Mini Cooper Mk2

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When Alec Issigonis launched his new Mini in 1959 he had no idea of the revolution he had just unleashed. A deeply practical man, he just saw it as a cheap car for the masses that should sell in decent numbers.

Fortunately for us, race car builder John Cooper had rather more imagination and quickly spotted the potential of the brilliant little car with the go-kart handling. After some arm-twisting, he finally persuaded Issigonis to sanction the development of a competition version, the now immortal Mini Cooper.

A real giant-slayer, the Cooper went on to become one of the most successful competition cars of all time, literally running rings round far bigger and more potent opponents by dint of its incredible handling. When Ferrari designer Aurelio Lampredi first got his hands on a Mini, he was so stunned by its performance that he announced it was the car of the future, adding: “If it wasn’t so ugly I’d shoot myself.”

The Mini Cooper made its debut in 1961 with a 997cc long stroke engine. This was supplanted in 1964 with the 998cc unit. The standard output of 34bhp increased to 55bhp, and the twin SUs and close ratio gearbox made for a very successful formula. A shorter stroke higher power 'S' version was added, primarily for circuit racing.

A major revamp occurred in 1967 with the introduction of the MkII. This had a larger rear window and a different grille amongst a raft of other changes, the 998cc engine producing 55bhp and giving the car a top speed of 90mph. Some 16,000 MkII Coopers were sold before production came to an end in 1969 and survivors are now increasingly prized by collectors.

This 1968 example has been in the current ownership for 15 years. A former development engineer, the vendor painstakingly restored this car in 2000 to keep himself amused when he took retirement. Every nut and bolt has been repaired or replaced as necessary, including a fully rebuilt engine and gearbox, new Hydrolastic system, new brakes, suspension etc, the vendor carrying out all of the mechanical work himself.

The Tartan Red body and black roof were professionally repainted and the seats professionally retrimmed in black leather. As you can see in the pictures, the car is still in excellent condition throughout and has covered only 5,500 miles since it was completed. Supplied with many bills and photographs to document the rebuild, it is said to drive beautifully with an MOT until November 2015.

Although values of the MkII Cooper have traditionally lagged some way behind those of the MkI, the gap has been closing in recent times and shows no signs of abating. So if you have ever fancied one of these cute little giant slayers, it might be a smart move to stick your hand up today rather than kick yourself for your hesitancy tomorrow. And it is nearly Christmas, don’t forget…

CATALOGUE AMENDMENT: Upon arrival, the vendor has advised us that he believes the engine could do with a tune-up. He has also brought to our attention that the hydrolastic suspension has been refurbished rather than replaced.