1967 Austin-Healey 13J8 – Oldtimer-Meeting Baden-Baden 2021
Technical Details
The 1967 Austin-Healey 13J8 corresponds to a late-production Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III BJ8, manufactured by the British Motor Corporation. The BJ8 designation identified the final and most developed variant of the 3000 series.
Power was provided by a front-mounted 2,912 cc inline six-cylinder engine. Equipped with twin SU carburetors, the unit produced approximately 148 bhp (SAE gross) and delivered strong torque across the rev range. The engine was coupled to a four-speed manual gearbox with synchromesh on all forward gears, and most examples were fitted with an electrically operated overdrive unit on third and fourth gears.
The chassis used a separate ladder-type frame with steel bodywork mounted above it. Suspension consisted of independent front suspension with wishbones and coil springs, while the rear retained a live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs. Braking was handled by front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. With a kerb weight of around 1,150 kilograms, the 1967 BJ8 achieved a top speed of approximately 185 km/h (115 mph), maintaining the performance credentials established earlier in the model’s lifecycle.
- Manufacturer: British Motor Corporation
- Model Name: Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III BJ8 (13J8 series)
- Year of Manufacturing: 1967
Design
The BJ8 retained the classic proportions that defined the Big Healey: a long bonnet, short rear deck, and low seating position. The wide oval grille, chrome bumpers, and integrated front indicators gave the car a distinctive yet restrained front appearance.
Compared with earlier Healey models, the Mk III introduced a more curved windscreen and proper wind-up side windows instead of detachable side screens. By 1967, the interior featured a wooden dashboard veneer, improved instrumentation, and more supportive seats. The 2+2 seating configuration provided occasional rear seating, enhancing practicality without altering the roadster’s essential character.
Wire-spoke wheels were frequently specified, and subtle brightwork accents complemented the flowing body lines. The overall design combined traditional British sports car elements with incremental refinements aimed at improved comfort and usability.
Historical Significance
By 1967, the Austin-Healey 3000 had been in production for nearly a decade. The BJ8 represented the final evolution of the model before production ceased later that year. During its lifespan, the 3000 series had established a strong export presence, particularly in North America, where it became synonymous with British open sports motoring.
The Healey’s competition pedigree in rallying and endurance racing during the late 1950s and early 1960s contributed to its reputation. However, increasing safety and emissions regulations—especially in the United States—made continued production more complex and costly. The end of the BJ8 marked the conclusion of the Big Healey line.
The 1967 examples, including those in the 13J8 production sequence, therefore represent the final factory-built Austin-Healey 3000 cars. Their place at the end of production gives them particular historical relevance within the model’s lineage.
Quirks and Pop Culture
The Austin-Healey 3000 became a recognizable symbol of 1960s British sports car culture. Its deep six-cylinder exhaust note and muscular stance distinguished it from smaller four-cylinder rivals.
The overdrive system, engaged via a switch, remains a characteristic feature appreciated by enthusiasts for relaxed high-speed cruising. The combination of strong torque and relatively simple rear leaf-spring suspension gives the car a distinctive driving feel—direct and mechanical rather than filtered.
Today, late-production 1967 BJ8 models are especially sought after, as they represent the final iteration of the Big Healey. They are frequently seen at historic rallies, concours events, and classic touring gatherings.
Display and preservation:
The vehicle was exhibited at the Oldtimer-Meeting Baden-Baden in 2021. This event, held annually in the spa town’s Kurpark and along the Kaiserallee, is one of Germany’s most picturesque classic car gatherings. In 2021, the 44th edition featured 300 vintage vehicles from 80 different brands, including rare models. The event embraced a 1970s theme, showcasing over 40 vehicles from that era. An innovative highlight was the “automobile fashion show,” where models presented current fashion trends while riding in open-top classic cars through the park. The event concluded with the traditional Concours d’élégance, awarding 120 prizes across 15 categories.Conclusion
The 1967 Austin-Healey 13J8, corresponding to a late-production 3000 Mk III BJ8, stands as the concluding version of the Big Healey series. With its 2.9-litre inline six-cylinder engine producing approximately 148 bhp, front disc brakes, full synchromesh gearbox, and refined interior, it combined performance with greater comfort than earlier variants. As one of the final cars built before production ended in 1967, it remains a significant and enduring example of British six-cylinder sports car engineering.
