Just 25 Examples Of This Gorgeous Austin Healey Restomod Will Ever Be Made

Those with deep pockets and a penchant for British sports cars have plenty of tantalizing options to choose from. The brand new Lotus Emira comes to mind. If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, there are any number of bespoke outfitters that can turn your automotive fantasies into a reality. David Brown Automotive is a great example.

However, a new company has arrived on the scene with a modernized version of the legendary Austin Healey 100. Self-described luxury brand Caton is offering just 25 examples of the hand-built creation which, it says, is a truly intoxicating driver’s car. The graceful styling remains and the company’s gentle revisions lend the Healey by Caton some individuality.

Described as a piece of jewelry, the front grille has been redesigned to represent the performance capabilities of the restomod. The signature bumpers have been removed for a streamlined appearance, while the front valance has been lengthened to conceal the chassis’ legs. LED headlights are one of the very few hat tips to the 21st century.

Under the sculpted hood sits a naturally aspirated 3.0-liter four-cylinder engine with around 185 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. Caton completely strips the engine and refurbishes it to zero miles. A steel crankshaft, uprated bearing shells, and high compression pistons are among the various enhancements fitted to the engine. Excellent throttle response comes by way of larger Twin H8 carburetors and gas flow inlets, while a race side-exit exhaust system lets out a mighty bellow. A five-speed manual gearbox supplants the original three-speeder.

There are no driver’s aids to keep you out of the ditch; those behind the exquisite wood-rimmed steering wheel will have to have their wits about them. That’s not to say the Healey by Caton is a handful. Serious stopping power is afforded by four-pot alloy calipers with vented front discs and crisp handling is provided by the double-wishbone and adjustable coil spring configuration suspension setup at the front. Round back, the hand-built roadster retains the leaf spring system.

The 72-spoke Borrani wheels have been painted black for a more contemporary look. Wrapped in period-correct, modern Michelin tires, the Healey looks ready to tackle Le Mans. Those looking to recreate the heyday of British motoring will be overjoyed by the basic but beautifully trimmed cabin. Leather abounds and teams beautifully with the aluminum and wood detailing.

Interestingly, shrink-optimized leather is utilized for everything but the seats. “We elected to upholster the seats in premium Bridge of Weir hide, which enriches the cabin with the fragrance of leather, and will develop a beautiful patina over time,” said design director Darryl Scriven.

It’s no Goodwood revival special, though. The team was careful to balance the user experience and wanted it to be enjoyable for long road trips or quick countryside blasts. “We’ve extended the height of the front windscreen slightly to reduce buffeting and added strengthening elements to the seat frames, giving the period-style seats more support and greater comfort,” Scriven added.

The company wants to provide an enjoyable experience to customers before they’ve even seen the car. Through a bespoke service exclusive enough to rival Bentley’s Mulliner program, clients will be able to trim and specify the car to their exacting requirements and, as the company puts it, “immerse themselves in every stage of their car’s development progress.”

They’re not joking; customers are privy to unlimited one-on-one liaisons with the company to make sure everything is just right. What’s more, regular visits to the Coventry-based headquarters and design studios are also up for grabs. Despite the rather traditional shade of British Racing Green worn by the vehicle seen here, Caton says customers can choose from any color imaginable.

Production of this special motorcar will commence in the second quarter of 2022, with the global debut taking place at the prestigious Salon Privé from 21-23 April. There’s no word on pricing but, judging by the price tags affixed to other British restomod products, this will likely remain the preserve of the wealthy.