1965 Austin-Healey 3000 MkIII Phase II Convertible
Registration no. AHJ 389C
Chassis no. HBJ8L/30287
Engine no. 29K-RU-H/5149

Developed using lessons learned from the successful competition experience of earlier Austin-Healeys, the '3000' was launched at the New York Motor Show in March 1959. Effectively a larger-engined 100/6, the 3000 was powered by a 2,912cc 124bhp six-cylinder engine and fitted with front disc brakes to match its increased performance - top speed was in the region of 114mph with the optional hardtop in place. The Mark II version, with triple carburettors, was launched two years later and subsequently carved out an enviable competition career. In Convertible form the MkII brought improved practicality courtesy of a fixed foldaway top and winding windows, and from now until the end of production the only model available would be the '2+2', the less popular two-seat version having been dropped. The Mk III, the last and best of the Austin-Healeys, was introduced in 1964. Despite reverting to twin-carburettor induction the engine now produced around 150bhp, an output good enough for a top speed slightly in excess of 120mph. Later that same year the MkIII was up-dated with revised rear suspension, this final incarnation being known as 'Phase II'. Despite the antiquity of the basic design, the car remained as popular as ever, though increasingly stringent safety and emissions legislation meant that its days were numbered. The 'Big Healey', as it was affectionately known, became the most consistently successful Grand Touring rally car of all time. Its major successes included Pat Moss's victory in the Liege-Rome-Liege Rally of 1960, Donald Morley's domination of the Coupe des Alpes in 1961 and 1962, and his remarkable Tulip Rally performances in the early 1960s. Production of the Austin-Healey 3000 continued well into 1967 with 80 per cent of total output exported to the United States. Representing the Big Healey's final and most popular incarnation, this left-hand drive BJ8 Phase II model was competed in January 1965 and delivered new to North America where it remained in dry climates. In the early 2000s the car was treated to a complete 'last nut and bolt' restoration. All mechanicals were rebuilt, including the engine, suspension, brakes together with cooling, fuel and electrical systems, with various upgrades incorporated. The body and chassis were stripped back to bare metal, repaired wherever necessary and refinished to a standard equal to, if not better than, that achieved at the factory. Using correct materials, great attention to detail was paid during the restoration of the interior and convertible top, while all the chromed trim, glass and rubber parts were replaced. Following completion the Healey was well maintained and used only sparingly before being purchased by the current owner in the USA in 2008. Handsomely finished in black with matching hood and Bordeaux Red leather interior, this fully restored car sits on 60-spoke chromed wire wheels shod with period-correct Michelin tyres and is described as in generally excellent condition, the chassis benefiting from Waxoyling by JD Classics. Accompanying documentation consists of a BMIHT certificate, sundry restoration invoices, current MoT/tax and UK V5C registration document. Incorporating all the many improvements made during the model's lifetime, the Austin-Healey 3000 MkIII Phase II is the most civilised of the line yet retains all of the muscular charisma of the original. It is also one of the easiest of British sports cars to own and maintain, being supported by a number of international clubs and a veritable 'cottage industry' of parts and services suppliers.