Highlights
- Documented 2,544 miles from new
- 1 former registered keeper until 2025
- Stored in a dry garage for approximately 17 years
- Current MOT valid until June 2026 with no advisories
- Assessed by MINI specialist as one of the best R53 Cooper S he’s ever seen
- Opportunity to acquire a factory standard, museum-quality Cooper S
The Appeal
The R53 Cooper S is one of the greatest hot hatches of the last 25 years. Which makes this car all the more special: it has covered just 2,544 miles in 23 years.
Classically finished in Chilli Red with full black leather, it is a quite exceptional example. The seller, who specialises in these cars, describes it as one of the best he has ever seen. Looking at the photos, which show the many remarkable details, you’d have to agree.
The car was acquired by the first keeper in August 2002, early in the MINI’s production run, and used until 2008. Then it went into dry, garaged storage until 2025. The vendor acquired it then and undertook extensive checks and light recommissioning.
The supercharged Cooper S is a fantastic little car. This one has the makings of a show winner or museum exhibit. With advisory-free MOT to June 2026 you’re free to do whatever you wish. But enjoy it, we suspect, you certainly will.
The vendor says:
“An incredible opportunity to own possibly one of the lowest, early examples of the Mini Cooper S R53 in a stunning chilli red colour.
“Would look amazing in a museum or out on the roads ready to be driven and enjoyed
“A mini enthusiast currently owns it. He is the owner of Hyper Works Garage, an independent MINI R50, R52 and R53 specialist, and says it is one of the best MINI R53 that's ever come through the doors. A truly immaculate well cared for example.”
History and Paperwork
- First registered 7th August 2002
- First keeper to 2025
- The original owner drove it until 2007/2008
- Then stored in a dry garage until 2025
- Acquired through an estate sale in 2025
- 1 former registered keeper on the logbook
- Current MOT valid until 13th June 2026 with no advisories
- Documented mileage of 2,544 miles
- Currently stored in a dry garage
- Current keeper runs Hyper Works Garage (independent Mini R50, R52, and R53 specialist)
- The vendor informs us that this is one of the best Mini R53s they have seen at the garage
- Factory handbooks and wallet as shown
- 1 key with supplying dealer keyring
- MOT records verify low mileage
The Condition
- Factory standard car in Chilli Red with very good paintwork and fittings
- Exterior and underneath present well as can be seen in photos
- Vendor reports that there are no major marks, scratches, or blemishes
- Multispoke alloy wheels showing barely if any age or marks
- Matching tyres all round in good condition
- Underside presents very well looking barely used
- Fittings under bonnet and elsewhere look virtually new as shown
- Black leather interior in very good order with few indications of use
- Fully functional air conditioning
- All instruments work properly we are told
- No marks or wear to seats according to vendor
- Seller states that it still has "new Mini smell" inside
- We are told that only the tyres and battery have been replaced
The Mechanics
- 1,598cc 4cyl supercharged engine
- 6-speed manual transmission
- Documented mileage as shown
- Mechanically sound - everything works as expected we are told
- Vendor reports that engine runs quietly and supercharger produces its characteristic whine
- No oil leaks from engine or gearbox according to seller
- Current MOT with no advisories
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
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