Description
1984 Mini “Sprite” – Cinnabar Red
I purchased this Mini from an enthusiast in London and have owned it since 2019. During my ownership, I’ve given it a lot of attention, including:
A professionally built 1430cc engine
Upgraded brakes and suspension
General TLC and cosmetic improvements
This is a 40-year-old car, so it has a few blemishes and some rusty bits. Although being a very good looking car, this is not a concours example, but rather a fun, retro-style café racer. While fitting the new engine, I refreshed the engine bay, restored the subframe, and renewed/ serviced the suspension arms, bushes, as well as adding disc brakes and other components.
The car is now tax and MOT exempt and is a great opportunity for an ongoing project—there’s still room for further refinement if you wish, but it’s already fully driveable and enjoyable.
Specification
Engine, Drivetrain & Cooling
Built by Chris at Crafted Classics in Suffolk (craftedclassics. co. uk) and tuned at Hybrid Tune, using MED Engineering and Minispares supplied parts it features:
Standalone ECU
Coil pack (no distributor—no rain-related ignition issues)
124 bhp & 163 Nm Graph available
MED dry head conversion & head gasket
Wedged and bladed MED crank
Forged rods
Omega pistons
Big valve, ported & flowed head
ARP head studs
Roller rockers
Uprated big valves, seats, double valve springs & collets
High-capacity oil pump
High-capacity water pump
Straight cut 4-speed gearbox with cross pin differential
Maniflow exhaust manifold & system
Maniflow intake manifold
High-flow alloy radiator
Boot-mounted fuel pump, filter, and Filter King fuel regulator
The gearbox features a MED straight cut 4-speed gearset and drop gears, with a lightened flywheel and upgraded clutch.
This setup is for enthusiasts—it’s noisy and chatters at idle, but it’s incredibly strong and ideal for spirited B-road driving. It’s not the best choice for long motorway runs, but the sound is part of the charm.
Wheels & Suspension
Original Sprite Exacton 10-inch wheels with Yokohama A008 tyres (they require rim polishing)
Tyre pressure and temperature monitoring system (dashboard display)
Hi-Lo adjustable height turrets (front & rear)
Protec shocks all round
Adjustable tie rods
New competition-type front rubber cones; new standard rear rubber cones
Polybushed front subframe; standard rear subframe
The geometry is set to my own preference and gives excellent turn-in and cornering, but it’s fully adjustable for the new owner to adjust as they wish.
Interior
New black carpets and comfortable herringbone seats
High-gloss black dashboard with 3-gauge binnacle
Note: Speedometer cable either needs replacing or clipping back in behind the dash (new cable included)
Hidden glovebox-mounted gauges: water temperature, oil temperature, oil pressure
OMP steering wheel for excellent driving feel
Seat mounts fitted with extended legroom brackets
Two front door cards do require replacement
Braking
Recent front disc brake conversion with carbon metallic pads
Rear Minifin drums
Brakes are strong and confidence-inspiring
Exterior
Chrome bumpers, boot handles, and number plate light surround (replacing standard black items)
Chrome Aston-style latching fuel cap
Chrome front spotlights, mirrors, wipers, and washers
New classic chrome fog light
Retro black metal number plates
Sills are solid however there is some rust in the boot
Please ask yourself if you are seriously interested before messaging, and if so, I am happy to answer any questions and arrange viewings, and please remember that this is a 40 year old car with age related scars.
Car is located in CM7 Essex and is advertised elsewhere.
