Lot 258 - 1971 Morris Mini Cooper S
| Lot Number | 258 |
| Registration | WVH 777J |
| Chassis Number | XAD-1/312155-A |
| Engine Number | TBC |
| Odometer reading | 29,535 miles |
| Result | Sold - £17,920 |
The history of this revolutionary motorcar is well known, its impact socially and culturally is well documented and is remembered with great fondness by many people. The Mini Cooper S earned acclaim with Monte Carlo Rally victories in 1964, 1965 and 1967. Minis were initially placed first, second and third in the 1966 rally as well but were disqualified after a controversial decision by the French judges. Huge demand was also generated and, quite rightly, continues today.
We are pleased to offer an original and rather lovely Mk. III example of the Mini Cooper S; one of only 792 manufactured for the home market! Our vendor, an ex-BMC mechanic, acquired the Cooper in a state that necessitated a complete restoration and so began a complete nut and bolt rebuild that was finally completed in 2013. The original shell was found to be beyond repair but importantly, an original new Leyland Mk. III shell (not a Heritage shell) was sourced and the car built around it. A decision was made to complete the car in Mk. II colours and some badging with the blue vinyl interior being retained; the car now stands resplendent in its tartan red coachwork with black roof. Unfortunately, upon purchase, the original engine had been lost but as a stroke of luck a genuine 1275cc, Cooper S unit was found and fully rebuilt with period modifications that include being fully balanced, a flowed and ported cylinder head conversion to run on unleaded fuel, fitted with a medium performance 'road use' camshaft, twin 1.5" SU carburettors and stage two manifolds and exhaust system. The extent of the restoration cannot be underestimated; the suspension has been converted to the more reliable rubber suspension cones replacing the notoriously unreliable and difficult to set up Hydrolastic set-up, the sub-frames have been powder coated, the undersides protected and painted body colour and it has been fitted with vented Cooper S reverse wheel rims, period Dunlop tyres and Group Two wheel arches. These are amongst the many details that have been executed to make this one of the finest Coopers in the market.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.