Highlights
Heavily modified Austin Mini Mayfair
New heritage body shell with doors, bonnet and boot lid
Specialist 1310cc engine by Avonbar racing
Impressive paperwork file
The Appeal
There’s no need to go into a big introduction regarding the Austin Mini. These plucky little motors became icons of Cool Britannia - and well-decorated rally winners.
This 1988 Mini has come to us practically reborn, with a beautifully tuned up 1310cc powerplant, a brand new colour scheme and an all-new interior. The result is a seriously impressive little car that’s got a bold character all of its own. We don’t often see Minis customised to such an exceptional finish, and this is amongst the best we’ve seen.
The History and Paperwork
- 6 previous owners
- Purchased by current owner in 1999
- Underwent extensive repair and modification in 2003
- Paperwork includes:
- All previous MOT certificates
- All service and repair documents
- Various invoices
- Original driver’s handbook
- Rover Mini Spares Catalogue
- Rover Mini Repair Manual
- Haynes Restoration Manual
- Mini Repair Operation Times
- Valuation from the British Mini Club
- Engine power test paperwork
- Driver-produced book charting the car’s modifications
- Multiple receipts and invoices
- 2 sets of keys
- Valid MOT until September 2023
The Interior
- Customised and retrimmed, this jet-black and silver interior is beautifully appointed
- Retrimmed with two-tone leather seats in black and silver
- Brand new carpets throughout
- New Mini Mats and rubber protective mats
- Fitted with brand new dashboard and gauges
- New door caps and handles throughout
- Dark wood trimmed steel-spoked steering wheel
- Pioneer MP3 CD player with 9” speakers in the rear parcel shelf
- Electric windows
- Rev counter fitted
- Mobile phone holder with USB adaptor
- Remote central locking, Thatcham App Cat1 alarm with auto window closure model
- Beautifully maintained throughout with no obvious signs of wear we can highlight
- Seating appears to be free of scuffs and tears with barely a sag in the leather
- Driver's door card has a small cut which has been repaired with a matching repair to the passenger's door card
- New roof lining also fitted
- Entirely unique and beautifully specified - what more could you ask for in this spectacular custom?
The Exterior
- Originally shipped as a red Mini Mayfair, now touts a new body shell in black and silver
- New chrome grill, strips, branding, bumpers and handles
- New chrome locking fuel cap and rear-view mirrors
- Fitted with arch extensions to later Rover specs
- New Minilite wheels - 13” from later Rover specs
- New halogen headlights and front driving lamps fitted
- Paintwork in excellent order with minimal wear
- All sills and seams appear to be in good order
- Stainless steel sump guard fitted
- No signs of chips, marks, blistering or corrosion that we can discern
- Beautifully kept chrome that’s bright and reflective
- Headlights and fog lamps in good order, though the vendor notes the lenses may be fogging slightly
- Very minor marks to the wheel arches, strictly in line with the car’s low post-rebuild mileage
- Underneath, we’re told of no issues - the car has only driven in dry conditions and should be in excellent structural condition
- The personalised number plate D20 DOV is NOT for sale. On a successful auction the registration number should be reverted to the original number F185 MNO on application with the DVLA
- Ultimately, this is a truly unique car from tyres to top - a spectacular rebuilt in a striking colour combo
The Mechanics
- A look into the engine bay is immediately impressive - it looks spick, span and like it means business!
- Originally a 998cc Mini engine No.S545CH01 - now a specialist 1310cc powerplant
- 4-speed manual transmission
- Engine modifications by Avonbar Racing include:
- Fletcher stainless steel radiator
- Silicon hoses, elbows and high plug leads
- A clear distributor cap
- Chrome valve cover, radiator bracket, engine steady and coil
- Stage one stainless steel exhaust kit
- Fitted with a Rover steering rack to facilitate the newly installed wheels
- New G-Max shock absorbers and adjuster rides with R/Neg Camber Brackets
- New front and rear subframes
- Supplied with:
- Pair of ramps
- Pair of wheel chocks
- Pair of axle stands
- Creeper
- The car has only done circa 400 per miles per year since rebuilt
- Kept SORN from October through to March every year
- Always kept undercover in a dry garage
- Reportedly works exactly as expected with no faults
- No major mechanical faults reported
- Single, slight oil leak from the engine - a common sight under Minis (vendor will provide drip tray!)
Summary
There’s little doubt in our mind that this is one of the most impressive Mini custom jobs we’ve ever seen. Not quite a restoration, not quite a replica - it’s a beautifully finished car that should prove to be a star attraction for the future owner’s adventures.
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.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
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