Description
The Mini (ADO15) is a rule breaking/ space cheating design icon penned by the brilliant Sir Alec Issigonis. The car entered the popular culture of the 1960’s thanks to well publicised purchases by film/ music stars while the worldwide competition success of the ‘Cooper’, both on the track and rallying stages, where handling outshone power, appealed to any driver looking for one of the ultimate driving experiences you could wish for - just don't lift off....
The Mini remained in production for over forty years and was available in a variety of options but it is the Mk1 Cooper’s that truly broke the rules and straightened the bends.
Around 2017 an engineer/ car enthusiast in Cornwall was aware that a local Cooper was going to come to market. Stephen was looking for an “up-and-running” car to use and enjoy – he had owned/ recommissioned/ restored around twelve saloons and vans previously. The car appeared in his garage shortly afterwards as a present from his wife and, after a period of use, he decided to bring the car back up to show standard but capable of regular use.
Over a period of time Stephen completed a full body and mechanical restoration (with photographs) and the final result is a real credit to his skill, knowledge and the depth of his pockets – she is lovely.
In 2024 a local West Sussex classic car collector/ racer decided that he had to “scratch his Mini itch” - he had owned over 80 classics but never a Mini - and after lots of wasted viewings Brian finally landed on this stunning 1967 Mk1 example and purchased her immediately.
Summary:
· Fully restored around 10 years ago.
· Floors/ sills/ doors/’A’ panels etc as required (photographs)
· Full engine/ gearbox rebuild (Paul Inch Engineering)
· Full respray to original colours (Thompsons Plymouth)
· Full interior retrim (Newton Commercial)
· Cooper high back recliners/ rear seats retained
· All mechanical components inspected and replaced as required
· Original hydrolastic suspension retained
· Large history folder back to 1981 with lots (and lots) of invoices
· Original wheels and matching non-spotlight boot lid comes with the car
The exhaust note is utterly addictive and on the road the car is everything a Mini should be – torque steer in first with tyres scabbling for grip (if desired) OR a stunning classic to be polished, used and enjoyed with backup from one of the best and most welcoming car clubs in the UK – the London to Brighton Run in my minivan was always my favourite club event of the year.
Everyone should own one Mini in their life….. you will not be disappointed.
