Lot 168 - 1965 Morris Mini Cooper S (970cc)
| Lot Number | 168 |
| Registration | CBK 99C |
| Chassis Number | KA254550919 |
| Engine Number | 9F-5A-X/29883 |
| Odometer reading | 29,281 miles |
| Result | Sold - £56,000 |
Designed by Alex Issigonis in 1959, a new concept in car design was born. With a monocoque shell, transversely mounted engine and front wheel drive, the new 'Mini', as it was commonly known, soon became popular across a broad spectrum of the population. The potential for competition use was soon seen by John Cooper and although Alex Issigonis was less keen, BMC were finally persuaded by John Cooper and the two worked together in culminating the birth of the Austin Mini Cooper and the Morris Mini Cooper in 1961. Victories in the 1964, 1965 and 1967 Monte Carlo Rallies set the Mini on the road to fame but probably the greatest publicity was gained from their (somewhat unfair) disqualification for lighting irregularities in the 1966 event after coming in 1st, 2nd and 3rd. A more powerful Mini Cooper, dubbed the 'S', was developed in tandem and released in 1963. Featuring a 1071cc engine and larger servo-assisted disc brakes, 4,030 Cooper S cars were produced and sold until the model was updated in August 1964. Cooper also produced two S models specifically for circuit racing in the under 1,000 cc and under 1,300 cc classes respectively, rated at 970cc and a 1,275cc. The smaller-engine model was not well received, and only 963 had been built when the model was discontinued in 1965. The 1,275 cc Cooper S models continued in production until 1971.
This Morris Mini Cooper S has been restored by the vendor to a superb standard. Leaving no stone unturned, the engine was removed and stripped down along with the gearbox while the bodywork was being attended to. In addition to this the suspension, brakes and steering were all rebuilt or replaced as necessary. The quality of paintwork is excellent and clearly many hours were spent on preparing the bodywork correctly by the exceedingly fastidious vendor. The mileage of 29,281 appears genuine although not warranted and the interior of this delightful Mini is completely original apart from the steering wheel. Without doubt Morris Mini Coopers are exceedingly rare, as is a restoration project of this quality. With an engine that runs like a sewing machine and a gearbox that is almost perfect in operation this Cooper S has performance and styling in abundance. Supplied with a V5C registration document and a current MoT test certificate, this Mini has the original 970cc engine AEG 151 block and 12G 190 gearbox, one of the best Mini Coopers S's we have seen.
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.