1966 Austin Mini Cooper S Mk I 1275cc

First introduced in 1959, the Mini is the most famous small car in the world. The inventor, Sir Alec Issigonis, and friend, John Cooper, could both see the potential of the car in competition and their joint vision lead to the Morris Mini Cooper first appearing in 1961. Their development and evolution eventually led to the Austin Mini Cooper S appearing in 1963, and they went on to claim world-wide success in both rallying and racing with the versatile and nimble Mini. The Cooper S's iconic appeal as a sportier version of the Mini was specifically underlined by its success at the Monte Carlo Rally in 1964, 1965 and 1967, as well as its appearance in the 1967 British film The Italian Job, in which Minis and Mini Coopers play a key role in a bank heist.

This left-hand drive Austin Mini Cooper S 1275cc left the factory on the 12th July 1966 on its way to Honolulu, Hawaii. It returned to Chandler, Arizona on mainland USA only a few years ago. It was repatriated to the UK in early 2014, where it was treated to a complete restoration and rebuild from the ground up. Fortunately, having come from a hot and dry climate, the bodywork was virtually “rust free” according to the current owner.

The car has a matching numbers engine and comes complete with a Heritage Certificate. The car still has Hydrolastic Suspension and all pipe and bump stops have been replaced. The original twin tanks have been retained. The shell was completely stripped and media blasted with the only body parts replaced being the front wings and front panel - only because of minor dings and dents.

This Mini has been rebuilt using as many of the original parts as possible with new parts sourced where strictly necessary i.e new rubbers etc. The engine and gearbox were both rebuilt with new valves, guides and seats, piston rings, honed block, all bearings throughout the engine, all gaskets replaced and a new electronic ignition system fitted. The carbs have been overhauled & rebuilt along with the close ratio gearbox and clutch.

Finished in its original colour of Island Blue with Old English white roof, the interior has been re-trimmed with a complete “Newton Commercial” interior, including new roof lining and looks just like it left the works factory almost 50 years ago. A CD will be supplied with the car showing it in its various restoration phases. The car has completed only 25 miles since its rebuild (reading 83,400 miles) and comes complete with a V5C certificate and 12 months MoT.