Registration No: HVK 601C
Chassis No: HBJ8L27601
MOT: Exempt
A significant step in terms of 'Big Healey' evolution and foundation block for one of the 1960s' most charismatic rally cars, the 3000 MkI was introduced in March 1959. Powered by an enlarged 2912cc version of BMC's C-Series straight-six engine that developed some 124bhp and 167lbft of torque, it could be had in two-seater (BN7) or 2+2 seater (BT7) configurations. Progressively improved, the 3000 metamorphosed through MkII and MkIIa guises before the arrival of the ultimate MkIII BJ8 in October 1963. Boasting a centre console, proper convertible hood, wood veneer dashboard, redesigned exhaust system and wind-up windows, the 2+2 seater BJ8 proved a comfortable and fast 'grand tourer'.
This elegantly handsome Austin-Healey has been in the current ownership since 2018; ‘HVK 601C’ is a matching chassis and engine numbers example of a MkII BJ8. With a build date of late June/early July 1964, this ‘Big Healey’ was despatched to Nuffield Exports Limited, Charlestown, South Carolina, USA. It was originally ordered with wire wheels, heater, adjustable steering column, laminated windscreen and overdrive. Wearing traditional ‘Big Healey’ two-tone Blue and White paintwork, this BJ8 was the subject of a restoration in Canada. It is fortunate that it is offered here with photographs of the restoration process following repatriation. Benefiting from much improvement since arrival in the UK, there has been work to ensure the longevity of future custodianship; an expenditure of £2,610, in January 2018, included replacement seat belts, battery, steering idler and to add an isolator switch; a gearbox overhaul was carried out in 2018, further increasing this car’s reliability and everyday drivability. 'HVK 601C' has also been the subject of mechanical fettling in 2018, by a marque specialist as well as a service that same year. Offered with a collection of invoices, Heritage document 'HVC 601C' is also accompanied by the aforementioned collection of restoration photographs from the work carried out in Canada.
For more information, please contact:
James McWilliam
james.mcwilliam@handh.co.uk
07943 584760
Auction: Imperial War Museum, Duxford, 22nd Jun, 2022
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Tuesday 21st June 2022 from 12pm to 6pm
Wednesday 22nd June 2022 from 9am
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