Austin-Healey 3000

vs

Chevrolet Corvette

UK vs USA — 1962 vs 1967

Austin-Healey 3000 (1962)
Chevrolet Corvette (1967)
Specifications
3000 Mk III BJ8Corvette Sting Ray L88
Horsepower150 hp430 hp
Torque170 lb-ft450 lb-ft
Engine Size2,912 cc6,997 cc
0-60 mph9.8 sec4.9 sec
Top Speed121 mph170 mph
¼ Mile17.1 sec12.8 sec
Wheelbase2,337 mm2,489 mm
Length4,013 mm4,445 mm
Units Produced17,71220
Value (Excellent)$130,000$5,000,000
Collectibility5/105/10
Rarity6/1010/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray L88 with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III BJ8 offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

The rivalry between UK and USA automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III BJ8 versus 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray L88 is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray L88 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 430 hp compared to 150 hp, a 280-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Austin-Healey 3000 uses a Inline-6 OHV 12V displacing 2,912 cc, while the Chevrolet Corvette relies on a V8 OHV with 6,997 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray L88 edges ahead at 4.9 seconds versus 9.8 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 20 units built, the 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray L88 is considerably scarcer than the Austin-Healey 3000's 17,712 examples. On the collector market, the 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray L88 commands a significant premium over the 1962 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III BJ8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.