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Rétromobile 2026: Austin Healey Event Recap

Posted: Tuesday, 17 February 2026 @ 15:55
Austin Healey owners discussing restoration projects at the A H Spares stand during Rétromobile 2026 in Paris.

Retromobile 2026 – A Week of Austin Healey Conversations

If you’ve ever attended Rétromobile in Paris, you’ll understand why it remains one of the most important dates in the classic car calendar. Rétromobile 2026 delivered exactly what Austin Healey owners hope for: serious conversations, technical discussion, and a shared appreciation for well-engineered cars.

From the first morning, there was a steady flow of visitors to our stand in Hall 7.1. What stood out this year was the noticeable number of younger owners stepping into Healey ownership. It’s encouraging to see a new generation taking on restoration projects and keeping these cars active on the road. The future of the marque looks secure.

John and Patricia spent the week answering questions ranging from hood fittings and cooling systems to panel alignment and long-term restoration planning. Many conversations began with a small technical question and developed into wider discussions about sequencing work correctly and choosing the right Austin Healey parts for the job. That’s exactly what events like this are for.

Patricia from A H Spares with an Austin Healey owner beside the BT7 inner bodyshell assembly at Rétromobile 2026.
John Lee explaining the Austin Healey BT7 inner bodyshell assembly to a visitor at Rétromobile 2026.
Austin Healey BT7 centre-change inner bodyshell assembly manufactured by A H Panels and displayed at Rétromobile 2026.

The BT7 Inner Bodyshell Assembly

The centrepiece of our stand was the BT7 inner bodyshell assembly, and it drew consistent attention throughout the show.

Seeing the structure exposed gives owners a clearer understanding of how the car is engineered beneath the finished panels. The alignment of inner wings, floors, bulkheads and chassis points is something that can’t be fully appreciated in photographs. Standing beside it, examining the geometry and weld detail, visitors could see first-hand the level of precision involved.

The interest it generated wasn’t about spectacle. It was about reassurance. Owners want to understand what they’re investing in and how it will affect the long-term integrity of their car. Being able to discuss that openly, in person, makes a difference.

Long-standing A H Spares customers visiting the Austin Healey stand at Rétromobile 2026 in Paris.
Visitors examining the Austin Healey BT7 inner bodyshell assembly at the A H Spares stand during Rétromobile 2026.

Why Events Like Rétromobile Matter

Rétromobile is never just about displaying parts. It’s about meeting owners at different stages of their journey, from first-time buyers of a Frogeye to long-standing Big Healey custodians maintaining cars they’ve owned for decades.

A H Spares exhibition stand at Rétromobile 2026 featuring the Austin Healey BT7 inner bodyshell assembly in Hall 7.1.

It’s also a reminder that the Austin Healey community remains strong, knowledgeable and international. Over the week we spoke with owners from across Europe and beyond, all united by the same goal: keeping these cars properly maintained and correctly restored.

To everyone who visited us in Paris, thank you. The conversations were thoughtful, technical and, as always, enjoyable.

If you didn’t catch us at Rétromobile 2026, our next event will be Retro Classics in Essen, Germany, from 8th to 12th April 2026. We look forward to continuing those discussions there.

Rétromobile 2026 – FAQ

What was the main focus of A H Spares at Rétromobile 2026?
Our stand centred on technical conversations around Austin Healey restoration, with the BT7 inner bodyshell assembly as the structural showcase. We also advised owners on parts compatibility, sequencing, and long-term project planning.
Why was the BT7 inner bodyshell assembly displayed?
Displaying the inner bodyshell allows owners to see the structural geometry and panel alignment in detail. It provides reassurance about build quality and helps explain how correct foundations influence the finished car.
Can I still get advice if I missed Rétromobile?
Yes. If you were unable to attend, you can contact us directly to discuss your Austin Healey project. Include model details, chassis numbers if possible, and any part references for accurate guidance.
Will A H Spares attend Rétromobile again?
We regularly exhibit at major European classic car events. Upcoming appearances are listed on our events calendar, including future Rétromobile participation.
Where can I find the Austin Healey parts discussed at the show?
You can browse our full range of parts online: If you are unsure about compatibility for your model or production year, contact us before ordering and we will help confirm the correct parts.

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Gallery Images

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