Frame Off Built 100 Roadster 327 V8 5 Speed

In a world where exotic customization is a fact of life, finding a unique and authentic classic can be a real challenge. Some builds are extremely dated and need to be modernized, while others are so thoroughly modern they'll be dated by next year. One of the best bets you can place is on a timeless creation like this tasteful Austin-Healey. A fully-sorted custom that, in its past life, was named for an acute ability to hit triple-digit speeds, this roadster's parts list reads like a SEMA show midway. There's Chevrolet power, Tremec motivation, Ford-designed gears, a Morrison skeleton, Wilwood binders, Flaming River steering and whole roster of other top notch components. If you've been searching for a super cool resto-mod that can be driven and shown with pride, this impressive cruiser is the perfect solution!

According to past owners, this Austin was converted to V8 power and raced in numerous SCCA modified events during the mid-1960s. That meant, when the time came for a ground-up restoration, the car was a fairly straightforward project. A five year reboot, which included an original body and new front fenders, was split between A&M Deluxe Customs in Cornelius, Oregon and So-Cal Northwest Speed Shop in Tualatin, Oregon. With the heavy lifting complete, a race-themed color combination was built with Ford white and deep blue two-stage. And in 2011, when the current owner purchased the car, he contracted Realistic Auto Restorations of St. Petersburg, Florida to shake everything down. Today, this 100 sports a level of fit and finish that puts most European metal to shame. And that solid appearance is backed by proven mechanicals which make driving an absolute pleasure.

Once your initial visual excitement wanes, this classic's admirable details abound. At the front of the car, an original grille hangs a telling “V8” badge and correct “100” script between Lucas headlights, Lucas driving lamps and small, chrome-trimmed parking lights. Above that grille, a subtle header emblem leads the eye to a louvered hood, original windshield glass and classy chrome trim that's capped by either a fitted Moss tonneau or fresh Moss roof. At the sides of that header, traditional fender toppers perfectly complement polished profile inserts, a small driver's mirror and plastic side curtains. And at the back of the car, an authentic “Austin of England” badge rides between chrome trunk trim, simple tail lamps and brushed nickel bumpers.

Yank this roadster's leather-strapped hood and you'll find a 327 cubic inch Chevrolet V8 that twists 9.5 to 1 compression into roughly 330 horsepower and 350 lb./ft. of torque. Purchased from Precision Engine of Houston, Texas, this road-ready small block features a balanced rotating assembly, Speed Pro pistons and a modern Speed Pro camshaft. At the top of the mill, a trio of reliable 9 super 7 carburetors, which breathe through custom, smoothed air cleaners, funnel life into a shaved Edelbrock intake. At the sides of that intake, cast iron heads hang 2.02 and 1.60 valves between polished Edelbrock valve covers and coated block hugger headers. Behind those headers, an MSD Pro-Billet distributor sequences fire between Ron Francis wiring, an MSD coil and loomed Taylor cables. And in front of those cables, a custom, 4-core aluminum radiator makes good use of a Derale Performance puller fan. In addition to its killer powerplant, this Austin includes a thoroughly detailed engine bay that's complete with Melling timing, an electric coolant pump, ARP fasteners and a reliable Odyssey battery. And the car's first rate aesthetics, which mix smooth white framing with a bright, Chevy Orange core, create great texture and excellent contrast.

Naturally, this Austin's thoroughly updated underpinnings do a bit more than hint at its history as a track weapon. A high quality Art Morrison chassis provides a solid foundation. Behind the 327, a fresh Tremec TKO600 5-speed twists a standard differential around a Ford 9-inch rear end, 3.00 gears and 31-spline axles. That first class drivetrain rolls on a double A-arm and 4-bar suspension; which is fitted with tubular, chromoly control arms, forged, 2-inch drop spindles, a poly-seated, 7/8-inch sway bar and adjustable coil-over-shocks. Turns come courtesy of custom Flaming River rack-and-pinion steering. Smooth and solid stops are provided by Wilwood Dynalite hydraulics, which squeeze 10 and 12-inch drilled and slotted rotors. Spent gases roll from custom, 2.5-inch stainless steel pipes to throaty Magnaflow mufflers and substantial stainless tips. Power spins through attractive Rocket Racing Igniters, which turn 195/65R15 Federal Super Steel 657s around 3-spoke spinners. And everything, from the car's East Coast alternator and Lakewood bellhousing to its custom fuel cell and LeMans filler cap, is well-placed, well-planned and ready to rock.

Like its exterior, the interior of this 100 is simple and tasteful. Front and center, bomber-style seats sport clean Moss leather. Below those seats, custom carpet provides a supple foundation for stylish Coco mats. Above those mats, a classy dash centers a retro mirror on Classic Instruments telemetry, Classic Instruments accessory gauges and a chrome fire extinguisher. In the middle of the floor, a petite shifter features a custom shift knob. Opposite that shift knob, a Moss top materializes on original roof bows. In front of the driver, a custom, Mike Lempert-built steering wheel spins a period correct trafficator. At the sides of the passengers, scuff-free door panels center large map pockets above small kick panels. And behind the car's retracted top, a restored trunk offers adequate storage space.

The sale of this unique vintique includes a Certified Copy of Factory Record, a few restoration receipts, some restoration photos and a bit of Austin-Healey literature.

European classics have aged with more grace than most, wearing designs that are still capable of turning heads in their basic factory form. The restorer's decision to leave those basics alone and make only time-tested adjustments is a huge part of why this Austin works so well. With its smooth V8, modern 5-speed, comfortable interior and vintage swagger, you'll never tire of finding this custom in your garage. Stop watching opportunity pass you by. Add this roadster to your collection today!