Mini Cooper 1.3i

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The original Mini Cooper was launched in 1961 with a tuned 997cc engine that produced 55bhp. A real giant-slayer, its extraordinary agility meant it could easily humble much more powerful cars both on road and track, although it was perhaps most famous for winning the gruelling Monte Carlo Rally in 1964, 1965 and 1967 (it won the 1966 rally as well, but was disqualified by the French judges on totally spurious grounds).

The Mini had gone into something of a decline by the 1980s and new owners Rover resorted to a bewildering array of special editions to try and keep the sales figures above water. However, the re-launch of the Mini Cooper in 1990 brought about a genuine revival of interest in the brand, particularly in Japan.

The new Cooper had a 63bhp 1275cc carburettor engine and an even better fuel-injected version was introduced in 1991. When BMW took control over the Rover Group in 1994, the Cooper stayed in production and build quality went up along with more luxurious interiors trimmed in leather and equipped with a driver airbag. The last Mini Cooper was built in October 2000.

This 1994 Cooper 1.3i has been the vendor’s ‘labour of love’ for the last two years. He has undertaken a comprehensive restoration programme which includes all major aspects of the car.

Essentially a two-owner car, which has covered 63,000 miles from new, it was stripped down and fitted with new wings, A-panels and a lower valence. The car was then professionally resprayed both inside and out before being fitted with a new wiring loom.

It was built-up with new sound-proofing, underlay and fresh carpets, the original ½-leather seats being sent away to be refurbished ensuring that the interior looks factory-fresh.

Underneath all new brakes, hoses and pipes were added along with a new exhaust while up top, all of the lights were replaced along with window strips, door and window seals and exterior badging. The wheels were sent away for professional reconditioning and fitted with new tyres.

A brand new, period stereo was sourced and the car given a thorough waxoiling to protect against corrosion,the vendor describing the car as immaculate inside and out. He adds that he has not seen a better example, his car having been restored using as many genuine Rover parts as possible.

MOTd until September 2015, it is most unusual to find a 20 year old Cooper in such fine fettle.