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Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III 1965 review

Roadster Petrol
Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III 1965 — front three-quarter view

Photo: Lothar Spurzem (CC BY-SA 2.0 de), via Wikimedia Commons

Overview

The Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III is the definitive Big Healey - the last and most refined of Donald Healey's beloved British sports cars. Built between 1964 and 1967, the Mk III (factory code BJ8) paired a 2.9-litre straight-six with wind-up windows, a walnut-veneer dashboard and a proper folding hood, making it the first Big Healey you could genuinely use every day.

With 148 bhp on tap, a top speed of 121 mph and that glorious six-cylinder soundtrack, the 3000 remains one of the most charismatic British roadsters ever built. Works rallying success, including victory on the 1964 Spa-Sofia-Liege, cemented its legend, and today the Mk III is the most sought-after Big Healey of all.

UK price from: £44,500

Specifications

Engine2.9-litre inline-6 (2,912 cc)
Power148 bhp @ 5,250 rpm
Torque165 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm
0-60 mph9.8 seconds
Top speed121 mph
Fuel economy~20 mpg
Transmission4-speed manual with overdrive
DriveRear-wheel drive
Production years1964-1967 (Mk III)
Kerb weight1,180 kg

Features

  • 2.9-litre BMC C-series straight-six with twin SU HD8 carburettors
  • 148 bhp with four-speed manual gearbox and Laycock overdrive
  • Walnut-veneer dashboard and wind-up windows - a Big Healey first
  • Optional detachable hardtop for all-weather touring
  • Knock-off wire wheels and servo-assisted front disc brakes
  • Works rally pedigree including the 1964 Spa-Sofia-Liege victory

Common parts & prices

PartPrice (GBP)Notes
Front brake pad set£45Mintex pads for disc-brake Mk IIIs
Clutch kit£180Cover, plate and release bearing
SU HD8 carburettor rebuild kit£95Gaskets, needles and seals per carb
Stainless steel exhaust system£550Full system, mild or sport note
Water pump£85Essential cooling system refresh item
Contact points and condenser set£15Routine ignition service parts

Prices are typical UK aftermarket/OEM guide prices and may vary by supplier.

Pros

  • One of the most beautiful British roadsters ever drawn
  • Strong, simple six-cylinder engine with excellent parts support
  • Genuine 120 mph performance with overdrive for relaxed cruising
  • Values have risen steadily - the Mk III is the blue-chip Big Healey

Cons

  • Body-on-chassis construction hides serious rust in sills and outriggers
  • Original interiors and trim are expensive to restore properly
  • Heavy steering and drum rear brakes demand respect in modern traffic
  • The very best restored examples now command £60,000-plus

Frequently asked questions

How much is an Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III worth?
Good, usable Mk IIIs typically change hands for £40,000-£50,000 in the UK, with concours-restored examples reaching £60,000-£70,000. Projects start around £20,000.
What should I check for rust on a Big Healey?
Sills, chassis outriggers, rear spring hangers, door bottoms and the boot floor. The separate chassis can look solid while the body structure rots - get it on a ramp.
Is the Austin-Healey 3000 reliable?
The C-series six is a tough, simple engine and parts availability is excellent. Regular use keeps them healthy; long lay-ups cause brakes and hydraulics to seize.
What is the difference between the Mk II and Mk III?
The Mk III (BJ8) added wind-up windows, a walnut dashboard, a revised hood and 148 bhp, making it the most civilised and desirable Big Healey.
What fuel does a Healey 3000 need?
It was designed for leaded four-star, so use super unleaded (97+ octane) with a lead-replacement additive, or fit hardened valve seats.

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