Looking for a racing-spec classic Mini Cooper? Oh boy, do we have the car for you…
We all know the story of the original Mini. Introduced in 1959 and advertised by the British Motor Corporation (BMC) as the UK’s people’s car, the world grew to love the little symbol of freedom as it rapidly shot to fame as a film star, the wheels of choice for style gurus and nestled into our history as the firm choice to summarise the last century in four-wheel-form.
However, while we can all agree the Mini is iconic; the most famous variant is the legendary Cooper. The design of the little Mini, with front wheel drive, transverse engine and suspension layout, not only accommodated maximum interior space but also allowed for exceptional handling from such a small package.
John Cooper, owner of Cooper Cars and Formula One designer, clocked onto the potential that the Mini held as a rally and race car and, after much urging, persuaded BMC to build a performance version. In 1961, the Austin and Morris ‘Mini Coopers’ were born.
Employing the use of an increased capacity 997cc race tuned engine with close ratio gearbox and front disc brakes, the Mini Cooper was an immediate success - not just with the racing fraternity, but with the public too; capturing their imagination like no other car of the time.
If that wasn’t enough, the Cooper ‘S-Type’ arrived in early 1963 with a further developed 1071cc engine and larger servo assisted disc brakes. An instant sensation, the Cooper-S has maintained its position as the most sought-after Mini ever. Now a firm favourite in historical racing circles, finding a good one for less than a small fortune is tough going. However, you ultimately get what you pay for - and if you purchase this example then you will own something rather special, indeed.
This particular example is an original Morris Mini Cooper-S, first registered for the road in April 1964 to a Mr Searby from Grimsby, initially in the colour scheme you can see it in today, alongside the original registration number.
The Mini has only changed hands twice since, in 1978 and again in 1992. The latest owner held the view of converting it into a race car and, since completion in 1993, has participated successfully in various events including the Deutsche Historische Tourenwagen, U2TC, Masters and the Goodwood Revival in 1999, 2000, 2009 and 2015 - where it was ultimately recorded as the fastest Mini; quite an achievement.
The car has been lovingly maintained with no expense spared, running with a fully rebuilt Swiftune race engine, to the latest works specification.
The car comes with the original green card logbook, Heritage Certificate, race preparation invoices and FIA Passport issued in July 2015.
Also included in the sale are Magnesium Minilite wheels, engine spares and mechanical spare-parts, alongside a recently serviced Brian James 4-wheel trailer.
A very rare opportunity to acquire a competitive and genuine Mini Cooper S - ready to race, with a trailer included.
Get a look here with CCFS.