Named after its ability to reach triple-digit speeds, the Austin-Healey 100 is one of the most iconic British sports cars of all time. Produced from 1953 through 1956, the car was based on the Austin A90 platform and would eventually serve as its successor. Despite more than six-and-a-half decades having passed since the final unit was produced, the AH 100 remains a legend in automotive circles — a fact that’s recently prompted a UK-based startup to begin churning out Austin-Healey 100 continuation cars.
Produced on an extremely limited basis, this reincarnation of the Austin-Healey 100 is being built by hand at Caton’s Coventry headquarters, using a combination of modern and old-school production and design techniques that allow the vehicle to retain the character and spirit of the original while boasting better performance and reliability. Each unit will also be produced on a built-to-order basis in which customers are given a slew of configurable options, ensuring that no two specimens will be exactly alike.
At the heart of the revived 100 is a 3.0-liter four-cylinder engine that cranks out 185hp and 195ft-lbs of torque — a massive bump over the original 1950s sportscar. Based on an original Austin-Healey block, the engine has been heavily massaged, having been lightened, balanced, and then refurbished to zero miles before being bestowed with a full steel crankshaft, upgraded bearing shells, high compression pistons, a race camshaft, and larger Twin H8 carburetors. Like most of the car’s mechanical components, the engine comes from world-leading Healey specialists J.M.E. Healeys — a firm that has strong historical links with the original Healey company.
Limited to just 25 examples worldwide, the Healey by Caton will enter hand-built production in Q2 of this year. And while pricing hasn’t been revealed, more information is available through the startup’s website. This exclusive continuation car is also slated to make its official public debut at the Salon Privé London on April 21st, before making its rounds at a handful of other forthcoming auto shows and events in Europe and the UK.
