Description
One of just four test 'mules' built by Rover Special Products and John Cooper Garages, of which only two are thought to still exist
Tested at a constant 90mph for 20, 000 miles to highlight any issues should they be present resulting in Rover giving the project the ‘go ahead’
Finished in Black with an Old English White cap, freshly refinished to a superb level
Will be Rolling Road Tested prior to sale and also issued with a fresh MOT
An important part of Mini Cooper history awaiting its next custodian
One of just four ‘mules’ built, prototype No 0001/ B-S is not a mainstream Rover Cooper but in reality a very important car in terms of Mini Cooper history. Produced by Rover Special Products in conjunction with John Cooper Garages, this particular ‘S’ was used for extensive testing to develop the John Cooper S-conversion which was available on the limited RSP model and the mainstream Cooper. It was used as a high speed test car being driven at a constant 90 mph for 20, 000 miles on the German Autobahn resulting in the Cooper S conversion being given official backing by Rover. Signs of those testing times still remain in place such as the fire extinguisher, carried by all Rover test cars, and the temperature sensing stickers on the gear box tunnel and in the engine bay. Once its job was completed the car was sold to RSP employee Gavin Hall who confirmed the history of the Mini including obtaining written proof from Mike Cooper, then Managing Director of John Cooper Garages Ltd. Featured in Mini World in 2001, then in the hands of Charles Shearn, the car has remained in superb condition throughout, with little use in recent times, hence a comprehensive recommissioning has just taken place bringing this little mule back to its former glory. A Cooper S that has played an important part in Mini folklore and as such is a desirable addition to any Mini fanatic’s collection.
