Lot details
Registration No: X606TCX
Chassis No: SAXXNSAZEYD185437
Mot Expiry: Feb 2010

As the Rover Group prepared for the cessation of Mini production at Longbridge, many knew it would be the end of an era. The company had been delivering limited editions since the 1980s, and the high-profile Cooper model since 1990, yet the real rarity from the final year of production would be the regular Mini Seven. Re-badged with a retro name that harked back to the 1959 launch of the Austin Se7en, it featured much the same performance and equipment as the upmarket model, but without the cartoon-like wheels and fussier trim. So whilst the engine was the trusty A+ 1275cc inline four with fuel injection, front mounted radiator and electric fan, the wheels were 12-inch Pepperpot alloys, making its stance and handling more akin to the 1959 original. Inside, leather and cloth trim added period ambience, yet modern conveniences such as a driver's airbag, side impact bars in the doors and an alarm-immobiliser contributed to the - for a Mini - modern feel, yet with the added cache of being a truly rare variant, sold without the hype of the Cooper. They were able to run on unleaded petrol too.

An ultra low mileage of only 8645 recorded miles ensures that this two-lady owner example appears box-fresh and original. It is said to look "as new", and be in "very good" condition with regard to coachwork, paintwork, engine, four-speed transmission, electrical equipment (which includes a CD radio player) and interior trim. The tax disc expires at the end of February 2010, and features an added benefit of falling into the DVLA's reduced rate `not over 1549cc if manufactured before 1 March 2001' of £125 per year, as it was first registered on 18th September 2000. The MOT runs until February 2010. A well-preserved and truly rare non-limited-edition model, this Seven should reward the buyer with a genuinely unusual model to present at Mini car club (and there are over 30 regional Mini clubs in the UK and many more worldwide) gatherings, concours events and shows. And the notorious frugality of a Mini means it's very real compact car economy still stacks up when the fuel at the pumps is over 110p per litre.