1997 Rover Mini Cooper 1.3

Highlights

Cleverly backdated to desirable ‘60s-style specifications
1960s private registration ‘HSR 91D’ applied
Original 1,275 cc A Series upgraded with a Stage 1 cylinder head, stainless steel exhaust, brake lines and fuel lines, a modern ECU controlled fuel injection
Full bare metal respray followed by Dinitrol corrosion protection

The Appeal

The art of “backdating” Minis is increasingly popular in recent years, and it’s easy to see why.

With early examples of Issigonis’s ingenious creation commanding high prices, it makes sense to give later Minis, (which are not so different in any case), the same look. A further advantage is that some notable advancements were made during the later years of Mini production, so a backdated ‘90s Mini gives you the best of both worlds.

We’re pleased to offer one such Mini which has been backdated to a very high standard. This 1998 1,275 cc Rover Mini Cooper looks every bit like its ‘60s ancestors - the likes of which shot to fame in the hands of Paddy Hopkirk on the gruelling Monte Carlo Rally. Besides the fetching retro-inspired aesthetics, this Mini has been further upgraded with a Stage 1 cylinder head, a stainless steel exhaust system and a whole host of other enhancements to make it one of the best driving Minis around. Inside, there’s an all-new leather interior, additional instruments and a modern Bluetooth stereo.

In short, this is a well-thought-out build that’s sure to appeal to those who want to make the most from their classic cars.

The History and Paperwork

Five former registered keepers
UK-supplied right-hand drive example first registered 30/05/1997
73,751 miles indicated
Five-former registered keepers
Age-appropriate private plate fitted
To be offered with an MOT test carried out

The Condition

The Mini presents very well throughout, with straight bodywork, smart paint and a well-appointed, retrimmed interior
The vendor states that the shell has undergone a full bare metal respray followed by Dinitrol corrosion protection
Much of the front end was replaced during the restoration with Heritage high-quality parts, as was the windscreen surround, rear lower wings, door support panels with extra strengthening
All four inner wheel arches strengthened along with the rear subframe support panels
‘60s-inspired two-tone colour scheme: Almond Green with Old English White roof
Chrome bumpers with over-riders
Subtle wheel arch extensions in black
Early-type rear lights
Auxiliary reversing lamp
Leather bonnet straps
Minilite-style 10” alloy wheels
Bullet-type wing mirrors with chrome finish
Period ‘Morris Cooper S badging’
Retrimmed in green leather to a good standard
Retains its original dashboard layout, with a few additional gauges and a DIN Bluetooth stereo
The upholstery, headlining and carpets present well with no notable wear or deterioration to report
We understand the various cabin electrics to be in good working order

The Mechanics

Original 1,275 cc A Series l4 retained
Four-speed manual gearbox
Disc brakes (front), finned drum brakes (rear)
Stage 1 cylinder head upgrade
1-5-1 roller rockers
Three-branch manifold
Modern ECU-controlled fuel injection system
Morris-badged rocker cover
Auxiliary electric fan fitted
Adjustable rear camber
Re-bushed front suspension
Polished stainless steel RC40 exhaust system
Stainless steel brake lines and fuel lines
The vendor reports that the Mini drives brilliantly, benefitting substantially from the aforementioned mechanical enhancements

BEFORE YOU BUY

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