Highlights
- No. 56 of only 500 made worldwide
- Genuine 13,123 miles
- One owner from new
- Stored in a dry, heated garage
- Private plate not included in sale
The Appeal
In 1959 Jack Brabham won the F1 world championship – it was the first constructor’s championship that John Cooper won, and to mark the 50th anniversary, this R56 based special edition was produced. Initially limited to 250 units, eventually 500 numbered cars were produced, the vast majority of those going to Europe and the USA. As such, this is probably the rarest modern MINI on the UK roads today.
Here we have number 56 of 500, a well cared for and handsome example, presented with exceptionally low mileage and with just one owner from new. This prestigious and rare hot hatch is the perfect car for those that love a B-road blast, or anyone that wants to add an uncommon special edition to their collection.
The History and Paperwork
- 1 of just 500 built for the worldwide market
- Limited edition number 056
- Built in October 2009
- First registered in November 2009
- One owner from new
- Always garage stored, with underfloor heating
- Just 13,123 miles from new - confirmed by MOT history
The Interior
- Carbon Black leather upholstery with Rooster Red piping and cabin accents presented in excellent condition with little evidence of wear
- Carbon fibre trim in fine condition, with no signs of damage
- Black carpets with matching red-accented overmats, all in very good order
- Anthracite headlining – presented in excellent condition with no evidence of sagging or damage
- Harman Kardon premium sound system with DAB, Bluetooth, Sat-Nav and 6CD changer
- Parking sensors at the rear
- Automatic air-conditioning with heated seats
- Keyless entry and start, electric windows and powered door mirrors
- All of the internal trim and switchgear appears to be in fine fettle, with no damage or notable wear we could see
- The vendor tells us that everything works just as it should
- Rear luggage compartment looks to be in very good condition, complete with integrated cargo net and first aid kit
The Exterior
- Connaught Green paintwork with Pepper White contrast roof and bonnet stripes – overall in excellent condition, with just a handful of minor marks to the roof
- Diamond Clear paint protection
- Carbon fibre trim and detailing to the bonnet intake, mirrors and rear bumper
- Black 17” ‘Challenge’ alloy wheels with matching Dunlop tyres, all presented very well with no kerbing or scuffing observed
- Bi-Xenon headlights with black reflectors
- Front mounted genuine MINI additional driving lights
- The underside presents in very good order, looking clean and straight with no damage or corrosion we could see
The Mechanics
- Twin-scroll turbo 1.6-litre, 4-cylinder engine developing 208bhp
- The engine bay looks to be very tidy, with no signs of leaks or overheating
- 6-speed manual transmission
- Switchable ‘Sport’ mode
- We’re assured by the vendor that the car drives very well, with no mechanical issues they are aware of
Summary
Here in the UK, we love a hot hatch. And it’s easy to see why – with thousands of miles of sweeping A-roads, twisting B-roads and snarled up city centres, they’re the perfect way to get around and still enjoy the thrill of driving.
The R56 MINI has always been a capable and fine-handling vehicle, but as presented here in this special edition, it’s something truly exceptional. This car comes with incredibly low miles, just one owner from new, and the kind of spec list you only get on very rare limited edition cars. As one of just 500 ever built, it’s a very rare machine, in lovely condition. It would happily grace any driveway or collection you care to mention.
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.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
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