1998 Rover Mini 'Paul Smith'

Lot details
Registration No: S509KJR
Chassis No: SAXXNWAZEWD160894
Mot Expiry: Oct 2010

Five million Minis were produced between the revolutionary little car's launch in 1959 and the end of production in 2000 - but individuality has never been a problem as there's never been any lack of choice between different models produced over the years. The Paul Smith was one of the most distinctive of a bewildering array of limited-edition Minis produced ever since this timeless classic's 25th birthday - and it was the first edition to cost more than £10,000, retailing at £225 more.

Sharing the basic specification with the revived Mini Cooper, it featured the 64bhp 1275cc fuel-injected engine, Minilite-type alloy wheels, full leather seats and that distinctive purple/blue hue chosen by the famous Bristol-owning clothes designer, colour-coded to include the wheelarch extensions and mirrors. With the extra torque from the twin-point fuel-injected engine, it was one of the few Minis variants to be fitted with the tall 2.76:1 final drive ratio, making it one of the most refined and relaxed Minis to drive. Just 1800 were built, of which only 300 were earmarked for the home market, the rest going to Japan although several have since been repatriated.

This particular example has "always been garaged overnight" says the vendor who also describes it as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, gearbox, electrical equipment, bodywork, paintwork and interior trim (though, he notes there are "a few small marks on the driver's seat"). `S509 KJR' reportedly has "a full service history with 11 garage stamps in the service record", and is fitted with an engine immobiliser. Offered for sale with a V5C registration document, and MOT certificate current until October 2010.