Introducing the Healey by Caton, a wondrous restomod using an early BN1-series Austin-Healey 100/4 donor car as its base and then being completely reworked by Healey restoration specialists JME Healeys.
The four-cylinder British roadster made by Donald Healey had a top speed of 100mph and produces 90-HP and 144 lb-ft of torque. It has been upgraded to 3.0 liters, now powering through to 185-HP and 195 lb-ft of torque – moving way past that top speed of 100mph. Healey by Caton is fitted with larger twin SU H8 carburetors, high compression pistons, improved crankshaft and bearings, and a racing camshaft. It now sits on aluminum 15-inch, 72-spoke Borrani wheels with Michelin tires.
Changes have also been made to the chassis, adding new front and rear bulkheads. It has removed the three-speed manual transmission to make way for a modern five-speed manual set that creates more cockpit room with its thinner build. The suspension has integrated new and old mechanisms – it has custom rose-jointed roll bars equipped with double wishbones and adjustable coil springs in the front and the lever arm dampers and leaf springs in the back.
Austin-Healey branding is retained in its exteriors. However, former McLaren Special Operations designer Darryl Scriven incorporated small changes to emphasize its form, including a bolder grille and a clean silhouette due to the removed front and rear bumpers.
It still has the heart of a British roadster with the windscreen rail sitting higher to reduce buffeting. Despite the many upgrades, Healey by Caton will not be getting electronic assistance features, as well as any infotainment and heater.
The Coventry start-up coachbuilder plans to produce 25 units of the Healey starting Q2 this year, which are set to be unveiled at Salon Prive in London from April 21st to 23rd.
Head to https://www.caton.uk/ to learn more about the reimagined British roadster.
