The Mini 40 was launched in 1999 to mark the 40th anniversary of production of the classic Mini. Largely based on the Cooper S, only 800 examples were produced of which 250 were earmarked for the home market.
The Mini 40 was one of the most expensive production Minis ever made and came with a suitably generous specification that included a matching full leather interior, spot lamps, sports pack arches and 13 inch alloy wheels.
This, then, is a rare car and it’s even rarer to find one in this condition. It’s been used sparingly throughout its life, rigorously maintained and kept out of the elements when not being driven.
It cuts quite a dash in Mulberry red, is in incredibly original condition and comes with original owner’s manuals and Mini 40 promotional material.
Definitely of interest to collectors and Mini aficionados everywhere, this should be a sound investment as well as a bundle of fun. Get your bid in now!PM-24.jpg8.97 MB
The History and Paperwork
Registered new 29 September 1999 as a demonstrator
In same private ownership from 16 November 1999
Driven sparingly and kept in dry storage when not in use
Fewer than 4,000 miles in the last 10 years
Meticulously maintained by the same reputable garage for most of the car’s life
Recently serviced and MoT’d until 12th August 2022 with no advisories
New battery, new front bump stops, new tyres and reconditioned alloy wheels
Full Mulberry red leather with contrasting cream piping
Magnolia faced dials
Turned aluminium dashboard
The rich colour of the leather that adorns the seats and dashboard gives the cabin a very cosy feel and, aside from a slight amount of wear on the cream coloured leather on the gear knob, handbrake lever and steering wheel, it looks hardly used.
Everything is working as it should, the headlining is clean and secure and the carpets, protected by overmats, are all in good order.
In the boot the original jack is in place and the spare wheel looks never to have been used. Overall, the interior is as good as you could hope for, in line with the limited car’s limited mileage.PM-34.jpg7.31 MB
The Exterior
Mulberry Red metallic paint
Twin spot lamps
Sportspack wheel arches
13'' Minilite alloy wheels
The Mini 40 was available in a variety of hues but to our eyes Mulberry red was a fine choice, making the diminutive Mini look very classy, with its pin stripes and badges lending a suitable air of exclusivity. This example is in stunning condition with lustrous paintwork and the refurbished alloys in particular contributing to a very eye catching car.
If we were being ultra-critical, there are a few minute dimples on the boot lid (probably a paint imperfection from the factory) and and on the nearside wing but you have to be looking very closely to notice.
Elsewhere, the tyres are a fresh set of matching Yokohamas, the chrome is all in excellent condition and it all adds up to the kind of car that you will definitely be glancing over your shoulder at as you walk away.4.jpg10.15 MB
The Mechanics
1275cc multi point injection engine
Four speed gearbox
Drives very well
The engine bay would benefit from a little detailing to bring it up to the presentation standards of the rest of the car but the seller describes this as one of the best Minis that he has ever driven.
He reports that the engine is strong and pulls impeccably and that the gear synchros are all in good order with no crunches on the changes. Mechanically, it’s ready to be enjoyed.PM-65.jpeg2.96 MB
Summary
A rare and exclusive Mini in beautiful original condition that is bound to make its next owner very proud.
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