1971 Austin Mini Cooper S 1275cc Mk III (Modified)

The Mini, manufactured from 1959 until 2000, is synonymous with the 1960s. Produced at Longbridge and Cowley, and designed by Sir Alec Issigonis for BMC, this small economic motorcar has appealed to all manner of motorists and their enthusiasm lives on some 55 years later. You are sure to find a local Mini Owners Club not far from your home.

As is often the case with many Mini Coopers, this example has been the subject of many modifications during the last fifteen years or so. In the current ownership since 2002, the previous enthusiast custodian rebuilt CHW 198J with an original Cooper S bodyshell (this was apparently due to corrosion problems). We understand that during the rebuild, the interior was treated to new carpets and headlining; the new interior trim and reclining seats were of the Mini Cooper ‘Black Lightning’ design. Other improvements included auxiliary high beam lamps, an alloy steering wheel and a stainless steel exhaust system. The vehicle is also fitted with ‘Sundym’ glass and twin petrol tanks, together with Ultralite alloy wheels and four recent new Yokohama 165/60 R12 tyres. It has been converted to run on unleaded petrol.

From October 2002 until September 2004, specialist mechanical repairs were carried out to the Mini; work included a change of engine and gearbox (which were dismantled, checked and overhauled as required), a brake and clutch overhaul, and the fitting of rebuilt 1½” SU carburettors. Work was also carried out on the heater unit and a new radiator fitted; the Hydrolastic suspension units were removed and the suspension was converted to ‘dry’ with adjustable rear shock absorbers. Ride heights and weight distribution were also checked and adjusted, and new drive shafts, brake servo, discs and a master cylinder were installed. This extensive specialist work, detailed in invoices supplied with the motor car, cost £19,354. Also included in the history file is the MOT test certificate and the V5C registration certificate.

Having had a trip out in CHW 198J, your writer can confirm that the motor car is indecently fast and an exciting prospect for a Mini fanatic.

Auction Date: 9 July 2015