Lot details
Registration No: J1 HBW
Chassis No: SAXXNWBMBBD021925
Mot Expiry: June 2012

Numerous independent companies created convertible versions of the ubiquitous Mini during its forty-one year reign. However, it was following the revival of interest in the model during the late 1980s that Rover itself was encouraged to offer such a variant though, rather than committing to immediate in-house production, the Longbridge concern decided to test the market by commissioning 75 examples from its German dealer Lamm Autohaus. Launched in June 1991, the newcomer was based on the Mini Mayfair and, even though the initial order was extended to 100, the batch was sold out within a month. Rover had the answer it needed and proceeded to create its own very similar Mini Cabriolet, of which almost 300 were eventually sold. Though finished in the same distinctive Nightfire Metallic Red as Rover's 100 Lamm Cabriolets, the sale car differs in that it was one of 75 subsequently built to order and based on the sportier Mini Cooper. It features a black leather interior and four-speed manual gearbox. The first keeper, Mr Harvey Wolfinger, purchased it for his wife from Jack Barclay's Mayfair showroom. The couple retained 'J1 HBW' for six years, during which time it was maintained by Riviera Motors and was a frequent visitor to Monaco. In 1997 it was purchased by Charles Holland of Farringdon for his wife before being sold on to their friend Pippa Dobson in 2006 - sparingly used by both ladies, it is understood to have covered just 730 miles over the years concerned. The last keeper, Julian Taylor, acquired the Mini in January last year. Even now, the total mileage is understood to be just 8,000.

Recently lightly recommisioned by County Classics of Gloucester using new parts as required, this exceedingly rare and stunningly presented Mini is considered by the vendor to be in "superb" condition with regard to its engine, gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, bodywork and paintwork and is being sold complete with MOT into June.

PLEASE NOTE: The vendor has informed us that this vehicle was driven to the sale, the mileage now showing is 8,423, and that the original wheels and tyres could be forwarded to the purchaser if required.