Vehicle Description
Chassis No. H-BJ8-L/38567
Engine No. 29K-RU-H/5169
Replacing Austin-Healey's handsome 100/4 and 100/6, the 3000 was
announced in 1959 with a new three-liter engine and front disc
brakes, allowing for greater performance capability. An upgraded
Mark II 3000 arrived in 1961 with a triple carburetors before the
Mark III was announced in 1964 with a high-lift camshaft, providing
increased output. Additional changes were made throughout Mark III
production which included redesigned rear suspension, which added
additional ground clearance, known as BJ8 Phase II cars. U.S.
federal regulations later required Austin-Healey to alter the front
end of the cars to fit separate turn signals and parking lights
under the headlights. 3000 Mk III cars with the upgraded rear
suspension, but prior to the required adition of separate turn
signals are prized for being extremely driveable in addition to
offering a more attractive exterior design.
In the final iteration of the Austin-Healey 3000, output was up to
150 horsepower, and the cockpit was extensively revised to make the
3000 Mark III the most luxurious and refined of all big Healeys.
With a curved windscreen, wing windows, and roll-up side windows
introduced on the previous BJ7, the interior would also feature a
luxurious burled walnut dashboard and significantly more refined
interior appointments.
An early example of a BJ8 phase II, this example finished in a
striking silver metallic over red specification is one of these
desirable models built after the introduction of the improved
suspension, but before the exterior changes were made. According to
the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate, this
Austin-Healey was delivered new to Philadelphia, well-equipped with
wire wheels, cabin heater, adjustable steering column, laminated
windscreen, a black tonneau cover, and overdrive. Entering the
Steinman Collection in 1986, the car completed restoration in 1994,
after which it was honored with an AACA National First Prize. The
Big Healey's knock-off wire wheels and period-correct Dunlop Road
Speed Tires pair perfectly with the beautiful exterior brightwork
trim. Inside a well-detailed engine bay resides a correct RU-type
six-cylinder engine paired with a four-speed manual transmission
with overdrive. A rare and highly desirable transitional model,
this Austin-Healey offers all aspects of a powerful, attractive,
and collectible motor car, not to mention a sporting drive to
boot.
