Austin Mini Cooper S Mk1 1275cc

THIS CAr

• A simply delightful 1966 Austin Mini Cooper S Mk1 (1275cc)
• UK home market example, delivered new to its first owner via Carlaw Limited, Glasgow.
• Original factory specification:
  • Tweed Grey with Old English White Roof
  • Dark Grey / Dove Grey Interior
  • Fresh Air Heater
  • Twin Fuel Tanks
  • Oil Cooler
  • 4.5 inch wide Wheel Rims
• While we don’t know much about the car’s early life (other than that it spent most of its time in Scotland), the paper trail picks up in the late 90s when the then owner decided to commission a full restoration of the car.
• There are many invoices and photographs on file documenting this work, with every element of the car being fully stripped back and repaired.
• The body was blasted, welded, primed and re-painted in the gorgeous Red (w. Old English White Roof) colour scheme it wears today.
• The interior was completely retrimmed in Red/Grey vinyl upholstery with subtle gold detailing, which works wonderfully with the car’s exterior.
• The 1275cc matching numbers engine was fully rebuilt by renowned engine builder, Ivor Searle, and despite being completed some 25 years ago, the car has done a mere 1,500 miles since.
• The last 25 years have been quiet for this lovely Mini, being used sparingly by a few fastidious owners – always dry stored.

WHAT WE THINK

• We’ve not stopped smiling since this Mini arrived with us in Bicester, and that was even after the 200 mile journey getting it here.
• The single pipe Peco exhaust system delivers a wonderful 4-cylinder burble, and while it would be a stretch to describe this car as ‘fast’ by today’s standards, 76bhp and 650kg is a fantastic recipe for fun.
• These early Mk1 Coopers really do capture the 60s spirit, especially with a rack of rally spotlights for good measure, and the genius of Issigonis’ design means that it’s also genuinely quite practical.
• There’s enough room in the boot to carry a full set of spare powder coated wheel rims (which are included as part of the sale), and there is plenty of space inside for 2 people to fit comfortably with weekend baggage.