Highlights
- Unique one-off AH100 update using spaceframe chassis
- Pilgrim 3000 body with BMW Z3 2.8L running gear
- High end build with £15,000 spent in parts alone
- Classic light blue metallic over cream colour scheme
- Registered with DVLA as an Austin Healey 100
The Appeal
When BMW launched its Z3 response to the Mazda MX5, many saw in its retro-style lines and extensive bonnet a modern-day update of Austin Healey’s original 100 and 3000 sports cars. It’s an idea pursued to its logical conclusion by the builder of this remarkable one-off.
We have described this car as a 1955 Austin Healey 100 because that is how DVLA identifies it. But there is quite a lot more to it. We understand that the project was begun by Stuart Taylor Motorsport, which specialises in such bespoke cars. The body is one of Pilgrim Motorsports’ well-regarded fibreglass replicas finished in classic light blue over cream. It clothes a bespoke, lightweight spaceframe chassis. Within that arrangement lies the running gear of a BMW Z3 with the grunty 190bhp 2.8L straight-six motor. There are modern driver aids like ABS, traction control and disc brakes all round.
The work was begun around 10 years ago and took several years. There is an extensive, multi–page list of all the work that shows at least £15,000 expended in parts alone. The result is a pretty 100 evocation with modern handling and performance. The vendor tells us that everything works as it should and it drives very well.
This is the sort of car with which to beguile purists at classic car shows. We highly approve of its clever blend of classic styling and modern capabilities.
The History and Paperwork
- DVLA records first registration as 1955
- UK registered 6th November 1979
- Two reported keepers since first UK registration
- Current keeper records from March 2019
- Colour change reported March 2019
- DVLA records engine size as original AH100 2,660cc
- VIN number BN1228007
- BMIHT heritage certificate as shown for original VIN plate
- Car is fitted with a Healey chassis plate as shown
- Extensive type list of work from 2013 to 2015 as shown
- Vendor reports that over £15,000 invested in parts alone
- Older adverts for car from 2016 as shown
- These show the car was fitted with a Pilgrim body during the work
- Specification listed below
- Drawing for spaceframe chassis shown in photos
Summary of specification supplied by seller:
- BMW Z3 running gear
- 2.8L straight six fuel injected engine
- Power steering
- ABS
- Traction control
- Spaceframe chassis
- 5spd manual gearbox
- Brake discs all round
The Condition
- Evocation using Pilgrim Motorsport 3000 fibreglass body
- Painted in classic light blue over cream colour scheme
- Paintwork is in fair condition with some minor points to note in photos
- Body is generally well kept with good panel fit and finish
- Points to note in photos including bubbling to boot lid and marks to arches
- Well kept chromework and lights as shown
- Badged as an Austin Healey as shown in photos
- Fitted with 15in Minilite-style alloys in fair condition with centre caps missing
- Spare wheel in boot with what appears to be a new tyre fitted
- Spaceframe chassis with aluminium and fibreglass elements as shown
- We are told that the chassis has been Lanoguard treated
- Bespoke interior with Z3 dials set into centre arrangement as shown
- Z3 seat bases modified with rear bucket-style seats in black leather
- Black carpets and door trims in fair condition
- Z3 centre console heater switchgear as shown
- Black tonneau cover included
- We have no reports of faults with electrics, lighting or switchgear
The Mechanics
- BMW Z3 2.8L straight six fuel injected 190bhp engine
- Modified cam cover with ‘BMC’ lettering
- 5spd manual gearbox
- £15,000 spent on parts to develop the car as shown in photos
- Fan thermostat as shown
- Aluminium fuel tank in boot
- BMW Z3 running gear including power steering, ABS, traction control and disc brakes
- No reported running or driving issues
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