Description
This 1960 Mini has been subject to a complete professional nut and bolt restoration which was carried out by ourselves (Perranwell Classic Car Garage) during 2019. A detailed account of the restoration carried out for the customer was featured in the May 2020 edition of Classic Car, we also have detailed records and numerous photos of the restoration.
The customer had purchased the Mini in 2012 as a project in bits and commissioned us to carry out a complete restoration. The car had only had one owner since 1978 and had been dry stored during the majority of its life, thus the bodywork was in relatively good condition but still needed repairs having been first bead blasted. The objective was to retain as much of the original car as possible, in the end new A panels, door skins, rear boot lid, a rear valance and battery box were the only new body parts fitted. The rest were saved and repaired correctly.
Mechanically the engine and gearbox have been completely stripped down and rebuilt. The gearbox was rebuilt using parts from a 1961 box we located, thus enabling us to retain the original gearbox casing. The starter motor and dynamo are the original items restored, although the carburetor was upgraded to a later 1960 type.
There are a few minor concessions to originality. The interior retains the original seats and frames but they are finished in new trim (Navy Blue, with Baby Blue piping) which is closer to the spec of 1961 models. The original wheels would have been riveted, one has been retained as spare but the other four are the welded versions which are far safer. These have been fitted with new Blockley Tyres. The front brakes were upgraded to twin leading shoe as a safety upgrade.
The paintwork has been finished in the original Speedwell blue, and looks stunning. The car looks spotless throughout and the condition and attention to detail that has been taken whilst rebuilding the car can only really be appreciated through inspection.
The underside has been treated with a high temperature clear coat protection and all the inner panels and box sections have been treated with Dinitrol.
The car is available to view in our showroom. If you would like more information on this stunning and probably unique and very early 1960 Mini (Austin Seven) Deluxe please give us a call or email us.
