Austin Healey - 100 (1958)

Discover the timeless charm of the Austin Healey 100—the iconic 1958 sports car that first hit the streets with a sleek silhouette and a spirited 1.5‑litre engine. Today, collectors and driving enthusiasts alike hunt for a classic Austin Healey 100, wondering precisely how these vintage beauties hold up in today’s market and how much a modern buyer might expect to spend. Whether you’re evaluating an Austin Healey 100 price, benchmarking against the Austin Healey 100 1958 price, or assessing a used Austin Healey 100 price, this guide dives deep into the specifications, depreciation trends, and comparatives you need to make an informed decision.

Key Specifications Breakdown

• Engine Type: 1,456 cc BMC Straight‑4 (also available in a limited 1,595 cc variant for certain models)
• Horsepower: 70 bhp (base model), up to 73 bhp with the “SW” (Sports 100) road version
• Transmission: 4‑speed manual, conventional Borg–Wong or early Selenia piece
• Fuel: Petrol (regular φ.4 octane)
• Drive: Front‑engine, front‑wheel drive layout (lightweight, half‑sunk chassis)
• Dimensions: Length 4,386 mm (172 in), Width 1,693 mm (66 in), Height 1,254 mm (49 in)
• Wheelbase: 2,286 mm (90 in)
• Weight: Approximately 1,042 kg (2,300 lb) dry
• Brakes: Drum brakes on all four wheels (later models transitioned to front disc brakes)
• Suspension: Independent front suspension (double wishbone), live rear axle with leaf springs
• Top Speed: Roughly 105 mph (168 km/h) depending on trim and condition
• Top Fuel Economy: 32–35 mpg (13–14 l/100km)
• Notable Features: Dual-ignition reflex spark plug, “Original” variations with a subtly distinct front mesh grille, and an electric hand‑break mechanism included in later iterations

Beyond the mechanical spec sheet, each Austin Healey 100 is a snapshot of 1950s British automotive artistry—tapered bumpers, acetone‑finishing panels, and a driver’s cockpit that balances comfort with a sporty feel. These traits are precisely why collectors and enthusiasts debate the present Austin Healey 100 price and explore the historical pricing curve: from the model’s launch in 1958 to its gradual spike in interest over the decades.

Depreciation Insight & Long‑Term Value

When assessing an used Austin Healey 100 price, investors typically consider how the vehicle’s worth has ebbed and flowed over the past sixty years. Vintage sports cars, especially those from the “golden age” such as the 1958 Austin Healey 100, generally follow a distinct depreciation pattern that differs markedly from modern mainstream vehicles.

• Initial Purchase & Immediate Use: The moment a new Austin Healey 100 rolls off the assembly line (eliminated 1962 in reality), it may show a nominal loss of roughly 5‑10%—although, because the vehicle was never new in the sense of today’s cars, the Austin Healey 100 depreciation is more about rarity than routine depreciation.
• First Year (if older models or used cars): Typically, a used vehicle will lose 15‑20% of its value in the first year due to the “new‑old” depreciation effect.
• Five‑Year Window (classic collector vehicle): By the fifth year, the value may actually increase, often in the 25‑35% range—especially if the car remains in original condition, seals the original paint, and retains key mechanical strokes. Many Austin Healey 100s have turned from a $15,000 purchase anywhere in the UK to a $25,000 auction price.
• Ten‑Year Horizon: Outdoor storage, lack of maintenance, or drivetrain misuse can accelerate depreciation. However, a well‑maintained car can hold or even gain 30‑40% of its original price by this mark.
• Long‑Term Growth (20–30 years): As older models become rarer, the value curve typically rises sharply—often 50‑70% growth relative to the early collector price, especially if the car enjoys a strong show list or a unique provenance report.

To sum up, the Austin Healey 100 depreciation reflects robust early preservation benefits but each car’s story—regular storage, service history, and mileage—can significantly shift the trajectory. A solid rule of thumb: expect the first year to chew up 15‑20% of the value, followed by