Highlights

Electric Blue with white roof — the launch colour for the R53 Cooper S as presented by BMW in early 2003
One of the first examples registered in Italy, dating from May 2003
Unmodified and original, which the vendor notes is increasingly rare for the model
Extensive recent mechanical work supported by a detailed invoice file
Registered with the Automotoclub Storico Italiano (ASI) with a certificate of historical relevance

The Appeal

The R53-generation Mini Cooper S occupies a special place in the modern classic landscape. With its Tritec-derived 1.6-litre engine boosted by an Eaton supercharger, it delivered a driving experience that was raw, immediate, and utterly addictive - a worthy spiritual successor to the original Cooper S.

Finished in Electric Blue with a white roof, the very colour combination used for BMW's official launch of the model in early 2003, this impressive car was one of the first R53s to arrive in Italy and has had just two former registered keepers before the current vendor acquired it in April 2024. Crucially, it remains mechanically and cosmetically original, with no modifications to the engine, suspension, or bodywork.

The vendor has invested significantly in bringing the car to a high standard. A long list of mechanical work has been carried out over the past two years. A full service was completed in December 2025, encompassing spark plugs, oil, filters, and brake fluid. The vendor reports that the car now runs and drives as it should and is ready for any journey.

History and Paperwork

Italian-market left-hand-drive car, first registered in May 2003
Two former registered keepers; current ownership since April 2024
116,000 km shown on the odometer, which the vendor states is genuine and verifiable via invoice history or Carfax report
Registered with the Automotoclub Storico Italiano (ASI) with a certificate of historical relevance
Revisione (Italian vehicle inspection) valid to March 2028
Two sets of keys
Original handbooks and on-board documentation from new
Detailed invoice file covering recent mechanical and cosmetic work
Carfax report available on request

The Condition

Electric Blue paintwork with white roof, recently machine-polished with removal of minor age-related marks
The vendor states the bodywork has never been damaged or involved in an accident
New Continental tyres fitted, matching the original equipment specification
Original interior upholstery reported to be in good order with no tears
Headlining replaced, addressing the common delamination issue found on R50/R53 models
Brand new dashboard cover replaced at a BMW dealer due to slight deformation of the original plastic (invoice provided)
Handbrake gaiter and gear lever gaiter replaced with handmade leather items by a local artisan
New headlights fitted, replacing the originals which had become opaque (invoice provided)
Chrome Line trim fitted (genuine Mini accessory, sourced from Kent Mini Spares in the UK)
Non-chromed original instrument covers also included
Blaupunkt 'Essen' aftermarket stereo with Bluetooth and CD player; original stereo also included with the car

The Mechanics

1.6-litre supercharged four-cylinder engine producing 170 bhp
6-speed manual gearbox
Clutch and clutch pump replaced (invoice provided)
Rocker cover gasket replaced to address a known oil seepage issue on the model
Gearbox oil seal, sump gasket, and gearbox oil replaced
New shock absorbers fitted
Work completed in April 2025, with invoices supplied:
- Heat exchanger replaced at BMW dealer 'Granturismo' in Naples
- Power steering hoses and reservoir replaced at BMW dealer
Work completed in May 2025:
- Air conditioning recharged
- Battery replaced
- Starter motor replaced at BMW dealer (invoice provided)
Front anti-roll bar drop links replaced in November 2025, invoice provided
Work completed in December 2025:
- Supercharger oil changed at Mauriello Sport, Avellino
- Injectors serviced
- Water pump replaced
- Full service including spark plugs, oil, filters, and brake fluid (invoice provided)
- Throttle body replaced
- Windscreen washer pump replaced
The vendor reports the car runs and drives to a very good standard

BEFORE YOU BUY

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