Highlights

One of 2,500 1990-only Check Mate editions
Upgraded 1293cc Stage 2 Mini Engine
Custom-fitted leather interior

The Appeal

The classic Mini has long entered the hall of fame as one of the bucket lists of cars you must drive, thanks to the virtues of its appealing driving characteristics and charm. As the car entered the final phase of its life, Rover prepared several ‘Colours’ specials to help keep the car in the public eye, one of which was the Check Mate edition. Only available in 1990, just 2,500 of this series were offered, which included the scarce black version. Offering a specification similar to the Mini Cooper of the era, its white roof, black grille and minilite alloys made it stand out from the usual Mini’s.

At some point in its recent history, this 1990 example underwent an overhaul, that included a full leather interior refurb, with some tasteful trim and facia upgrades. The preservation of its unique black paint finish with Check Mate decals was complemented by a full set of spotlights, a set of sought-after Unipart/GKN GAW122 alloy wheels and the finishing embellishments of additional chrome trim. However, there’s an additional punch to its attributes in that it has also been fitted with an upgraded 1293cc Stage 2 engine. Sold with an MOT to April 2024, it has recently seen a mechanical and visual overhaul, after a period of storage and comes with a rather distinctive number plate.

The History and Paperwork

First registered on the 1st of August 1990
V5 present
One of 2,500 1990-only special editions
Specification based on the Rover Mini Cooper
Sold with a private age-related registration plate
MOT to 26th April 2024 with just one advisory
Recently recommissioned after storage
Historical invoices show welding, new rear cylinders and engine tuning/maintenance
Has covered less than 8,000 miles since 2013

The Interior

Plush upgraded interior specification includes red leather seats and dashboard
Rev counter, vacuum, ammeter and oil pressure gauges fitted
Red leather Seats with white piping in very good condition
Red colour-coded carpets in good condition and damp free
Clean and intact headlining, with a handful of blemishes
After-market interior door handles and winders in good shape
Carbon effect facia intact showing minor signs of age
Ventilation switches show mild discolouration, all are said to function
Leather facia padding in good shape, with no outstanding blemishes on the dashboard
Goodman’s stereo and CD player with twin 6”x 9” JVC speakers mounted to the rear parcel shelf
Sparco pedals
Leather Astrali Steering Wheel and gear knob in good shape
Check-themed rear cushions
Rear seat belts fitted
Sunroof leak-free

The Exterior

Subframes and inner wings appear to be solid
The floor pan has seen some recent welding and shows some evidence of surface corrosion but no structural advisories on the MOT
Panel fit is decent, with acceptable panel gaps
No significant signs of corrosion or dents, but minor blemishes were noted on the nearside front seam
Door bottoms, roof, front wings, boot and rear valance look good
Paint well applied, with a pleasing deep lustre
No significant road wear or stone chips observed
Chrome trim in good shape, with light tarnishing in places
Glass free of damage, rubber seals generally good with mild signs of age in places
Front rally-style spotlights and upgraded Xenon headlamps are intact
Rear lights and rear fog light free of damage
Check-mate decals and badge motifs in good shape
Suitable private registration is included in the sale
Rare Mini Unipart/GKN GAW122 alloys clean with minor scuffs
Matching Falken tyres all show plenty of tread

The Mechanics

Fitted with upgraded 1293cc Stage 2 big bore Mini Engine
4-speed gearbox
idles well, starting up instantly with no issues flagged up on the dashboard warning lights on the day
No oil leaks observed
Shows evidence of a recent service
The engine might benefit from a presentation spruce up
Hoses and ancillaries in good shape
Brakes operate without drama
New front brake pads
Gearbox said to engage without issues
The owner states that the performance is very impressive
Ride typically firm, but said to ride without any knocking or thuds
Full stainless steel exhausts sound purposeful

Summary

When searching through the market for a Classic Mini, it's easy to come across the usual well-finished but somewhat overdone Coopers. The Check Mate not only fulfils a criteria for rarity but its subtle exterior enhancements delicately hint at its potential. Its neatly furnished leather interior and potent pace thanks to its hike in horsepower, also wins you over with those eye-catching exterior upgrades. This Check Mate will undoubtedly reward you with a skilful move.

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.

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