1965 Austin Healey BJ8 Convertible MkIII

Produced from 1959 through 1967, the Austin-Healey 3000, affectionately known as the “Big Healey,” was the final and most developed iteration of Austin-Healey’s classic British roadster formula, combining muscular six-cylinder performance with open-air motoring and distinctive styling. This 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 BJ8 Mk III, chassis HBJ8L29762, is particularly notable for its exceptional long-term ownership, having remained with its current owner since 1974, a span of approximately 52 years. Its previously issued British Motor Industry Heritage Trust certificate identifies it as a left-hand-drive North American export example produced in November 1964. Under the current owner, an extensive frame-off restoration began in the mid-1990s and was completed around 2005, with additional work and improvements continuing through approximately 2015. The restoration was performed by Michigan-based specialist English Motors and included refinishing the body in its present two-tone red and white color scheme, refurbishment of exterior chrome, seals, and trim, and replacement of the windshield and associated hardware. Significant records documenting the restoration, servicing, parts, and modifications accompany the car. The black 2+2 interior was similarly refurbished, including work to the front and rear leather seating, door panels, carpeting, and trunk trim and carpeting, while the burl wood dashboard received a lacquer treatment. Additional interior details include an indicator conversion kit, drilled brake and clutch pedals, an extended throttle pedal, front lap belts, a banjo-style steering wheel, and a Sony CD stereo. The driver's seat track has also been extended by two inches. Mechanical upgrades are extensive and include four-wheel disc brakes with an upgraded brake servo, Jaguar XJ6-derived calipers and cross-drilled discs, as well as Bilstein shock absorbers and tube-style dampers. Additional modifications include an oil cooler, aluminum-alloy radiator, baffled aluminum oil pan, polished Austin-Healey-script valve cover, and stainless-steel exhaust system. The seller reports no known accident repair or bodywork and notes a minor paint chip on the passenger-side rocker panel, as well as wear to the driver's door seals consistent with entry and exit. Power comes from the 2.9-liter inline-six breathing through twin SU carburetors and paired with a four-speed manual transmission with overdrive. Both the engine and transmission received extensive refurbishment during the restoration, with the engine reportedly rebuilt and presently fitted with a non-original aluminum cylinder head. Approximately 7,000 miles are shown on the odometer following completion of the restoration, though total mileage is unknown. Most recently, an oil and fluid service was completed in 2025, and the seller reports no presently required repairs, known mechanical-system issues, or fluid leaks. Offered at no reserve after approximately 52 years of continuous ownership, this extensively restored and thoughtfully upgraded “Big Healey” is accompanied by its Seller's Disclosure, British Motor Industry Heritage Trust documentation, owner's literature, service records, extensive restoration documentation, two sets of keys, two luggage racks, a spare windshield, and a matching spare wheel and tire.

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