About this Collectable
The Austin-Healey 3000 (popularly known as the "Big Healey") was produced from 1959 to 1967 by Jensen Motors and assembled at the BMC MG factory. During its production run, the Healey transformed from an open sports car into a sporty convertible. The majority of Healeys (over 90%) were exported and entered in many rallies. Even today, the Big Healey remains a highly sought-after rally car: fast, reliable, and relatively easy to maintain. The final series, the MK III, arrived in 1964 with over 150 hp and power brakes as standard. The Mark III remained in production until late 1967.
Now in our auction is a very fine, left-hand drive(!) MK III from 1967—one of the last ones, therefore! The current owner did not believe in doing things by halves and had the Healey overhauled from A to Z. After purchasing the car in 2012, the Healey was completely stripped, bodyworked, and repainted. Additionally, the engine was fully overhauled. The estimated cost for this was around €60,000. Because the owner decided to use it for historic rally work as well, the car was taken in hand by the experts at Lex Classics in Waalwijk, resulting in another €60,000 being invested in the Big Healey to make the car absolutely perfect and optimize it. For instance, the suspension was optimized, center lock wheels were fitted, and the radiator was replaced with a larger aluminum unit (with a special aluminum grille) so that it does not overheat during a rally event. Furthermore, spotlights with grilles were installed, the Healey was fitted with a new hardtop including all seals, and all important components such as the alternator, fan, starter motor, etc., were overhauled or replaced, and an electronic ignition was installed. For rally work, the Healey is equipped with a Tripmaster, Halda stopwatches, sturdy tow hooks, 4-point seatbelts, a sump guard, and a reversing light. The complete list of modifications, adjustments, and maintenance can be seen in the photos. The car is truly in fantastic condition, without rust, leaks, or any trouble.
Our opinion
If you are looking for a ready-to-go rally car, this Healey is highly recommended. A car to which absolutely everything has been done to get it into top condition so that you can drive rallies with it without any problems. Fast, reliable, and ready to use immediately.
About the seller
The seller bought the Healey over 14 years ago to drive rallies with it. He really didn't skimp on anything and simply wanted to be able to finish every rally without any trouble. Lex Classics was commissioned at the time to get the now very good base into perfect condition. The owner has enjoyed it for over 5,000 km and unfortunately no longer has time for his rally hobby. Therefore, he has decided to sell the Healey via The Collectables.
Technical details
The specifications, upgrades, and maintenance history below provide a complete picture of the condition and equipment of this Austin Healey.
Equipment
This Austin Healey is equipped with, among other things:
- Hardtop
- Overdrive
Modifications
The list of modifications is extensive. Attached is a selection of modifications made by Lex Classics
- High-power starter motor
- Alternative alternator with special mounting
- Aluminum radiator with special grille
- Kenlow Fan
- Modified shock absorbers
- Split steering rack
- Main power switch
- Reversing light
- Highlights with grilles
- Racing mirrors and fuel cap
- Halda Stopwatches
- Tripmaster
- 4-point seat belts
- Minilite knock-off rims with central wheel nut
- Modified steering knuckles
- Modified center console with 3 extra gauges
- Sump guard
- Conversion from positive to ground to negative to ground
- 123 ignition
- Hood with louvers
- Stainless steel exhaust system
- Modernized oil filter housing
- Powerflex suspension bushings
- Moto Lita steering wheel
Notes
The Healey is truly in top condition and shows hardly any signs of use. After every use, the car is neatly prepared for the next drive. The soft top is missing. The Healey has been barely used in recent years, so an inspection including lubrication, new fluids, and possibly tires is recommended. Otherwise, the car is roadworthy and available for viewing (highly recommended!) by appointment!
Recent maintenance history
Maintenance has largely been carried out by Lex Classics in Waalwijk. The car had its last service there in 2016.
Included in the sale
- 2 Keys
- Hardtop
- Folder with invoices
Summary
Seller - Private
Location – Oisterwijk
Chassis number - HBJ8L40029
License plate – DH-02-66
First registration – 30-06-1967
Mileage – 33,799 mi (read)
Verifiable – No, N/A
Warranty - No
VAT/Margin car - Margin
Body style – Convertible with hardtop
Engine – 3-liter inline 6 with 148 hp
Drive – Rear
Transmission – Manual transmission with electric overdrive
Exterior – Dark green
Interior – Black leather
Smoker's car - No
Owners – 2 previous owners in the Netherlands
Owned since – 2012
Tires – Vredestein Sprint Classic 185HR15, DOT 2013, > 5mm
The description of this Collectable has been compiled with the utmost care, based on information provided by and validated by the seller. The Collectables performs a (pre)selection based on the information provided and consults public sources for any irregularities. The vehicles are sold "as is" without any warranty unless otherwise stated. Bidders are responsible for verifying the accuracy of the description and may, if desired, conduct a personal inspection. All collectables on our platform may be subject to any inspection, investigation, or appraisal by buyers in advance, in consultation with the seller. Please consult our Terms and Conditions for more details.
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