Vendor supplied images

Highlights

  • Unrestored, exceptionally original and beautifully preserved
  • Just one former registered keeper
  • Maintained by a Leyland main dealer until the early 1990s and thereafter by a Mini specialist
  • Just 75,600 kilometres (approx. 47,000 miles)
  • All work carried out since new documented in a sizeable history file
  • Regularly attends shows and recently driven 300 kilometres without issue
  • The original bill of sale and book pack accompany the car
  • Matching numbers

The Appeal

More often than not, the most alluring classic cars are not the fastest, rarest nor the most expensive. No, the classics that pique our interest are those that are original, storied and well-preserved.
When did you last see an unrestored right-hand drive Mini in such good condition as this 1973 Clubman? We’ll wager you may never have, as let’s face it, these cars weren’t built to last the test of time - but this one has…
Exceptionally original, beautifully presented, accompanied by a rich history file and in fantastic driving condition, this Mini really does tick all the right boxes. It’s had just one former registered keeper who acquired the car new in 1973 and the original bill of sale survives to this day. 
The vendor shows us that there’s not a hint of corrosion in any of the usual Mini trouble spots: The gutters look to be in impeccable order, the original floors are still finished in their factory coatings on both sides and the welded seams are crisp throughout. The interior is similarly remarkable, with no notable wear to the factory seat upholstery and we’re informed that even the door seals, under-bonnet cladding and boot mat are the original items. 

The vendor has driven the car to several shows, recently completing a 300-kilometre round trip with no issues to report whatsoever. They comment that the Mini still handles like a go-kart and drives well with no untoward noises.
You simply don’t see unrestored original Minis in such impeccable order, let alone with such a well-documented history as this. For collectors or those wishing to prepare a show car for the summer season, this Clubman would be an eminently worthy candidate.

The History and Paperwork

  • One former lady keeper
  • A long-term Mini Club Association member 
  • AA member since 1973
  • Original bill of sale
  • Original Leyland book pack
  • Just 75,600 kilometres (approx. 47,000 miles)
  • Right-hand drive South African import
  • Stored in a ‘bubble’ capsule to continue its preservation
  • All work carried out from new is reportedly documented within the sizeable history file
  • Reportedly matching numbers
  • Regularly maintained by a Leyland dealership until the early ‘90s and from then on, it has been looked after by independent Mini specialists
  • Retains period dealer and service stickers in the windows



The Condition

  • Unrestored and has reportedly never received welding or bodywork repair
  • Impressively straight and solid original bodywork
  • The factory floor pans show no signs of corrosion and retain their original finishes on both sides
  • 10” steel wheels still fitted with the correct Leyland hub caps
  • The factory chromework looks immensely smart considering its age
  • The glass is reportedly all original, as are all the rubbers and grommets which are still in good condition for their age
  • Original door cards and seat upholstery in very good overall condition
  • The vendor points out a slight crack in the dashboard which should be simple to repair
  • Original instruments, switchgear, controls and gaiters
  • Replacement carpet fitted - although the boot liner remains original
  • The original headlining survives in very good shape

The Mechanics 

  • 998 cc A Series engine
  • Four-speed manual gearbox
  • The only recorded replacement items are the clutch, which was replaced on one occasion along with its slave cylinder, the starter motor and starter solenoid
  • Retains its original 12-volt Dynamo which reportedly still works well
  • The engine compartment appears entirely original and largely untouched over the years
  • We’re informed that it starts readily and runs smoothly with good oil pressure and without untoward noises 
  • The vendor comments that the car has driven beautifully during their custodianship, belying its age



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 deposit. 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 UK-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. If requested we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected] 

Please see our FAQs here and our Terms & Conditions here

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Auction Details
  • Year 1973
  • Make Austin
  • Model Mini Clubman
  • Colour White
  • Mileage 75,600 Kilometres
  • Engine size 999
  • Seller Type Trade
  • Town Dublin
  • Country Ireland
  • Auction ends
Bidding history
9 bids from 6 bidders
  • Dickyf £5,000 01/07/24
  • zagato.•••• £4,400 01/07/24
  • Dickyf £4,000 29/06/24
  • alabama•••• £2,100 29/06/24
  • bertiew•••• £2,000 29/06/24
  • alabama•••• £1,900 29/06/24
  • Dickyf £1,800 27/06/24
  • p-mccar•••• £1,500 27/06/24
  • vintage•••• £500 27/06/24

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