Highlights

Presents well
Recent underside protection carried out
Wonderfully useable

The Appeal

A cultural icon almost unmatched in the British automotive world, the original Mini - brainchild of Alec Issigonis - was introduced in August 1959 in the wake of the Suez Oil Crisis, and went on to become a national treasure, remaining in production until 2000, when the final car - a red Rover Mini Cooper Sport - rolled off of the Longbridge line.

This particular example is a Rover 1.3i example, built during the first year that the venerable A-series engine employed single-point injection, and presents in good order throughout, with a number of considerate upgrades, ready for the next owner to use and enjoy.

History/Paperwork

V5 registered keepers document, showing 4 former keepers
Numerous MiniMan invoices
Partially-stamped service record from new until 2005
Original manual included
Recent underside rust-proofing
MoT certificate - valid until 19 September 2023, showing only one minor advisory for the offside front steering rack gaiter being worn, but preventing the ingress of dirt.

The Interior

Re-trimmed in contrasting red/black vinyl
Presents very well throughout overall
The headliner is taut and free of any damage
There are a few small scuffs to the outer edges of the front seats, lower door cards and inner door jamb areas
The walnut-effect dashboard inlay displays some commensurate wear, along with the steering wheel and rocker switches.
Upgraded Kenwood radio/cassette player fitted
Chrome-effect pedals and door aperture protectors in good order
No reported faults or issues with any of the electrical systems
In the rear, the boot would benefit from a once-over, but is in usable condition

The Exterior

Re-sprayed in original Solid red with contrasting white roof
Cooper graphics recently added
Presents well overall - crisp graphics and bright paintwork
Some wear visible to the lower edge of the front bumper valence
Commensurate wear to the front end, such as stone chips and minor imperfections
The offside front over-arch requires some attention at the top edge
Being very picky, the bonnet appears to sit slightly to the nearside, and this can be seen on the upper edge of the front grille trim
There are some paint runs visible along the lower front edge of the driver’s door, and on the offside rear wing above the coach-line graphics
The nearside door requires some adjustment of the hinges to sit flush
Upgraded Minilite-style wheels in excellent condition, wrapped in matching Falken tyres

The Mechanicals

Venerable A-series engine in full running order
The engine bay/block/ancillaries would benefit from a thorough clean and detailing, but show no sign of any obvious issues
The underside has been recently rust-proofed for continued longevity and survival
Upgraded stainless-steel exhaust system fitted
The vendor has addressed the aforementioned MoT advisory item and fitted a new steering rack gaiter, and reports no other known issues with the car, stating that it “drives well for its age.”

Summary

Iconic, fashionable and desirable, the ‘classic’ Mini in all its forms was an absolute hit, both at home and abroad, and remains to this day a legendary example of British automotive ingenuity and design.

Offered for sale in good condition throughout and with no reported faults from the vendor, this example is ready to use and enjoy as the next owner sees fit, with potential for further improvement, refinement and customisation, should they see fit.

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.

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