Highlights
- Extensively restored in 2016 to an exceptionally high standard
- Driven very few miles since restoration
- Built as Mk I Cooper S, with mechanical improvements
The Appeal
The Mk I Mini Cooper S is one of those cars which seemingly never goes out of fashion. It is perennially popular, and for good reason. It combines style, performance and simplicity into one desirable little package, which is sure to raise smiles wherever it goes.
This particular Mini was built around a Mk III bodyshell, and styled to look like an earlier Mk I Cooper S, with features such as exposed door hinges and Cooper S badging. The work was clearly carried out to a high standard and has resulted in a very handsome looking car.
The interior is beautifully trimmed, the paintwork retains a deep shine and the drivetrain has been improved with a rebuilt 1,380cc A Series engine and further mechanical upgrades, making this a superb driver’s car.
The History and Paperwork
- Registered as first on the road on 7th April 1966
- Built around a later Mk III bodyshell
- Road Tax and MOT exempt
- MOT valid until November 2023
- UK V5C
- Invoice on file for an extensive check over and service in 2021, including oil and filters, a number of new gaskets, new air filter and hose and a number of new dust seals and gaiters
- Comprehensive set of invoices from Mini Sport Ltd, detailing the extensive restoration
- Selection of other invoices detailing servicing and other work carried out as part of the restoration
- 12 former keepers
The Interior
- Beautifully retrimmed interior
- Exceptional condition throughout with no obvious signs of wear
- Seats and door cards trimmed in Connolly leather with tweed inserts
- Astrali Steering wheel
- Heated front and rear windscreens fitted
- A retro-styled modern stereo has been fitted underneath the dashboard
- The seats, dashboard, headlining, carpet all present beautifully
- Central instrument cluster with speedometer, temperature gauge and oil pressure gauge
- Tachometer fitted
- Seatbelts front and rear
- Spacious boot to the rear, with new battery and twin fuel tanks
The Exterior
- Built upon a Mk. III Mini shell, styled to MK I aesthetics
- Exposed door hinges
- Well polished bright red paint
- Restored to a very high standard throughout
- Panel fit and gaps are excellent
- Trim, windows, wheels, light lenses, paint and brightwork all in fantastic condition
- The chrome plating retains a deep shine
- Wheel arch extensions fitted
- Flip-down rear number plate
- Rear spotlamp
- Twin Le Mans style fuel filler caps
- Ten-inch Minilite wheels with Dunlop SP tyres
- The underside is very clean and tidy
- No significant damage or corrosion that we could see
The Mechanics
- 1,275cc engine bored out to 1380cc
- Ported head with 35.7mm and 30mm valves
- Rimflo valves with bronze guides and modified seats
- Lightweight forged 73.5mm Omega pistons
- Swiftune SW5 cam
- Alloy roller-tip valve rockers
- Balanced crankshaft and conrods
- Stock gearbox with new bearings and synchromesh rings with quick-shift
- Cooper S front disc brakes with uprated pads
- Braided brake hoses
- Hi-Lo suspension with Gaz shocks
- Extensive invoices on file for parts and servicing
- Driven very few miles since extensive work was carried out in 2016
- Said to start easily, idle smoothly and sound fantastic
- The owner reports that it drives exactly as it should
- The engine bay is beautifully presented
- Underneath, the running gear looks very clean and tidy
- New battery recently fitted
- No MOT advisories noted
Summary
Built to be a superb replica of a 1966 Mini Cooper S, this car has been finished to a very high standard. It is certainly a car you will be proud to own, as well as being extremely fun to drive.
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.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
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