1970 Morris Mini Cooper S
Highlights
- One of 1,572 original Morris Mini Cooper S MK3s built, complete with twin tanks
- Engine and gearbox reconditioned less than 1,500 miles ago
- Fitted with new starter motor, carpets, seats, wheels, and tyres
- New Bilstein shock absorbers fitted
The Appeal
You already know the Mini. If you don't know the iconic little British classic, you're probably on the wrong website. These diminutive marvels are one of the most legendary classics out there, but back in their heyday, there was one Mini that sat above them all - the Cooper S.
John Cooper was the master of making a lot out of a little, and when he saw the short-wheelbased, agile city car, he knew it would be the perfect rally driver. He campaigned Issigonis who was a big rally fan himself, and while the Mini's designer was reluctant to place his austerity motor into a performance field, he eventually agreed.
The result was one of the most successful rally cars in history - and the Cooper S is now, undeniably, the classic Mini to have. Loaded with the highest specs that were possible back in the 60s, the characterful Mini Cooper S is still an incredibly spirited, endlessly entertaining drive, and rare to boot - with only 1,572 of the much-lauded MK3 (often purported as the best handling examples) ever built.
This 1970 example has been stored in a dry, warm garage for the past five years, and is still a shining example of its breed. Recently reconditioned, and ready to hit the road, this incredible classic has got a bright future ahead of it - and you've got an opportunity to be part of it.
History and Paperwork
- Built in 1970
- One of only 1,572 built
- Original 1275cc engine, rebuilt to 1293cc by Slark Brothers
- MOT exempt, last tested in 2018
- The DVLA records 9 previous keepers
- In current ownership since 2019
- Stored in a warm garage under a cover while in current ownership
- Accompanied by what we're informed is an extensive history file
- Currently indicates 85,772 miles on a five-figure odometer
The Condition
- Bodywork looks in very good order
- Original Island Blue livery
- Highly original with British Leyland badging
- Fitted with new wheels and tyres
A look around the Mini is always going to be engaging - but the Mini Cooper S is so special because it's, on the outside, such a charming little car. Despite offering robust rally-ready performance, the car's lines are uninterrupted, mid-century British milieu that their finest.
This fabulous example comes to us in a period-accurate Island Blue, still shining nicely. It's been fully restored in the past, and to our eyes the original body shell is still in fine fettle. The brightwork is still casting a lovely contrast, and the glasswork and lenses are all in fine condition - with black arches and alloys perfectly matched up.
The underside is lovely and solid, with no significant areas of corrosion we can discern.
- Retrimmed with new carpets, and front seats
- Mountney steering wheel
- Complete with roll cage
The cabin of this Mini has seen a new lease of life with its new velour bucket seats, gear gaiter and carpets - while the rear black vinyl is original, and aspects such as the Mountney steering wheel and rev counter are period performance additions. It's a very evocative, clean, and nicely kept space - with just the right level of aged patina to carry the car's distinguished years.
The car's headlining and door cards are all very clean and well-presented, and all of the instruments are clear and legible. It's a cabin that's perfectly usable, comfortable and sympathetically upgraded, without losing an ounce of its character.
The Mechanics
- Original 1275cc A-Series four-cylinder engine, rebuilt to 1293cc by Slark Brothers
- EN40B crankshaft
- Lightweight fly wheel
- Forged pistons
- Modified big valve race head, set to run on unleaded fuel
- Fed with uprated twin SU 1.5" carbs with pancake air filters
- Competition exhaust manifold and exhaust
- Has only covered 50 miles since the last oil change and has new air filters
- Manual transmission with 4 gears
- The gearbox was fitted new when the engine was reconditioned with close ratio and has straight cut gears and straight cut drop gears which improves the bhp to the wheels and makes an incredible sound
- Engine and gearbox were completely reconditioned less than 1,500 miles ago
- Fitted with new Bilstein shock absorbers
Popping open the bonnet, you'll see the much-loved A-Series powerplant - but not quite as you'd know it. The engine has been rebuilt to a rather impressive set of specs, all of which we expect John Cooper would be very approving of. Fitted with a big-valve race head, with twin SU carbs and a comprehensive, uprated rebuild to 1293cc by Slark Bros, the engine is up 25hp over a standard Cooper S. This little car is no doubt set to be a very impressive performer.
Whether you're envisioning its future on the track or as a particularly charismatic daily, this Mini Cooper S has just about everything going for it, and we're expecting its unique specification and remarkable condition to bring plenty of interest.
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand..
Vehicle specification
- Year 1970
- Make Morris
- Model Mini
- Colour Blue
- Odometer 85,772 Miles
- Engine size 1293
Listing Details
- Seller type Private
- Town Newtown
- Location Wales
- Country United Kingdom
The Gallery
Make an offer
This seller is open to offers. Enter the amount you'd like to pay and if your offer is accepted, a member of the team will be in touch.
Under offer
This seller has accepted an offer.
Click the star to watch the listing and keep an eye on it in the favourites section of your account, or search for something similar.