A Glimpse into the Past: The Classic 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 BJ8 Mk III
Imagine traveling back in time to 1964, a year when the Beatles were the hottest ticket in town, and the Austin-Healey 3000 BJ8 Mk III hit the roads, turning heads with its stylish design and undeniable charm. Fast forward to 1983, when this particular beauty found a new home with its second owner. Its journey through time saw a fresh coat of paint in 2000 and a bit more pampering by 2008. Decked out in a striking green-over-black combo, it’s driven by a 2.9-liter inline-six engine, working in tandem with a four-speed manual transmission that features overdrive. And let’s not forget the dual SU carburetors, PerTronix electronic ignition, and a high-torque starter, which all add up to deliver a ride that’s as exhilarating as it is nostalgic.
Features that Charm the Soul
This classic car is more than a mode of transport; it’s a lifestyle statement. Imagine cruising with the black soft top down, wire wheels singing along to the rhythm of the road. You’ll appreciate finer details like the top boot, banjo-style steering wheel, and a wood dashboard—all signs of quality craftsmanship from a bygone era.
The allure of this Austin-Healey lies not just in its engineering but in its ability to make every drive an event, every road a stage.
Restoration Chronicles: A Timeline
So, what goes into maintaining such an iconic automobile? Well, in 2000, it was stripped to bare metal and graced with a British Racing Green lacquer finish. A new black soft top was added in 2008, alongside other updates like a hood scoop, bright trim, and chrome bumpers with overriders.
- Chrome-finished 15″ 72-spoke knock-off wire wheels
- Michelin XZX tires measuring 165SR15
- New brakes, shocks, and springs
- Updated brake master cylinder
A Cabin That’s More than a Cabin
Inside, the two-plus-two seating arrangement features bucket seats adorned in Black Ambla vinyl, transporting passengers straight to the swinging ’60s. With features like a revamped wood dashboard, a new banjo-style steering wheel, and refurbished black carpeting, it’s a living room on wheels. There is, however, a slight hiccup: those windows require a bit of finesse to wind up, something you’d expect from a classic, adding a bit of character to its personality.
Instrumentation & Performance
The dashboard isn’t just for show; Smiths black-dial instruments fill it with functionalities like a 140-mph speedometer and a 7k-rpm tachometer. The odometer, boasting 99,900 miles, reflects a life well-lived. Approximately 30,000 of those miles were clocked under its current owner.
Under the Hood
Austin-Healey fans will appreciate it even more for what’s under the hood. With dual SU HD8 carburetors, it’s ready to flex its 150 horsepower muscle at any given moment. In recent years, it’s been upgraded with a PerTronix electronic ignition and a Flame-Thrower coil, an added touch of modern performance to its nostalgic vibe.
The car isn’t just a machine; it’s a memory, each mile is a tale.
The Drive Experience
The four-speed manual transmission sends power to the rear wheels with a charm that only classic cars can offer. Though the electric overdrive unit occasionally decides to take breaks, recent fixes like a repaired shifter and a replaced clutch slave cylinder in 2022 ensure it’s more than just a piece of art—it’s a driver’s dream.
Ownership Intrigue
Adding a little mystery to the mix, the car’s chassis number, HBJ8L25831, is partially omitted on its Oregon title, showcasing only “25831,” leaving a little room for stories and theories. Whether you’re simply an enthusiast or looking to leap into the world of collectibles like those found at Peugeot 407 and Opel Grandland X, this Austin-Healey 3000 is a striking reminder of what makes classic cars endlessly appealing.