Take the legendary Mini and open it up; it's a simple brief in theory, but Issigonis's compact little city car relied on those roof pillars for rigidity, so a true factory convertible wasn't much of an option without a lot of strengthening work. As a result of this, it remained elusive - until the arrival of the Mini British Open, introduced in 1992 with a folding Webasto sunroof to celebrate the British Open golf tournament. It cost a pretty penny and has become vanishingly rare.

This example has been restored earlier in its life, and is a very handsome car. Mechanically, the engine and running gear are reported to be in good working order, though the vendor sensibly recommends a general check before regular road use owing to limited recent mileage. The interior is clean, though some minor burn marks on the seats from a previous smoking owner should be noted.

It's a very evocative modern classic, and we're sure it'll prove equally charming for its lucky new keeper.

BEFORE YOU BUY 

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 of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic's 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. 

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing. 

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all US-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence. 

✓ We also  check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle's status and  it's always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer. 

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection 

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase. 

✓ Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalized, or heritage vehicle registration is not included in the sale of a vehicle.