Introduction
Darren Rungasamy
Timeless British styling seamlessly blended with elegant, comfortable grand-touring luxury.
As the ultimate iteration of BMC's premier GT roadster, the 3000 Mk III (BJ8) represents the absolute pinnacle of the Big Healey lineage. Introduced in 1963 and refined until production ended in 1967, the BJ8 captured everything enthusiasts loved about the marque - the classic flowing lines and muscular stance - while adding a level of luxury and usable performance unseen in earlier models. With its upgraded 150 bhp engine, plush wood-veneered dashboard, roll-up windows, and easy-to-use 'one-touch' convertible top, the Mk III effortlessly bridged the gap between a raw-boned sports car and a sophisticated long-distance grand tourer.
Most notably, cars from this era benefit from the revised Phase 2 rear chassis configuration, which incorporated redesigned rear frame rails and twin trailing arms - greatly improving rear suspension travel, road handling, and underbody ground clearance. Driving usability is further elevated by standard servo-assisted front disc brakes for confident stopping power. Combined with period-correct lighting details, these refinements make the late-model BJ8 the most complete, comfortable, and usable driver's car in the entire Austin-Healey line-up.
Originally a US-market example converted to right-hand drive, this 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III (BJ8) is finished in green over a black leather interior. Formerly part of the renowned Tony Elshof collection, the car has had just two previous keepers since being imported to the UK in 1999. Owned by the current vendor for seven years, it has benefited from an additional £11,000 investment in cosmetic and mechanical refinements. Beautifully presented with a new soft top and fresh glass, the vehicle is accompanied by a history file of invoices and receipts dating back to its UK import, two sets of keys, a British Motor Industry Heritage Trust certificate, a lead hammer, and a jack tool kit. It is offered with an advisory free MOT valid through June 2027. David has kept it dry garage stored, he has only driven it on dry roads too and carried out any maintenance when needed.
This listing was written from information supplied by Darren after meeting David the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.
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I WANT ONEAsk Questions
Hi David, James here has the cylinder head has been converted for unleaded fuel, specifically whether hardened exhaust valve seats have been fitted? thanks
Dear James. Thank you for your earlier message. I have always assumed that the cylinder head hasn’t been converted – hence why I always add Castrol Valvemaster to the high octane petrol that I always use (Shell V Power is the best!). I’ve also checked the file & there is nothing to suggest that the engine has been converted (using hardened exhaust valves fitted) etc in it’s time. To me, it’s never been a concern – you just have to remember (although not totally critical) to add when you re-fuel! Hoping this helps. With many thanks. David
Good morning – & my apologies that I don’t have your name to refer to. Also, my apologies for this delayed response. Regarding the RHD conversion – there is an Invoice in the file dated 7/12/99 from Cox & Perry (Horstead, Norwich) – Classic & Sports Car Specialists – stating – “Paid cheque. £1,500 part payment. Healey steering conversion”. Then on 15/2/2000 there’s a further Invoice from Cox & Perry for £3,719.52 – which includes/states – “Strip dash, pedal box, heater, remove LHD parts, fabricate RH throttle, steering bracket, refit dash, heater etc”. Apart from this, I’m afraid I can’t add anything further. Regarding the replacement steering box & fuel tank, there is no mention of any structural works being undertaken at the time. Likewise, I have no knowledge of any such works since. Finally, (having again checked the file), I am unaware of the Healey being subject to any engine rebuilds since being in the UK. Hoping this suitably responds to your questions raised – & again my apologies for the late response. Kind regards. David
Hi David, fantastic looking BJ8. I have a couple of quick questions regarding its history and specification to help with my bidding.
Regarding the RHD conversion carried out after its 1999 import, do the history files show which specialist undertook the conversion, and was a quick-ratio or standard steering box used during the upgrade?
The listing notes a replacement steering box and fuel tank over its UK lifetime. Were any structural items like the chassis outriggers, sills, or floor pans replaced or repaired during its time in the Tony Elshof collection or under your ownership?
The dyno sheet shows a very healthy 128 bhp at the wheels/hubs. Has the engine ever had a top-end or bottom-end rebuild to your knowledge, or is it highly original?
Thanks in advance
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