approaching 120mph, making it one of Britain's fastest production sports cars of the period while remaining remarkably affordable.
Introduced in May 1964, the Phase Two BJ8 addressed the Healey's long-standing ground clearance issues through a redesigned rear chassis, revised six-leaf rear springs and a new rear suspension layout. The result was improved ride quality, sharper handling and increased comfort, cementing the MkIII's reputation as the finest-driving production Healey ever built. Strengthened wire wheel hubs, uprated front disc brakes and proper push-button locking door handles further enhanced the package. The MkIII proved to be an immediate success. Sales increased by 25 percent during its first full year, and with 17,712 examples produced, the BJ8 became the best-selling of all the 'Big Healey' models. Minor cosmetic updates followed in 1965, including separate amber indicator lamps to comply with changing regulations, while the car remained largely unchanged until production came to an end in December 1967.
The Austin-Healey 3000 MkIII BJ8 stands today as the ultimate expression of Donald Healey's iconic sports car. Combining classic styling, impressive performance, genuine long-distance touring ability and continuous development over more than a decade, it remains one of Britain's most charismatic and desirable post-war sports cars.
This 1965 3000 MKIII was originally built on the 22nd March 1965 and exported to Dusseldorf. The car was subsequently exported to the US where it remained until 1988 before being repatriated back to the UK.
Owned my rock'n'roll and motoring photographer Martyn Goddard since November 1988. A regular feature in Octane Magazine in the ‘Staff and Contributors’ section. An exceptionally well travelled and documented car that has been viewed by classic car enthusiasts over the past three decades.
The car remains in its original LHD configuration with a full beige interior.
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In 2015 the engine was removed and the engine bay stripped back and repainted. The engine and gearbox were also painted before reassembly.
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In 2022 a new Everflex hood was installed around its original hood frame.
A detailed history file containing V5C registration document, original US Title, heritage certificate, MOT history and large selection of magazine articles featuring the car.
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£ 56,500.00 GBP ono
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For further information on this car or to arrange a viewing or test drive, please contact us on our email address at enquiries@jmehealeys.co.uk or call our workshop on +44 01926 499000
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