Highlights

Rare model celebrating Paddy Hopkirk’s return to the Monte Carlo rally
Original and well preserved example retaining the features of this limited edition
Solid and very usable example with scope to improve
One of only 160 red Monte Carlo special editions

The Appeal

The Mini Cooper’s success on the Monte Carlo Rally between 1964 and 1967 amazed onlookers and sealed its status as a bonafide motoring classic. Thirty years on Paddy Hopkirk returned to pilot a Mini on the Monte Carlo and the moment was celebrated with a special edition of the plucky little car.

These Monte Carlo special editions were finished, naturally, in red with a host of detail touches setting them apart from other models. Most were sent to Japan but a couple of hundred remained in Europe.

This is one of them, a well preserved example retaining all of the original features of these limited run cars. It is solid and presentable but appears to have been off the road for a few years so will require some recommissioning. Which is surely a worthwhile project for a car celebrating one of the Mini’s greatest achievements.

The History and Paperwork

First registered on 20th March 1995
Some history with the car including a Controle Technique dated 4th July 2014
Insurance stickers in the car indicate it was last in use in 2018
Replacement headlamp bezels and arch trims supplied with the car
Unfortunately at the time of writing we did not have access to the service history for this car
The Monte Carlo was based on the contemporary Mini Cooper
1,000 cars produced of which 200 were sold in Europe
Of the 200, only 160 were red like this car

The Interior

Classic two-tone red and cream interior references the early Mini Coopers
Seat insert and door card trim appears to replicate the pattern of some early Coopers
Interior is well kept and presentable but with some for localised improvement
Wood veneer dashboard with cream dials
Wood veneer around radio aperture beginning to peel
Light stains on bases of front seats
Aftermarket Sony face-off stereo
Cooper gear knob
Red carpets in good condition but may benefit from a valet
Headlining generally presentable but with small marks and a tear above the passenger sun visor
Red leather steering wheel
Rear vanity light is loose from fitting
Remaining switchgear and door fittings in good, presentable condition

The Exterior

Flame Red bodywork with Monte Carlo decals and Cooper trim
Minilite-style black alloy wheels with polished rims and matching spare
Rims are in good condition but with some paint flake visible
Bodywork is well kept with a few minor marks and chips around the car but nothing unsightly
Underside continues the theme showing slight surface rust but nothing of significant concern
Small touched in scratch on driver’s door at the base
Some marks in the rubber surround of the rear window
Small marks on chrome windscreen trim
Lights in good condition with classic four spotlight set up
Chrome in good condition with no visible dents or pitting on the handles and bumpers

The Mechanics

1,275cc fuel injected four cylinder engine
4psd manual gearbox
History file includes old Controle Technique documents and Certificates d'Immatriculation

Summary

The Mini’s success on the Monte Carlo is surely seared into the memories of enthusiasts, a remarkable showing for a small car on a long rally. The 1994 Monte Carlo special edition stayed true to the aesthetics of those wins, its narrow tyres creating a nimble performer just like the original.

This rare European market Monte Carlo retains its special factory fittings and looks to be in solid, very usable condition. Just 160 were sold in this specification. There may be some work to do to recommission it and scope to improve but once done it will be a distinctive and entertaining addition to any collection.

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