1965 Austin - Healey 3000 Mk III BJ8

Body No. 72940

As the final iteration of the “Big Healey” 3000 Mk III rolled onto the scene, the legendary British sports car manufacturer successfully retained the DNA of its classic curvaceous long hood/short deck sports roadster, while tweaking the cockpit to accommodate 2+2 seating and adding amenities directed towards the booming North American market. Designed as a sports car and indeed quite successful in rallying and racing, the 3000 Mk III featured roll-up side windows and an easily operable soft top, and was equipped with the potent 2,912 cc 150 horsepower twin-carb six-cylinder engine. Mated to a four-speed manual overdrive transmission, and mounted with disc brakes in front, the 3000 Mk III provided performance worthy of its sporting heritage.  The cockpit was extensively revised as well making the 3000 Mark III the most luxurious and refined of all big Healeys.

Completed in July 1964, as documented by its accompanying British Motor Industry Heritage Trust certificate, this elegant Healey Blue 3000, with a blue-trimmed interior and matching hood, was delivered new to the United States through a San Francisco, California dealer and first registered in 1965. It was specified with desirable factory options, including wire wheels, of which it still retains all five, adjustable steering column, Roadspeed tires, laminated windscreen, and heater.

Acquired by its current owner in the 1990s for its proven qualities as a rally competitor, the car subsequently underwent a comprehensive, bare-metal restoration by Eric Perou, a noted specialist in 1960s British automobiles based in France's Loire Valley. Faithfully returned to its original Healey Blue over blue trim and hood configuration, it went on to enjoy an active and distinguished rally career over the following two decades, competing well beyond European borders. Notable appearances include the prestigious Coupe des Alpes from 2000 to 2006, the Trophée en Corse in 2006, The National Classic Tour the same year, Ardenne Roads in 2007 and 2008, and the China Rally of International Classic Cars in 2011. A wealth of rally stickers and grille badges attest to its rich competition history.

Meticulously maintained throughout its life by Eric Perou and Historic Car Services in Belgium, the car is offered with a comprehensive history file, including numerous invoices, a Belgian Car-Pass documenting annual inspections from 2006 through 2017, and a former historic passport issued by the Royal Automobile Club of Belgium.