Beschreibung
1972 Austin Mini Cooper 1275 S Downton Touring in Teal blue.
This mini was bought by Philip Splett in 1973 and he has owned it for 46 years. Philip has helped to run the Mini Cooper Register for the last 35 years including being chairman. His passion for Minis lead to him owning many over the years but he always kept 3 right up to the stage where he is no longer able to comfortably drive them. He has driven the minis all over Europe and can now think back over the great times he has had driving them.
This mini was delivered to Downton Engineering when on 113 miles. Downton then completely stripped the engine and rebuilt it to their standards balancing all parts as necessary. New Hs4 twin carburettors where fitted onto the Downton stage 3 cylinder head which breathed through a new modified exhaust system. The gearbox was modified by adding a central oil pick up and the flywheel was lightened. The end result was a smooth, refined, free revving engine which has now covered 50600 miles and is running wonderfully. I have all of the original Downton paperwork for the conversion to this mini. When Philip bought the car he changed the wheels to 6 by 10 Minilites with Special Tuning arches, had the suspension changed to dry with shock absorbers which was all carried out by Jon Mowatt in the 70s. The car has featured in lots of books including Jeremy Waltons Guide to the Cooper. There is a road test report of the car by Michael Bowler (ex Jaguar racing driver) and another full test drive report by John Surtees (ex F1 driver).
It is the 5th to last MK 3 Cooper S ever made and Philip assures me that it is all original including the paint which after 47 years is remarkable. I do have all of the past MOTs from new as well as a fascinating history file of paperwork, magazines, books and photographs taken over the last 46 years. There is also a wonderful Dion Pears painting of the car which is very large and impressive and adds to this remarkable package. The original Lime Flower interior is very clean and the original carpets still look good today. The Wabasto Sunroof was fitted by Popperwells in the 70s and works very well and is in immaculate condition. The car was ordered from new with a Silent Travel Kit which was a factory option and fully insulates the interior which is still there under the carpets and in the boot. This is a once in a life time opportunity to buy a very well known Downton Cooper S from a well known owner who has cared for the car for 46 years, which is in original condition and has a remarkable history file. Free delivery to your door in my curtain sided van within 200 miles of South Molton. This mini is very hard to price due to its unique nature so is being offered with a guide price of £40, 000 - £50, 000 offers welcomed. Please see my website for over 50 pictures.
