There is no doubt that the Austin-Healey 100S went down in history as one of the best racing models to come out of the UK in the 1950s. Almost seven decades have passed since Donald Healey developed this convertible sports car that takes its name of the capacity that it had to reach 100 mph (161 km/h). Now he is being honored again with a very special specimen. The Austin-Healey 100 by Caton is a kind of modern restoration of the model, what we would know as a “restomod” and it has surprised us for several reasons.

The first is directly the birth of Caton as a British specialist in the motor world. The aim is to focus on the development of these classic-style vehicles, which are handcrafted and incorporate modern details. They want to treat it practically as a reinvention of the original model by maintaining its philosophy while trying to improve some aspects. The bumpers have been significantly restyled on this striking Austin-Healey 100 by Caton.

It has been done to hide some parts of the chassis and also to give it a more sophisticated touch. On the other hand, it slightly changes the front grille, one of the keys to its design, which is made by hand. The same goes for the headlights, which now have LED technology and daytime running lights. A new air outlet appears and a trim on the flanks to give it more volume. At the rear, the exterior hinges disappear, which are replaced by hidden ones inside.

Other details that the Austin-Healey 100 by Caton has is a special painting that makes it necessary to spend two weeks in the paint shop. Special mention for the 72-spoke Borrani black aluminum alloy rims shod by modern-made Michelin tyres. Inside the transformation is also outstanding. Change the position of the gear lever to free up some space, swapping the original three-speed transmission for a new five-speed manual gearbox.

In addition to the extra room inside, this Austin-Healey 100 by Caton also features race-style pedals. Modern details such as the two USB ports are not lacking, although no modern screens or multimedia systems have been installed. The quality of the materials is outstanding, on the dashboard and on the seats Bridge of Weir leather has been chosen. However, what is most striking is its mechanics.

Based on an original Austin-Healey engine, it has been lightened and balanced, as well as upgraded with a steel crankshaft, high-compression pistons, a racing camshaft, larger Twin H8 carburetors, or a new exhaust system with side outlet. The result is a 2,954 cc four-cylinder block that delivers 187 hp and 264 Nm of torque, enough to considerably improve its original performance.

The driving sensation seeks to be very purist, in fact, not even power steering, ABS system or electronic traction or stability controls have been installed. But other aspects have been improved, such as the suspension, which maintains the original configuration of double wishbone and adjustable coil spring at the front axle and leaf springs at the rear, through new anti-roll bars. Only 25 units of this Austin-Healey 100 by Caton will be made, which could be around 600,000 euros.