The original Mini was conceived in response to the 1957 Suez oil crisis. The British Motor Corporation (BMC) tasked Alec Issigonis with creating a small, fuel-efficient vehicle. Leonard Lord, President of BMC, was also keen to see that a safer alternative to the bubble cars that were popular in Germany would be built and sold in Britain. With the insistence that the design, be no more than 10ft long and would devote an unprecedented 80% of its footprint to passenger and luggage space, Isogonic took his tablecloth sketch to production reality in under two years. Launched in 1959, the Mini was a radical design of its time. The transversely mounted engine with its gearbox-in-sump arrangement drove the front wheels, this ground-breaking technology allowed room to house four adults.

The final version of the Mini was built between 1996 to 2000 and incorporated, twin point fuel injection with front-mounted radiator. A full-width dashboard replaced the original shelf, an internal bonnet release and driver’s airbag were added. Production ended in October 2000 signalling the end of the original Mini after 41 years.

The Rover Mini 40 Anniversary Edition (No 98 of 250 UK examples) offered here at Autostorico is a 1999 “V Plate.” Finished in Island Blue with Dark Blue leather interior trim. This stunning example 4 owner example has covered a mere 67,513 miles. Purchased by its current owner in 2021 the car has undergone a comprehensive restoration including replacing the front wings, scuttle panel and A posts with heritage panels prior to a repainting in its original colour. Attention then passed to the mechanicals with a replacement ECU, plugs, HT leads and a full service. Specification highlights include; Alloy wheels, Front driving lights, Turned aluminium dashboard, CD player, Toolkit and Original commemorative briefcase including model and certificate.

Supplied with a history file including a current V5 registration document, numerous invoices and the car will be issued with a new MOT upon purchase.

A perfect opportunity to own such an iconic British classic that will certainly appreciate over time.

Viewing strictly by appointment only.