To many, its designer Alec Issigonis included, the notion that the Mini might have a future as anything other than basic transport was an anathema, and the idea of a high-performance version was laughable. One man though, saw it quite differently. Racing car manufacturer John Cooper already knew quite a bit about tuning BMC's A-Series engine, he was running the company's Formula Junior effort at the time, and a test drive in a prototype Mini convinced him of the car's competition potential. The result, launched in September 1961, was the Mini Cooper, a car that offered a size/price/performance package that was nothing short of miraculous. The Mini Cooper soon established its credentials as a rally and race winner, and the stage was set for even faster versions.

Originally registered on 17th February 1964, this Mini Cooper S is a rare 1071cc model. It has been totally nut and bolt restored by the very knowledgeable and capable vendor. The body was completely stripped and put on a rotisserie. Any corrosion was cut-out and refabricated, with new panels fitted where necessary. Both the front and rear subframes have been fully refurbished. To be expected of such an extensive rebuild the engine has been rebuilt, this was carried out by Brett Sims Racing. All the suspension has been rebuilt as has the braking system. The body was painted in Almond Green with a white roof and the interior has also been refurbished, although the vendor was careful to retain as much of the original material as possible. This Mini also has an original William Dulles dashboard which is extremely rare. The detailed list of the extensive work is too comprehensive to list here. It is important to note the car has done virtually no miles since the rebuild. It is supplied with a V5 registration document and an MoT test certificate valid until 28th August 2026, a Heritage Certificate and an extensive amount of paperwork. This authentic Morris Mini Cooper S would grace any collection but at the same time, can be driven on the roads to Club/Concours events where it would quite possibly collect a trophy! Consigned by Stewart Banks

Lot details
Year: 1964
Make: Morris
Model: Mini Cooper S (Mk. I) 1071cc
Registration: 47 HLK
Chassis No: K-A2S4-488469
Odometer: 71,003

* Rare 1071cc model
* Restored to a very high standard
* Includes the number plate of 47 HLK