Lot 181 1966 Austin Mini Cooper S Mk. I (1275cc)

To many, including its designer Alec Issigonis, the idea that the Mini might be used as anything other than basic transport was an anathema, and the idea of a high-performance version was laughable. John Cooper saw it quite differently and 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 resulting 'Cooper', launched in September 1961, 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. A more powerful Mini Cooper, dubbed the 'S', was developed in tandem and released in 1963, of which this is one.

Delivered new to sunny Florida in 1966, this beautiful example is finished in Island Blue with an Old English white roof. Repatriated into the United Kingdom in 2017, it was then subject to a no-expense-spared, nut and bolt rebuild over a two-year period. Among the work completed, the car was converted to right hand drive. Upon completion of the work, the odometer was zero' d, and after 44 miles of running in, the odometer unfortunately stopped working. This will need to be addressed by the new owner, but only a small mileage has been covered since. The result of this restoration speaks for itself; the car presents in terrific condition and is supplied with a huge file of expenditure. The previous owner commissioned a few subtle upgrades as well: spotlights, Minilight wheels, and period wooden steering wheel. Offered with a Heritage Certificate, this stunning example is ready for a new adventure, or to form part of a collection - and every collection of course needs a classic Mini. Consigned by Charlie McCreery