2011-08-15 16:48:28 | pauls writes:

Car to be at auction 8/11
www.rmauctions.com/FeatureCars.cfm

Auction description:
Monterey
Friday, August 19, 2011 - Saturday, August 20, 2011
1963 Austin-Healey 3000 MK III Sports Convertible To be auctioned on Saturday
LOT: 261
Estimate: $90,000-$110,000 US
Chassis No. HBJ8-L/26061
Offered Without Reserve

- A rare and desirable "Phase I" variant; one of 1,390 produced
- Recently acquired from the second long-term owner
- Authentic and correct Kurt Tanner restoration; many extras
- Detailed to Austin-Healey Club Gold Concours standards

This 1963 Austin-Healey Sports Convertible is an exceptionally restored and highly desirable "Phase I" model that represents the ultimate BJ8 variant of the highly collectible and immensely enjoyable "Big Healey" sixes. Recently, the current owner acquired it from the second owner where the car was stored since 1971, and due to its careful preservation, the restoration required was quite straightforward.

As restored by Kurt Tanner Restorations, the noted Healey marque specialist, the car benefits from show-quality bodywork and a bare-metal base/clear coat refinish in desirable, yet seldom seen, California Sage. The comprehensive restoration also included a rebuild of the engine, gearbox, engine accessories and front suspension, braking and fuel systems. A stainless-steel exhaust system was installed, as well as a new electrical system and wiring harness. New chrome, glass and rubber were installed, the original cadmium-plated hardware was refinished, the radiator was re-cored, and a new fuel tank was fitted.

The cockpit was completely restored as well, with the installation of new leather front-seat upholstery and foam padding, new arm bars, door panel and carpeting kits and a new walnut-fascia dashboard. A new Armacord kit was fitted to the trunk compartment, a custom dark green Everflex convertible top and boot combination was installed, and a complete set of five new stainless-steel, 60-spoke wire wheels and radial tires round out the package.

Restored with strict adherence to authenticity and correctness from the outset and detailed to Austin-Healey Club Gold Concours standards, this superb Healey is accompanied by many additional and desirable items. Among them are a British Motor Industry Heritage Trust certificate, an album providing photographic documentation of the restoration, a storage bag for the top boot, a tool kit and jack handle with corresponding storage bags and a reprinted owner's manual.