Although Britain is a notorious for its weather being often rainy and gloomy, its motoring industry has specialized in building some of the best open-top cars in history. The "British Sportscar" is the quintessential roadster, a car made for true appreciation of the surroundings and to deliver the maximum pleasure while driving.
The Austin Healey 3000 is alongside the Jaguar E Type one of the cars that represents the pinnacle of true British sportscars. Produced between 1959 and 1968, the 3000 was the last of the "Big Healeys", cars whose power and particularly engaging driving experience made them suitable for only daring and "hairy chested" men.
It was the evolution of the famed Healey 100, one of the most successful and highly praised sportscars of the 1950ies which was named after its intended (and remarkably achieved) top speed. Originating from the ashes of this remarkable motorcar, and it evolved through the years into an ever-more refined and performing sportscar.
In particular, the BJ8 variant of the 3000, which was introduced in February 1964 was the last and sadly final version of the 3000. It is known to be the best equipped of the whole series and also the most powerful: power output was increased from 136 to 150 hp, and it offered servo assisted braking system with front discs and transmission overdrive as standard. The cockpit featured burled walnut dashboard, a centre console between the seats, adjustable steering wheel and a heater, all offered as standard equipment.
Evolving from a raw and performance-oriented sportscar into a luxurious and refined GT, the Austin Healey 3000 has been one of most loved and best recognizable roadster ever produced in Britain.