1997 Rover Mini Cooper 1.3
Highlights
- Cleverly backdated to desirable ‘60s-style specifications
- 1960s private registration ‘HSR 91D’ applied
- Original 1,275 cc A Series upgraded with a Stage 1 cylinder head, stainless steel exhaust, brake lines and fuel lines, a modern ECU controlled fuel injection
- Full bare metal respray followed by Dinitrol corrosion protection
The Appeal
The art of “backdating” Minis is increasingly popular in recent years, and it’s easy to see why.
With early examples of Issigonis’s ingenious creation commanding high prices, it makes sense to give later Minis, (which are not so different in any case), the same look. A further advantage is that some notable advancements were made during the later years of Mini production, so a backdated ‘90s Mini gives you the best of both worlds.
We’re pleased to offer one such Mini which has been backdated to a very high standard. This 1998 1,275 cc Rover Mini Cooper looks every bit like its ‘60s ancestors - the likes of which shot to fame in the hands of Paddy Hopkirk on the gruelling Monte Carlo Rally. Besides the fetching retro-inspired aesthetics, this Mini has been further upgraded with a Stage 1 cylinder head, a stainless steel exhaust system and a whole host of other enhancements to make it one of the best driving Minis around. Inside, there’s an all-new leather interior, additional instruments and a modern Bluetooth stereo.
In short, this is a well-thought-out build that’s sure to appeal to those who want to make the most from their classic cars.
The History and Paperwork
- Five former registered keepers
- UK-supplied right-hand drive example first registered 30/05/1997
- 73,751 miles indicated
- Five-former registered keepers
- Age-appropriate private plate fitted
- To be offered with an MOT test carried out
The Condition
- The Mini presents very well throughout, with straight bodywork, smart paint and a well-appointed, retrimmed interior
- The vendor states that the shell has undergone a full bare metal respray followed by Dinitrol corrosion protection
- Much of the front end was replaced during the restoration with Heritage high-quality parts, as was the windscreen surround, rear lower wings, door support panels with extra strengthening
- All four inner wheel arches strengthened along with the rear subframe support panels
- ‘60s-inspired two-tone colour scheme: Almond Green with Old English White roof
- Chrome bumpers with over-riders
- Subtle wheel arch extensions in black
- Early-type rear lights
- Auxiliary reversing lamp
- Leather bonnet straps
- Minilite-style 10” alloy wheels
- Bullet-type wing mirrors with chrome finish
- Period ‘Morris Cooper S badging’
- Retrimmed in green leather to a good standard
- Retains its original dashboard layout, with a few additional gauges and a DIN Bluetooth stereo
- The upholstery, headlining and carpets present well with no notable wear or deterioration to report
- We understand the various cabin electrics to be in good working order
The Mechanics
- Original 1,275 cc A Series l4 retained
- Four-speed manual gearbox
- Disc brakes (front), finned drum brakes (rear)
- Stage 1 cylinder head upgrade
- 1-5-1 roller rockers
- Three-branch manifold
- Modern ECU-controlled fuel injection system
- Morris-badged rocker cover
- Auxiliary electric fan fitted
- Adjustable rear camber
- Re-bushed front suspension
- Polished stainless steel RC40 exhaust system
- Stainless steel brake lines and fuel lines
- The vendor reports that the Mini drives brilliantly, benefitting substantially from the aforementioned mechanical enhancements
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 deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
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or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. If requested, we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected]
Vehicle specification
- Year 1998
- Make Rover
- Model Mini
- Colour Green
- Odometer 73,751 Miles
- Engine size 1275
Listing Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town Bournemouth
- Location Dorset
- Country United Kingdom
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