Flashy paint Precursor to the MG B Ready to roll The Austin Healey 3000 was built in three successive generations from 1959 to 1967 as the successor to the Austin Healey 100/6. This new six-cylinder powered Austin Healey was better known as the 'big Healey'. Nevertheless, its dimensions remain modest and even playful, with just under four meters in length (thirteen feet) and one and a half meters (five feet) in width. In 1967, the 3000 was succeeded by the MG B, which later gained a lot of allure and fame. The new 3000 didn't bring many changes compared to its predecessor, the 100/6, though that wasn't necessary either, as the 100/6 had already approached the perfection of a British classic. The 3000 provided the necessary complement. Under the hood, the harmonious 2.6-liter six-cylinder engine was upgraded to 2.9 liters, as its name ‘3000’ suggests. This didn't fail to impress many racing enthusiasts, and despite its not necessarily ‘track-compatible’ appearance, the 3000 achieved considerable success in rallies in Europe and the United States. Throughout its eight years of production, three generations were built, defining the future of classic British roadsters. The 3000 was the precursor to the MG B, which held the title of 'best-selling convertible ever' for decades. Austin Healey 3000 Mark III BJ8 The Mark III BJ8 is the third generation of the 3000 Series and it is by far the most sought-after among enthusiasts. This is due to the fact that the Mark III offered significantly more power than its predecessors. With larger carburettors, the Mark III achieved an impressive 150 horsepower, allowing it to accelerate to 100 kilometers per hour, or 62 mph, in approximately ten seconds from a standstill. Power-assisted brakes became standard on the car, and third generation’s interior was made with higher-quality leather. Nearly 18,000 examples of the Mark III were built, the majority of which were exported to the United States. With its British allure, luxurious connotations, and charming appearance, the 3000 remains a highly sought-after and valuable classic car. Technical information: Body work Length (cm): 400 (157 inch) Width (cm): 152 (60 inch) Height (cm): 124 (49 inch) Wheelbase (cm): 233 (92 inch) Weight (kg): 1180 (2601 lbs) Mechanics Engine: straight-six 2912 cc front-engine Valve gear: 12 Fuel system: 2 SU carburettors Gear box: 4-speed manual Transmission: RWD Left-steered power: 148 hp (110 kW) at 5250 t/m torque: 224 Nm at 5250 t/m Top speed: 195 km/h (121 mph)