Description
H&H Classic Auction @Pavilion Gardens | Buxton, Derbyshire
27th Nov, 2024 13:00
1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mark III Phase 2
No Reserve
Registration No: Unregistered
Chassis No: HBJ8/ 32826
MOT: Exempt
An exciting restoration project supplied with an abundance of parts
Right hand drive, overdrive specification
Understood to have only completed 20, 000 miles before being taken off the road during the 1970s
A significant step in terms of 'Big Healey' evolution and foundation block for one of the 1960s' most charismatic rally cars, the 3000 MkI was introduced in March 1959. Powered by an enlarged 2912cc version of BMC's C-Series straight-six engine that developed some 124bhp and 167lbft of torque, it could be had in two-seater (BN7) or 2+2 seater (BT7) configurations. Progressively improved, the 3000 metamorphosed through MkII and MkIIa guises before the arrival of the ultimate MkIII BJ8 in October 1963. Boasting a centre console, proper convertible hood, wood veneer dashboard, redesigned exhaust system and wind-up windows, the 2+2 seater BJ8 proved a comfortable and fast grand tourer. With engine output boosted to 148bhp and 165lbft of torque thanks to a new camshaft and better valve springs etc, its reputed 124mph top speed was accessed via a four-speed manual gearbox. Last of the line, the Phase Two variant benefited from redesigned rear suspension, strengthened splined hubs and larger diameter front disc brakes. Of the 17, 712 MKIIIs built, just 1, 038 are understood to have been to RHD, Phase Two specification.
Understood to have been built during 1966 and one of a batch of Right Hand Drive cars that was exported to Hong Kong when new, chassis HBJ8/ 32862 is said to have been involved in a front-end accident early on in its life at around 20, 000 miles during the 1970's and has remained off the road since. Acquired by Mr G. Lucas MBE just after its unfortunate spill and re-imported to the UK during this period, the big Healey was to be the retirement project of Mr Lucas and was kept in dry storage after a strip down patiently waiting for its makeover-to-be. Sadly, Mr Lucas has suffered from a serious decline in his health which has resulted in the project now needing to be sold off by his family.
Upon inspection, we noted that the body is in need of total restoration, but does come with a large number of its original or replacement panels. The original red vinyl interior is also believed to be mostly present along with much chrome trim including front and rear bumpers. The shell is rollable on the original rear axle and front hubs for transport, but much of the spare parts are supplied in accompanying crates or loosely. The six-cylinder, three-litre power unit is provided on a cradle and is supplied with the cylinder head, rocker cover and rockers, and the power unit appears largely corrosion free although no attempt has been made to turn it over.
Due to the nature of this particular lot, all interested parties should be aware that it is to be sold strictly as viewed and that no history file is available to accompany the car, so it is the purchasers' responsibility to register it with the DVLA for UK use. The original, BMC supplied chassis tag is also included to aid the purchaser.
