Among British sports cars of the 1960s, few carry the same presence and desirability as the Austin-Healey 3000. The final BJ8 series cars are especially sought after for their refinements, styling, and robust performance. This 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 BJ8, now listed here on eBay, is presented as a non-running project with strong bones, offering enthusiasts the chance to restore a true icon of open-air motoring.
According to the seller, the car has covered about 94,870 miles and is finished in a classic combination of red over a red interior. The body is intact and the structure appears solid, making it a promising candidate for a comprehensive restoration. The clean title and mostly complete presentation add further appeal for anyone seeking an authentic BJ8 project.
On the outside, the paint shows fading and chips, consistent with its years of storage. Chrome trim and wheels remain in good condition, which will save some expense during refurbishment. The convertible top is intact with no cracks, though the trim surrounding it will need replacement. Importantly, the car still presents well enough to see its potential clearly.
Inside, the red vinyl seats look to be in surprisingly good shape, while the carpet is faded and the door panels and seals will require replacement. The seller notes that the dash shows no cracks, a positive sign given how often Healey interiors need complete overhauls. The windows are currently off their tracks, but the key components are present, awaiting reinstallation.
Under the hood, the original inline-six turns slightly by hand, though it has not run in at least eight years. A proper mechanical sorting will be required, but the engine bay appears complete and untouched. The car rides on wheels that roll freely, making it easy to transport and maneuver during the restoration process. The underbody shows some surface rust but appears to have been treated against corrosion many years ago.
The Austin-Healey 3000 BJ8 is one of the most collectible British sports cars of its era, and restored examples often fetch significant sums in today’s market. This one is offered as-is, making it an ideal winter project for a dedicated restorer or a skilled enthusiast looking to bring a classic back to life.
Would you return this Big Healey to its factory-correct glory, or use it as the basis for a custom take on one of Britain’s greatest sports cars?
These are amazing touring cars, top down and the sound of the big six. For some reason this is missing the knockoffs, it has the later wheel nuts I suppose they are called. Corrosion can be a problem with these cars so look carefully.
Agree, but I’ve never seen a wheel roll freely with a flat tire.
I recon one of two things …..
Note in one photo taken when it was on a flat bed, the substantial chains attached to the back axle from the front of the car.
Either it was inflated before it was rolled off the flatbed, and immediately went flat again,
or
It was dragged into position by the tow truck.
Either way it adds to the general “patina” of the car, don’t you think
They are knock-offs, but they require a special tool that has the ears on it to hit with the brass hammer.
As someone very experienced with a BJ8, this looks to be a great starting point for a restoration. I doubt that the current price of $2800 will be anywhere close to the closing price…which I would estimate to be between $15 and $20K.
The door gaps look good so it is not likely to be suffering frame sag. The top has to be replaced (it’s dried out and stretched so that it doesn’t cover the door seals). The key issues for the Healeys, as pointed out, are corrosion in the lower fenders, rockers, and floor pans, none of which are given any pictures. This looks to be a complete survivor as I don’t see any evidence of prior restoration work. Someone has played with it a little (check out the directional signal indicators on the dashboard). The front and rear cowls are aluminum so they don’t rust. The paint wear on the front cowl is likely due to the heat the engine produces, and in the Southern summers, I’ve sat at a stop light and watched my temperature gauge go up to 240 F…worrisome to say the least. Frankly, this one set my little heart to pitter-pattering. So tempting.
If one of our readers buys it, please show us the After photos when it is finished.
Excellent project car.
Almost certain it was white originally – AH never did this color combination.
Knock of nuts where changed due to US regs. Same nuts fitted to Jaguar series 2.
Set of four original type with ears relatively inexpensive.
Ran when parked maybe ?
On closer inspection, I believe that you are correct, Peter. There’s considerable overspray around the engine compartment (power barn to Derrick Bieri fans). The rubber bumpers in the bonnet tracks should be black. Red interiors were available. The bleed-through on the cowl is white and if it were primer it would be gray. Good eye.
Sold for $12,100. That was a fairly decent price, someone got a pretty good deal.