The 3000 Mark III, series BJ8, which was introduced in late 1963 and built through December 1967, was the final version of the beloved “Big” Healey, and it represents the highest refinement of the marque.

With twin two-inch SU carburetors, the well-developed 2,912-cubic centimeter, six-cylinder engine of the Mark III could produce 150 horsepower, which was the most of any model in the Austin-Healey line. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took just 9.8 seconds, and its top speed was around 120 mph. Other improvements included a revised exhaust system, a vacuum brake booster as standard, and after the initial 1,390 examples, a revised rear suspension to increase ride height for improved ground clearance, as found on this late-production example.

The model name 3000 Mark III and the series designation BJ8 are synonymous, and it is only this model within the entire range of Austin-Healeys that features a luxurious cockpit that combines a dashboard of burled walnut veneer, a center console with the curved windscreen, wing windows, and roll-up side windows that had been introduced shortly before on the series BJ7 model. It is clearly the most comfortable, most weather-tight, and most luxurious of all Austin-Healeys.

The example offered here, which had been thoroughly restored by highly respected marque specialist Kurt Tanner, was purchased in January 2010 from only its second owner. Details of the restoration include new show-quality body and paint work; new chrome and rubber; a correct Ambla interior and walnut burl veneer dashboard; new glass; new 60-spoke chrome wire wheels with radial tires; a new wiring harness and electrics; a stainless steel exhaust system; cadmium-plated hardware; a detailed driveline and undercarriage; and a freshened engine, with new rings, rod bearings, gaskets, a cylinder head rebuild, and more. Not only was the restoration thorough, it was carried out with absolute authenticity and originality in mind and the finest materials were used. All work was done in accordance with the detailed and authoritative Austin-Healey Concours Registry’s “Originality Guidelines,” and a photo album is provided with the car to attest to its extensive, correct, and professional restoration.

This stunning example is supplied with a fifth chrome spare wheel, top boot and bag, an owner’s handbook, and a BMIHT Certificate. The car is painted in the quintessential Big Healey color that so beautifully highlights the car’s shape and curves, and it is equipped with every option available. This exceptional sports car has been professionally and meticulously restored by a marque expert and offers excellent investment potential, while also delivering classic and stylish British motoring from a golden era.

This outstanding Austin-Healey 3000 Mark III, which is accompanied by photographic documentation of the work performed, as well as a British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate to verify its original specification, is a tremendous opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts of these British sports car icons. The 3000 Mark III is comfortable and fast yet classically styled, and it marks the epitome of the open British sports car.