Austin-Healey 3000 (1959-1967)

 

The Austin-Healey 3000 is one of the most iconic and beloved British sports cars, produced from 1959 to 1967. It was the third iteration in the Austin-Healey 100 series, following the 100-4 and 100-6 models. The 3000 was known for its powerful engine, improved design, and being a true representation of the golden age of British roadsters. Over its production span, the Austin-Healey 3000 underwent several updates and redesigns. Here's a brief overview of every Austin-Healey 3000 model ever made:

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Austin-Healey 3000 Mk I (BT7) – 1959–1961

  • Introduction: The 3000 Mk I (or BT7) was introduced in 1959 as the first version of the Austin-Healey 3000. It marked a significant upgrade over the 100-6, featuring more power and a refined design.
  • Engine: The Mk I was powered by a 2.9L (2912cc) inline-six engine, producing 124 hp at 4,400 rpm. This engine offered a considerable boost in performance over its predecessors.
  • Performance: The 3000 Mk I had a top speed of around 120 mph and could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 10 seconds, which was quite fast for the time.
  • Body Styles: The Mk I was available in two body styles: two-seat roadster (BT7) and 2+2 (four-seater) with rear seats.
  • Transmission: It featured a four-speed manual transmission with overdrive on the top two gears for better cruising efficiency.
  • Design: The Mk I's styling was more refined compared to the earlier 100-series, with a more modern look, including a larger grille and better interior finishes. The roadster featured a removable soft top, and there was also an optional hardtop.
  • Legacy: The Mk I helped establish the Austin-Healey 3000 as a more refined and powerful sports car. It was also successful in motorsport, especially in rallying, where its durability and performance were showcased.

Austin-Healey 3000 Mk II (BJ7) – 1961–1963

  • Introduction: The 3000 Mk II (or BJ7) was introduced in 1961 and built on the success of the Mk I, with additional improvements in performance and comfort.
  • Engine: The Mk II retained the same 2.9L inline-six engine but with 132 hp at 4,400 rpm, thanks to refined carburetors and other minor adjustments.
  • Performance: The Mk II had a top speed of around 125 mph and improved acceleration compared to the Mk I.
  • Body Styles: The Mk II was available in both the 2-seat roadster and the 2+2 configuration, offering more space in the rear seats.
  • Transmission: Like the Mk I, it featured a four-speed manual transmission with optional overdrive.
  • Design Changes: The Mk II had a slightly reworked front grille, redesigned seats for greater comfort, and a new dashboard layout with better instrumentation. The body lines were smoother, and the car had a more luxurious feel.
  • Legacy: The Mk II continued to build the reputation of the Austin-Healey 3000 as a powerful and stylish roadster. Its combination of performance and improved comfort made it even more appealing to a broader range of enthusiasts.

Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III (BJ8) – 1963–1967

  • Introduction: The 3000 Mk III (or BJ8) was introduced in 1963 as the final iteration of the Austin-Healey 3000 series. It featured the most significant updates in terms of power, comfort, and design refinements.
  • Engine: The Mk III was powered by a 2.9L inline-six engine with 148 hp at 4,600 rpm, the most powerful version of the 3000. This engine allowed the car to reach a top speed of around 130 mph.
  • Performance: The Mk III could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 8.6 seconds, making it one of the fastest cars of its era.
  • Body Styles: The Mk III was only available in the two-seat roadster configuration, as the 2+2 version was discontinued. This was a more performance-oriented variant.
  • Transmission: The Mk III featured a four-speed manual transmission with a Borg-Warner overdrive on the top three gears, offering better highway cruising and fuel efficiency.
  • Design Changes: The Mk III had several design changes, including a more luxurious and refined interior with wooden trim, a redesigned dashboard, and improved seating. The body was slightly wider than the earlier models, and the front grille had a cleaner, more elegant appearance.
  • Suspension and Handling: The Mk III featured improved suspension and braking systems, with disc brakes all around (replacing the earlier drum brakes), offering better stopping power and handling.
  • Legacy: The BJ8 Mk III is considered the most refined and powerful of the Austin-Healey 3000 models. Its combination of performance, luxury, and styling made it a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts. It marked the end of the Austin-Healey 3000 era, with the model being discontinued in 1967.

Summary of Austin-Healey 3000 Models:

  1. 3000 Mk I (BT7) – 1959–1961: Powered by a 2.9L inline-six engine producing 124 hp. Available in both 2-seat roadster and 2+2 coupe body styles. Known for its good performance and style.
  2. 3000 Mk II (BJ7) – 1961–1963: Improved to 132 hp, with refinements in comfort and design, including a smoother body and upgraded interior. Offered in both roadster and 2+2 configurations.
  3. 3000 Mk III (BJ8) – 1963–1967: The most powerful version with 148 hp, featuring significant improvements in comfort, luxury, and design, including disc brakes and a wood-trimmed interior. Only available as a roadster.

Legacy:

The Austin-Healey 3000 remains one of the most revered classic British sports cars. Its combination of performance, luxury, and iconic design made it a favorite among enthusiasts and a strong competitor to other British sports cars of the era, such as the Triumph TR3 and Jaguar XK150. The 3000 Mk III (BJ8), in particular, is still one of the most sought-after models by collectors. While the 3000 was discontinued in 1967, its legacy endures as one of the quintessential British roadsters, known for its power, elegance, and charm.