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

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand..