History File

Our Austin-Healey 3000 MK III (Phase 2) LHD example – chassis H-BJ8-L/39866 – was originally exported to St Louis, Missouri in the United States of America in 1967 and would return to Europe, imported to Germany in 2001. Following a lengthy restoration period by specialist Fm Karbstein GmbH in Schwerte, the below images display the extent of the comprehensive, mechanical and body restoration. The initial German owner would lovingly care for the car for some 17 years before sadly passing in 2018, when it is sold to a colleague and family friend. The second German owner has now decided to reduce his small Healey collection and offer this honest example to the market place. Cathedral Classics are delighted to be entrusted with this super example and all-time favourite classic. The most recent Valuation is from 2017 where the car received a Condition 2 and a Market Value of €75,000

Exterior

The car left the factory, confirmed by its Heritage Trust Certificate, in Ivory White and would remain this colour until landing in Germany in 2001. The comprehensive restoration pictures confirm this and also the extent of the body restoration. The car would eventually emerge in two-tone dark blue over the original white, which suits the car very well. All in all, it’s a super finish which has stood the test of time well and still displays nicely. Close inspection will notice a small chip and slight crack near the passenger door edge that may possibly require attention at a later stage. The abundant chrome and bright-work is possibly the cars highlight with all of it presenting in superb condition; both bumpers have also been wax treated from the inside. A nice set of spots are also fitted to the gleaming chrome badge-bar. These cars are still a bit of an eye catcher, even with the cars new mohair roof in place; when required, it folds away nicely without fuss, which should be as often as possible.

Interior

A ‘room’ black in colour contrasted with flashes of classic wood in the form of twin dash coverings and a wonderful patina Moto-Lita steering wheel and adjustable steering column. It’s a great place to be with nice patina -leather seats, front and rear; both door-cards and carpets all presenting well. A period radio has been fitted with a discrete window antenna and all switches and knobs are legible. Both cold and heated air vents appear to be working but, the usual sensitive petrol gauge has been cured by switching it around so that empty is actually full.

Engine & Transmission

Looking at the restoration images, the car was clearly stripped of its engine and gearbox with a complete overhaul taking place. It’s a fairly quiet running unit in comparison to other Healey’s we’ve driven with an efficient gear change and smooth over-drive. In recent years the last owner has maintained the car well with plenty of invoices in the cars history file to confirm his investment. The car is also offered with a Marque specialist service before handover.

Wheels, Tyres & Brakes

The cracking new chrome wires are covered with quality Fredestein Sprint Classic 185 HR15 91H quality tyres with ample tread available. There is plenty of appropriate braking power of the period. The car also comes with an appropriate period wheel brace, jack, hammer and wheel-key.

Underneath

Restoration