Austin Healey 3000 Mk Iii
1965 – 1967 Austin Healey 3000 MKIII (BJ8, phase 1 and 2)
This is the most luxurious Big Healey. It has the same looks as the BJ7 and perhaps even enhanced (or diminished, depending upon your taste) by extra chrome around the windscreen, wooden dashboard and windows. The BJ8’s have good weather protection and are regarded as the most civilized Big Healey’s. In our view the "improved" mufflers diminished the lovely throaty sound for which earlier Austin-Healeys are famous.
MODEL SPECIFICATIONS
1963 – 1967 3000 Mk3 BJ8. Wooden dash, tunnel console and better trim. Only available as 2+2. 148 HP with twin SUs. Phase 2 had improved rear suspension travel.
BJ8 sports convertible
Mark III
The 3000 sports convertible Mark III was announced in February 1964 its power increased from 136 bhp to 150 bhp by a new higher lift camshaft. SU HD8 carburettors replaced HS6 units increasing the choke size from 1.75 to 2 inches. Power-assisted braking became standard instead of optional. The new car's fascia displayed its speedometer and tachometer directly in fromt of the driver. Upholstery was now in Ambla vinyl
The Mark III BJ8 remained in production until the end of 1967 when manufacture of Austin-Healeys ceased. Only one further car was built in March 1968.[citation needed]
In May 1964 the Phase II version of the Mark III was released, which gained ground clearance through a modified rear chassis. In March 1965 the car received separate indicator lights.
17,712 Mark IIIs were manufactured.