1966 Austin-Healey 3000 BJ8 Mk III

Description

The 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III (BJ8) was the final and most refined version of the iconic British sports car series produced by the British Motor Corporation. Introduced in 1959, the 3000 evolved through three major iterations, with the Mk III offering the most comfort and performance. It featured a 2.9-liter inline six-cylinder engine producing 150 horsepower, paired with a four-speed manual transmission and optional overdrive allowing for smoother highway cruising. 

By 1966, the Austin-Healey 3000 had become a favorite among American buyers, admired for its elegant styling and spirited driving experience. Production ended in 1967 due to tightening safety and emissions regulations, marking the end of an era. Today, the ’66 model is highly sought after by collectors, celebrated for its blend of classic design, robust performance, and enduring charm. 

This 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 MkII BJ8 underwent a comprehensive professional restoration between 2015 and 2020 and has been driven fewer than 200 miles since completion. The car was fully disassembled, media-blasted, and treated for rust, with new structural components including floors, rockers, pillars, and trunk pan installed. The engine was rebuilt, the transmission resealed, and the overdrive unit refurbished. Finished in Jaguar Opalescent Silver Grey with a subtle green tint, the bodywork was refinished and all exterior trim was restored or replaced. The interior features new dash veneers, restored seats, new carpet, and a new convertible top. This BJ8 presents as a beautifully restored example of one of Britain’s most iconic roadsters.

Factory Equipment 

• 2.9-liter inline six-cylinder engine 

• Four-speed manual transmission with overdrive 

• Dual SU carburetors 

• Front disc brakes 

• Wire wheels 

• Driving lights  

• The chassis number (HBJ8L32433) decodes as: 

  • H – Austin Healey 

  • BJ8 – Austin Healey 3000 Mk III Phase 2 

  • L – Left-hand drive for export to North America 

  • 32433 – Sequential production number (placing the car in the 1966 production year) 

 Modifications 

• Restoration work completed in 2020 included: 

  • Vehicle disassembled in 2015, media-blasted, metal treated and floors, pillars, rockers and trunk pan replaced 

  • Engine and overdrive unit work by Jaguar Denver 

  • Camshaft reground by Delta Cams (D9 grind)

  • Overdrive unit rebuilt by Katz British Cars 

  • Repainted Jaguar Opalescent Silver Grey (JAG-701); originally British Racing Green 

  • Bodywork and paint by Jason Stoermer of Rusty Resurrections 

• Re-cored radiator 

• Reconditioned steering wheel 

• Fully capped frame for rigidity  

• Converted to negative ground 

• Aftermarket radio with USB and hidden antenna 

• Replaced knock-offs from Moss Motors

• Replaced convertible top and tonneau cover from Robbins Auto Tops 

Servicing & Documentation  

• Recent 200-mile break-in valve adjustment and oil change

 Known Imperfections  

• Leaks oil 

• Imperfect left rear fender fitment 

Ownership History 

This 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 was purchased by the seller in 2014 and subsequently saw a 5-year restoration. The seller states that he has owned and restored many high-end British cars including Jaguar E-Types, Sunbeam Tigers, and more. Previous ownership was recorded on the West Coast including Washing State for extended time.

Offered with a clean Colorado title in the seller’s name.

Included items 

• Two keys 

• Factory tonneau cover (seller states in good shape)

• Fitted fabric car cover 

• Restoration records and service receipts  

• Photo documentation of restoration on CD 

Additional Information 

From the seller: “Everything has been gone through and replaced or restored to like-new condition. There is way too much to list on what has been done to this Healey 3000. I have a large portfolio of receipts for all parts and procedures. I also took a couple hundred photos of the vehicle prior to restoration, teardown procedure, restoration and reassembly.”