Austin Healey 1988 - Mk3 BJ8

A superb example of the final and most developed "Big Healey" – the Austin Healey 3000 Mark III BJ8 – finished in Colorado Red with Old English White side panels, a black hood, and matching black interior.Originally dispatched to Philadelphia, USA, this car is accompanied by its British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate confirming its original colour scheme, left-hand drive configuration, and factory equipment, including wire wheels, overdrive, heater, adjustable steering column, laminated windscreen and tonneau cover. At a later stage in its life, the car was professionally converted to right-hand drive, making it far more practical and desirable for UK road use while retaining its factory-correct appearance.Mechanically, this car benefits from desirable reliability upgrades, including a Revotec electric cooling fan, alloy header tank, electronic ignition, and an unleaded cylinder head conversion by Rawles Motorsport. These enhancements make it more usable in modern traffic, while preserving its period character.This Healey has enjoyed extensive and well-documented care over the decades, with highlights including major works by DJ Grove Restoration in the early 1990s, covering a full engine overhaul, chassis stripdown and repaint, full body restoration, respray, and interior refurbishment. Further recommissioning works were undertaken by Rawles Motorsport between 2011 and 2013, while a full engine and gearbox rebuild by Tim Lang Classics followed in 2013–2014, supported by circa £18,000 of invoices. Mileage was reset at 4,118 miles following this rebuild. Most recently, the car was maintained by JD Classics in 2024 with a brake system refresh, suspension bushes, coolant flush, gearbox mount bush, and anti-roll bar replacements, supported by invoices totalling £2,391.A substantial history file accompanies the car, including invoices, photographs of restoration works, MOT history, previous ownership records, and the Heritage Certificate. The car was first exported to the USA and registered there until returning to the UK in 1988. Since then, it has passed through a small number of long-term custodians, many of whom invested heavily in restoration. Notably, it was with enthusiast Mr. T. Marles from 1991 to 2013, during which time extensive works were carried out.The car presents beautifully, with smart paintwork, chrome wire wheels, and a well-finished interior. The 2.9-litre straight-six starts readily and pulls strongly through its four-speed gearbox with overdrive. The soundtrack and performance are exactly what a Healey should deliver – torquey, refined, and thrilling on the open road.This is a well-sorted, carefully upgraded, and thoroughly documented Austin Healey 3000 BJ8 – a car with provenance, usability, and classic appeal. Eligible for club events, tours, and international rallies, it represents a chance to acquire one of the definitive British sports cars of the 1960s in ready-to-enjoy condition.Available for immediate viewing at our Nottinghamshire showroom – and as always, our coffee pot is hot.