Description
The “Mini” is a British icon from the 1960’s with Alec Issigonis space cheating design and legendary road holding the car really did bend the rules and straighten the bends.
Milestone Classics are delighted to market an absolute one-off Mini Clubman Van that has been built to the highest standards. We have spent a good deal of time researching the story of this Mini and, like all good stories, this one started “A long time ago in a galaxy far far away”. Well, Weston-super-Mare in the 1980’s!
The car arrived at Milestone Classics with a folder containing the V5, some correspondence and pictures of a complete restoration + photograph of an advertisement in Classic Car Weekly some years ago. The Clubman (then an estate) had just been liberated from long term storage in a garage workshop.
Part 1 – The Early Years
During the 1980’s a highly skilled engineer (John) worked at Wadham Street Garage in Weston-super-Mare. He was looking for a project to make into a ‘hot’ everyday car and landed on a Mini Clubman Estate that needed some work. The twin rear doors were removed, and a single door fabricated and the roof given a new rear ‘lip’ that works really well.
The engine was tuned, given a fast road cam/ twin carbs and some other tweaks including disc brakes. The Clubman quickly earned a reputation for being very very quick.
After a period of time something “broke” and the Clubman was put under a cover and forgotten about.
Part 2 – The Resurrection
Fast forward around 25 years and the Clubman was liberated from storage and eventually bought by John’s friend and former work colleague Phil, a skilled engineer looking for a project.
The Clubman was sandblasted and mounted on a rotisserie when the full extent of the restoration became apparent. All corrosion was cut out, new floors, sills, wings etc fitted and also new pick-up side panels and van panels to allow the conversion to a one-off Clubman van.
The van received a high-quality metallic grey respray, new shiny bits and sports wheels/ Yokohama tyres.
The interior also received significant attention with re-worked dashboard, new seats, the rear was panelled with timber/ carpet and a Lotus sports steering wheel fitted.
Part 3 – The Final Result
Today the Clubman is a real testament to the skill and knowledge of Phil the restorer and his painter. Jamie simply describes the van as driving like a “skewered rat” – his words not mine. I guarantee it will bring a smile to your face.
Ready to use and enjoy the Clubman is the perfect (tax deductible) advertising vehicle or simply a classic to use and enjoy – I have a 1966 Mini Van that I love.
A rare opportunity and we think one not to be missed……you will not find another.
