Highlights

Only two former registered keepers
Heritage certificate present
Matching serial numbers confirmed
Built in the spirit of Richard Longman's Cooper S MK2
Accompanied by a large file of period invoices and genuine Downton parts

The Appeal

The Mini Cooper has achieved legendary status in the world of motorsport. A quirky and endearing little car, Alec Issigonis's creation demonstrated its potential through its compact dimensions, light weight and sharp handling. It became a formidable competitor on European circuits, notably racking up victories at Monte Carlo and elsewhere.

This 1968 car has been assembled to evoke Richard Longman's famous Cooper S MK2, combining authentic period components with a freshly rebuilt engine and a Quaife dog-engagement drivetrain. Finished in Sirocco Green with a black cloth and leatherette interior, this Cooper S has had just three registered keepers from new. Its most recent recommissioning in 2025 saw an engine rebuild featuring a big-valve cylinder head, Kent 286 camshaft, and a balanced rotating assembly using the original reground crankshaft. The car completed a round trip by road to the Blyton Action Day event in England in 2025 with no issues.

Acquired by its current owner in 2013, the car has been carefully stored under cover and kept dry throughout this period. In 2019, the engine underwent a complete mechanical overhaul, notably including the installation of an upgraded crankshaft, reinforced con-rods and latest-generation pistons. According to the seller, the engine is now rebuilt and ready to hit the track.

Key Information

Mileage: 80,682 miles (indicated)
Country of registration: France
Technical inspection status: Valid contrôle technique
Technical specs: 1,293cc four-cylinder petrol, four-speed manual (Quaife dog-engagement gearbox)
Paperwork: French registration document (carte grise), heritage certificate, large file of period invoices

The Details

Engine recently rebuilt with a big-valve cylinder head, reworked ports, and high-lift rocker arm assembly
Kent 286 camshaft (old profile) fitted
Original crankshaft reground and treated, paired with a fast-road flywheel; rotating assembly fully balanced
Fed by a single Weber carburettor
Quaife dog-engagement gearbox with limited-slip differential and 3.88 final drive ratio
Water and oil circuits modified for improved cooling and lubrication
Maniflow exhaust system fitted
Hydraulic brakes with discs at the front and drums at the rear
Gotti 10-inch wheels fitted with Dunlop tyres
Roll cage and period bucket seats fitted
Right-hand fuel tank
Central-instrument dashboard
Interior trimmed in black cloth and leatherette
Plenty of racing details and stickers
Small dent noted on the left-hand door and left rear wing
Some patina marks, mainly in the form of light blistering and small paint chips
Well-maintained interior, with bucket seats and competition harnesses
T45 roll cage installed
Fire extinguishers and toggle switches installed
Seven registered owners in total, with only two during its competition career

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also accept the following:

✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a professional seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic's terms and conditions.

✓ We require that non-refundable fees are paid if you are the successful winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our FAQ and terms and conditions for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is "sold as seen", on an "as is, where is" basis, and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are provided for guidance only and it is customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle before purchase for your own peace of mind.

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

✓ We want the transaction to run smoothly, just as you do, and that is why cars and motorcycles registered in the United Kingdom and sold on Car & Classic are subject to an HPI check to verify that they have no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and are not subject to a financial charge, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ Buyers are responsible for collection or delivery of the vehicle. Importing vehicles may incur additional customs duties and import taxes. If you wish, we can recommend a third-party transport company that can assist you. For further details and to speak to the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com.