Owning an Austin-Healey

Owning an Austin-Healey is more than just owning a car—it’s an experience that combines driving pleasure, nostalgia and a connection to automotive history. It’s also a fact that maintaining a Healey is mentally stimulating, physically engaging, and a socially rewarding activity that can help support cognitive, physical, and emotional health. Where else can you find a hobby with all these benefits and that is so much fun at the same time?  As a recent buyer from our site said when asked why be bought his Healey from our Marketplace: “I know that the best cars are usually associated with club members because they are more likely to be properly maintained and driven.”

Following are just 10 of the main benefits of owning a Healey:

1. Timeless Design: Austin-Healeys are known for their distinctive British styling, with elegant lines, chrome details and a vintage charm that draws admiration. Their iconic look makes them stand out at car shows and events.

2. Driving Experience: These cars were designed as performance-oriented roadsters with their lightweight frames and powerful engines (for their time) that deliver a spirited driving experience. The raw, unfiltered driving feel and great exhaust sound makes for a highly engaging driving experience that many classic sportscar enthusiasts love.

4. Community and Events: Being a member of the Austin-Healey Club of America connects you to passionate community of over 2,000 Healey owners. There are over 40 Regional and Area clubs (Area Club Finder), Healey forums and multiple events worldwide that bring together Austin-Healey owners and fans, providing social opportunities, resources, and shared knowledge. Many of our Area clubs offer tech hotlines, tech sessions (see photos for few samples of Area Club tech sessions), tech tips and notices of British car events in their monthly newsletters. Join Now

5. Simpler Mechanics: Compared to modern cars, Austin-Healeys have simpler mechanical systems that allows many enthusiasts to maintain or repair themselves. This can make ownership more satisfying and allows for hands-on involvement in the car’s upkeep. There is a huge sense of accomplishment that comes with restoring or maintaining a Healey.

6. Cultural Legacy: Austin-Healeys are part of British motoring history and have a strong legacy from the 1950s and 1960s. They have roots in motorsport, particularly in rallying and endurance racing, adding to their prestige and heritage.

7. Fun for Casual Drives and Shows: These cars are perfect for weekend drives on scenic roads or for showcasing at local British car shows and Healey events like AHCA’s annual Conclave or at one of our Healey Regional events. Healeys bring back the feel of classic top-down motoring, ideal for a leisurely day out or a weekend trip.

8. Social and Emotional Benefits: Healey owners can join Area Clubs, attend British car shows, or collaborate with others on restoration projects, offering opportunities for social interaction. The sense of accomplishment that comes with restoring or maintaining a Healey can also boost confidence and provide a rewarding hobby.

9. Physical Benefits: Maintaining a Healey can improve your fine motor skills: Tasks like adjusting bolts or wiring require dexterity and hand-eye coordination, which can improve or help maintain fine motor skills. Even though it may not be a high-intensity, activity working under the car can contribute to overall physical movement and flexibility. Plus, Healey restoration and repair parts are readily available from many domestic and international suppliers

10. Cognitive Benefits: Engaging with a Healey often involves researching parts, “how to” videos or mechanical systems. This continuous learning process helps keep the mind active and adaptable.

If you are not already an owner, consider buying one from an owner in our Marketplace. We do not think you will not be disappointed!