Lot 20: 1967 AUSTIN-HEALEY 3000 MK III PHASE 2 CONVERTIBLE

Two-tone British racing green with Old English white, black interior and soft top

Engine: six cylinder, in-line, pushrod overhead valves, twin SU carburetors, 2,912cc, 148bhp at 5,350rpm; Gearbox: four speed manual with overdrive; Suspension: front, independent by wishbones and coil springs, rear, live axle with transverse control arm or radius rods, semi-elliptic leaf springs; Brakes: four wheel power assisted hydraulically operated drum to the rear and disc to the front. Left hand drive.

The new Austin-Healey went into production in 1953 and was immediately popular in the US. The cars were well-styled, inexpensive, tough and above all easy to drive, both for the sports car enthusiast who maybe fancied some light competition or for tooling down to the shops. The early four cylinder cars were superseded by a six cylinder model in 1956, appropriately named the 100/6 and these stayed in production until 1959 when the engine was considerably enlarged to 2,912cc, hence the name Healey 3000. These were altogether more powerful and faster, equipped with disc brakes and soon gave rise to the legend of the 'Big Healey.'

Shortly thereafter, in 1964 came the 3000 MK III, generally considered to be the finest Healey variant of them all. It was more convertible than the roadster with its wind-up windows, excellent hood and 2+2 seating. In the cockpit there was a varnished timber dashboard with the traditional sports car array of instruments, a central console between the comfortable bucket seats and well-fitted carpets.

Displaying approximately 1,900 miles on the odometer (safely presumed since restoration), this charming BJ8 has spent the last few years within an Arizona-based collection having been treated to routine use and appropriate service. Its condition throughout is extremely good and even the underside has been detailed; in particular, the interior is a delight - the wood dash is immaculate and the seats show no signs of wear whatsoever. Though not driven by a Christie's specialist, it is reported that the car drives without fault, the overdrive is fully operational and a delight when at cruising speeds; for ease of use, twin mirrors have been fitted. Regarded as the ultimate derivative, the Phase II BJ8 is the most luxurious of the 'big Healeys' and this fine example is both highly recommended and ready for immediate use.