Lot details
Registration No: AYA 41A
Chassis No: CA257381394
Mot Expiry: June 2009

The Mini's giant-killing abilities in competition are legend. Three Monte Carlo Rally wins in the '60s cemented the car's reputation, and Minis are just as popular now as they ever were. A Mini on a historic stage rally remains an evocative sight and sound, as the screaming A-series scrabbles the tiny front wheels with that distinctive Mini transfer gear whine.
Presented as a Mk1 Austin Cooper S, this 1963 Mini has been a rally car for most of its life and was last refurbished by ex-Downton engineer Steve Harris in 1999 to replicate the works car known as Sophie. Complying with MSA and Historic Rally Car Register regulations, it was a major award winner in the 2002 and 2003 HRCR road series.
The 1293cc engine has a Downton big valve head capable of running on unleaded fuel, EN40B crank, twin SUs, fuel regulator, lightened and shot peened flywheel, while competition clutch, straight-cut gears and 'unbreakable' driveshafts, plus oil cooler and sumpguard are fitted. Minilite type alloys are shod with Yokohama 008s and twin Cibie Oscars light up the night.
The high spec includes electrically heated screen, roll cage, strengthened floor and mounts for bucket seats, full harnesses, extinguisher, brake-bias control, flexilight, magnifier, electric twin trip and rally clock, plus fuel lines, brake pipes and battery cable run inside. It has been developed and maintained by former BTRDA champ Kieron Patterson in Burton Upon Trent.
This is an honest, working rally car with all the right bits, available for a fraction of the build costs. As the owner puts it, describing the engine, mechanicals and electrics as "good" and the body and paint as "fair": "Not immaculate but very sound". It's certainly plenty to have fun with, and a serious historic rally contender.