Highlights
- Original matching numbers engine professionally upgraded to 1000cc
- Bare metal respray in striking Honolulu Blue
- Period-correct push-button floor starter
- Comprehensive restoration with thorough attention to detail
- Original blue seats preserved rather than reupholstered
The Appeal
The MK1 Mini really did change the world. Initially personified as being a 'nurse's car', Issigonis's compact transverse-engined masterstroke ended up becoming a rally champion, one of the bestselling British cars of its era and, equally, one of the most iconic components of the British identity ever. It's a huge resume that's remarkably well-earned.
Early examples of the Mini, before it became the edition-baiting cash-printer that Rover so-loved to exploit in the 90s, have become incredibly popular - they are, after all, the uniquely austere visage that they were intended to be. External door hinges, a minimalist cabin and perky performance all still make for a very evocative, handsome package.
The Mini was a hit in South Africa too, and these are undeniably the cars to buy. The dry, hot conditions are perfect for the thin metalwork that makes up the Mini, protecting it from corrosion and keeping it remarkably solid compared to its English cousins.
This early Honolulu Blue example has been sympathetically upgraded, boring out the original A-Series powerplant up to 1000cc, while certain BMC pitfalls - such as the legendarily weak wiring - have been seen to. The result is a highly original, highly desirable Mini that's better-than-factory, ready and waiting to prove itself for the lucky new owner.
Early examples of the Mini, before it became the edition-baiting cash-printer that Rover so-loved to exploit in the 90s, have become incredibly popular - they are, after all, the uniquely austere visage that they were intended to be. External door hinges, a minimalist cabin and perky performance all still make for a very evocative, handsome package.
The Mini was a hit in South Africa too, and these are undeniably the cars to buy. The dry, hot conditions are perfect for the thin metalwork that makes up the Mini, protecting it from corrosion and keeping it remarkably solid compared to its English cousins.
This early Honolulu Blue example has been sympathetically upgraded, boring out the original A-Series powerplant up to 1000cc, while certain BMC pitfalls - such as the legendarily weak wiring - have been seen to. The result is a highly original, highly desirable Mini that's better-than-factory, ready and waiting to prove itself for the lucky new owner.
History and Paperwork
- 1964 Mini 850, featuring its original matching numbers engine
- Ex-South African example, now in transit to the UK
- Comprehensive restoration documented with receipts, including £2,500 for engine work alone
- Requires first registration with DVLA – a straightforward process.
- The vendor is a former South African resident and is more than happy to assist with the registration process
- He is even happy to handle the whole registration process with the DVLA for the buyer for a small fee if required
- All shipping costs and import taxes have been paid by the vendor
The Condition
- Bare metal respray undertaken in in Honolulu Blue over a rust-free shell
- Bodywork presents in very good order following comprehensive restoration
- True early-Mini features such as the exterior door hinges all present and correct
- Newly refurbished steel wheels look smart and period-correct
- Brand new tyres fitted all around
- Original blue seats retained rather than reupholstered, preserving authenticity
- New carpets and headlining freshly fitted to complement the original trim
- Dashboard in good order
- All instruments in working order following a full rewire
The Mechanics
- Original 848cc A-Series 4-cylinder engine, rebored to 1000cc
- Original matching numbers engine, professionally upgraded
- Engine fully overhauled with documented work totalling £2,500
- 4-speed manual transmission, as built
- Period-correct push-button floor starter in working order
- Completely rewired
- Ready for immediate enjoyment
- Will receive a comprehensive check-over by the vendor's mechanic prior to collection
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