Description:

• Subject to 692 hour, 2-year restoration between 2012-2014, with under 500 miles covered since

• ‘Fast Road’ specification by Brett Simms Motorsport, retaining its original engine and gearbox

• Impressive history file

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 particular export market BJ8 was purchased by the owner on 18 December 2012 as a restoration project in the US. The car was shipped to the UK to form part of a private collection of similar motor cars and was at the time, finished in Ice Blue and White, like most. The Restoration began almost immediately, which would span 692 hours over two years. The old paint was removed with the car stripped back to bare metal. All body panels were removed including the wings, bonnet and boot. The car was then etch-primed, primed and re-coloured in the Mille-Miglia colourway of Colorado Red with Black, the carpets, door cards and hood replaced but the seats left as they were in good order. The car was then subject to a full re-wire including all relays, the body rust proofed, brake pipes front and rear replaced with new calipers on the front, a new stainless steel exhaust fitted and the brightwork replaced with new.

The original gearbox with overdrive was retained, with the engine re-built to fast road specification by Brett Sims Motorsport. This included a re-bore, the cylinder head being modified and skimmed, multi-angle valve seats cut, all faces skimmed, new bronze valve guides, double valve springs, valve stem seals, hardened exhaust seats for unleaded conversion and both inlet and exhaust valves for good measure. As well as this, the radiator replaced, a competition clutch fitted with steel flywheel and more.

Still retaining its original engine and gearbox, ‘YTA 418E’ has covered less than 500 miles since its restoration, with new original specification tyres fitted just 6 months ago. Showing 27,787 miles on the odometer at time of consignment, Included with the vehicle is a comprehensive history file organised in a ringbinder. Included within is a copy of the Oregon title, a copy of the DVLA Authorisation letter, copies of the registration application documents, a breakdown printed in a spreadsheet documenting the costs and hours of the restoration, with further written notes documenting further works undertaken, a large collection of invoices for work undertaken, as well as invoices and receipts for parts purchased (mainly from AH Spares), the V5C document which displays 0 former keepers and more.

Website:

Facebook:

Keyword Search Terms: