Description
This is a genuine 1991 Rover Mini Cooper with matching VIN and engine numbers as confirmed by the V5C, that has undergone a comprehensive, well-documented restoration completed in 2017 and has covered just under 2, 000 miles since. The aim of the restoration was to return the car as closely as possible to original factory specification, while ensuring mechanical reliability and longevity.
The shell was completely stripped, inspected and professionally repaired where required, with all structural bodywork and paintwork carried out by Wood & Pickett. The car was resprayed to the correct factory colour specification, and the interior headlining was also professionally fitted by Wood & Pickett during the restoration.
Mechanically, the car was rebuilt thoroughly. The engine and gearbox were stripped from the ground up, with all components cleaned, carefully inspected and replaced where required. The engine was rebored to +0. 040” (approximately 1310cc), the crankshaft professionally balanced, and the differential rebuilt. A full nut-and-bolt restoration was carried out, with parts sourced from respected suppliers including genuine Mini Spares products, using original Mini components where appropriate and high-quality aftermarket parts where these are widely recognised as offering improved durability or service life. A brand new genuine rear subframe was fitted, with the front subframe professionally reconditioned.
The interior retains its original Cooper specification, including correct seats and door cards, and presents very well. The original-spec steering wheel is currently being professionally re-leathered and will be refitted prior to sale; updated photographs will be added once this work is completed.
The car sits on original Minilite alloy wheels, professionally refurbished and powder-coated, with Falken 165/ 60 R12 tyres with excellent tread remaining.
The underside is solid and roadworthy, showing some minor surface corrosion consistent with light use over several years since restoration. This is purely cosmetic and expected on a car that has been driven and enjoyed, rather than stored as a static showpiece.
The car is supplied with a comprehensive history folder containing documented rebuild photographs, invoices from Wood & Pickett for bodywork and paint, receipts from recognised Mini parts suppliers, vehicle history documentation, and a current 12-month MOT with no advisories. Matching VIN and engine numbers are confirmed by the V5C and supporting documentation.
Overall, this is an honest, well-restored and properly maintained Mini Cooper that presents extremely well and is ready to be driven and enjoyed.
The car is also supplied with a Stormforce four-layer all-weather car cover. I bought this Mini because I’ve always loved the way a properly sorted classic Mini feels on the road — light, direct, and full of character — and I wanted to restore a genuine Rover Mini Cooper properly rather than compromise with a cosmetic refresh. Minis have a habit of putting a smile on your face at any speed, and this one does exactly that.
What makes this car stand out is that it isn’t simply “tidied up”; it was rebuilt methodically with a strong focus on mechanical correctness, reliability and longevity, while keeping the look and feel true to original factory specification. The restoration is fully supported by a substantial history folder with invoices and photographic documentation, including Wood & Pickett bodywork and paint.
The engine’s rebuild and +0. 040” rebore (approx. 1310cc), balanced crankshaft and refreshed drivetrain give it a punchy, eager feel with the kind of response you only get from a Mini that’s been assembled properly. It’s a real head-turner, equally at home at a show or on a Sunday drive, and it always attracts positive attention.
As a mechanical design engineer within the aerospace sector, I tend to approach projects with an obsessive attention to detail and quality control — and that mindset heavily influenced how this Mini was restored and reassembled. It has been a genuine passion project and a joy to own, but it now deserves an owner who will continue to drive it and enjoy it as intended.
My favourite thing about it is the way it feels: tight, lively and full of character, with that unmistakable Mini charm every time you take it out.
