Description
Over the 40+ year production life of the Mini, numerous special edition models were created. Just prior to the final year of manufacture - in 2000 - Rover Cars created the ‘Paul Smith Limited Edition Mini’ in collaboration with renowned British fashion designer Paul Smith. As might be anticipated, these cars were made in limited numbers – just 1800 – and only 300 of these were allocated to the British market.
Launched in the summer of 1998, the car was finished in just one colour scheme for the home market – a unique Paul Smith shade of blue. But, given this car is something of a fashion statement, there are other elements finished in a contrasting, bright citrus green colour - the glovebox interior; petrol tank and boot liner. These are said to mimic the ‘pops of colour’ found in Paul Smith’s clothing designs. Equally eye-catching is the 24-carat gold enamelled “Paul Smith” badge on the bonnet and a green Great Britain map badge on the grille.
This example was first registered in February 1999, new in Jersey. It has since remained in the island with a few careful local owners, the current one since 2011, whose use has brought the total mileage up to just over 27, 000 miles.
Mechanically, the Paul Smith LE is a standard late model, fuel-injected 1275 cc Mini, with a 4-speed manual gearbox. The A Plus series engine is good for a claimed 62 bhp at 5700 rpm giving a top speed of around 90 mph. A non-original, larger-bore performance silencer is fitted. Most recently, the car has benefitted from a brake system rebuild, with new calipers and pads at the front and wheel cylinders at the rear. New steering rack gaiters and track rod ends have also been fitted. The Mini is in good working order, as might be expected with a well-cared for, low mileage vehicle.
The unique blue bodywork remains in very good condition and has received some work and fresh paint in recent years to ensure it remained so. The charcoal grey 12” Minilite alloy wheels are in good order as are other model-specific items such as the twin spot lamps and special badging.
Inside, the car is finished in black leather, providing smart and sophisticated looking seating. All carpeting is in good condition. The dash is colour-coded to match the exterior paintwork, with a padded black leather top. The instruments carry unique Paul Smith-scripted graphics.
This is a very special, limited edition model Mini – with only a small number created, the car became an almost instant collector’s item. It has an eye-catching exterior finish together with an exclusive and luxurious interior. With a low mileage and very good running order throughout, this car is ready for regular use in the hands of a new owner.
The car is currently Jersey registered and we can assist with shipping and importation processes if required. We can ship worldwide.
