The latest newcomer in the growing restomod business is Caton, a Coventry-based brand that presented a reincarnation of the Austin Healey 100. The model will be handbuilt in a limited number of 25 units with an eye-watering price tag of £ 474,000 (US$ 615,283), including the cost of the donor vehicle.

Cato n might be a new brand but it benefits from the experience of its strategic partner Envisage Group which made the body panels for Jaguar’s own XKSS and D-Type continuation series. Visually, the Austin Healey 100 restomod retains the main features of the original that was sold between 1953 and 1958. However, a closer look reveals that the body has been redesigned to be as pure as possible, benefiting from the latest advancements in the manufacturing process.

 

Changes include the new jewelry-style front grille, slightly different headlights with LED graphics, more sculpted bonnet, aluminum front fenders, new side gills, and the removal of the bumpers, door handles, seams, and beading for a cleaner look. The body panels were handcrafted using traditional tools like the English Wheel for aluminum parts, while the panel gaps are consistent throughout the bodywork thanks to the use of 3D scanning and CNC. As a final touch, the 72-spoke Borrani black aluminum-alloy wheels with black spinners are shod in period-correct remanufactured Michelin tires.

The interior is also redesigned with a narrower transmission tunnel, a new racing-style pedal box, and the removal of the spare wheel and the tonneau cover allowing for more space for the driver and the passenger. Caton suggests that a 6ft tall person can comfortably sit on the driver’s seat while they would struggle to fit in the original. Other treats include the larger door pockets and a couple of USB ports for charging although there is no infotainment or heater. The dashboard and door cards are wrapped in shrink-optimized leather and the seats get premium Bridge of Weir hide. Naturally, each customer will be able to personalize their Austin Healey in terms of colors and materials.

 

Under the bonnet, there is a 2,954 cc four-cylinder engine with twin carburetors that has been rebuilt and improved by specialist J.M.E. Healeys, who also worked on the new and strengthened chassis. The engine is producing 182 hp and 264 Nm of torque which is more than enough for a vehicle weighing around 920 kg. More importantly, Caton opted for a new five-speed gearbox that sends the power to the rear axle replacing the old three-speed transmission for an improved driving experience. The suspension is also improved with double wishbones and adjustable coil springs at the front and leaf springs at the rear. There are no electronic aids or ABS, but stopping power has been upgraded with disc brakes.

The Austin Healey 100 by Caton will make its public debut at the Salon Privé London held at the Royal Hospital Chelsey between April 21 and 23, before embarking on a UK tour. A total of 25 units of the restomod will be handbuilt in Caton’s premises in Coventry, UK, starting from the second quarter of 2022.