1970 Morris Mini Cooper S

This vehicle was lovingly and painstakingly restored in the mid 80's by its long-term owner, a skilled motorcar restorer, using a correct 1970 Cooper S body shell which was sand-blasted to bare metal. Wood and Picket wheel arches were fitted and then acid etch primed before the car was professionally painted in Blue Cellulose with Old English White roof. All panels were rust-proofed with Waxoyl. Both front and rear sub frames replaced with new, and seam welded along the joints to stop corrosion and then stove enamelled in black. The sub frames were built up using all new suspension parts with adjustable Hi-Lo's fitted.

The 1275cc engine is the later type Metro engine totally reconditioned and bored to maximum with new pistons and bearings. The cylinder head is the original Cooper S but is ported and fitted with special rim-flow valves and springs. It is fitted with a special cam belt, Aldon distributor, electronic ignition and electric fan. One ¾" H.I.F SU carburettor, manifold mated to an RC40 exhaust system. Reconditioned gearbox and new clutch fitted. Engine oil cooler fitted. Servo assisted Cooper S front disc brakes with Mini Fin rear brake drums, all brake pipes and flexible hoses renewed.

Although this Cooper S is not strictly original having had 90% replaced, upgraded or renewed, the log book is of course still registered as a 1970 Cooper S and the car is therefore tax exempt. Many important original features are present including genuine twin petrol tanks, correct chrome fittings, bumpers, grill, surround and badges and many could argue that the upgrades fitted by the fastidious owner result in a better driving car, and more usable classic vehicle.

To the interior, the car benefits from full leather interior, new headlining, wire loom, wood rim steering wheel, wooden dashboard, genuine Cooper S speedo, rev counter, bull horn, new carpets, contemporary door handles and a modern stereo system incorporating iPod connection. Having covered fewer than 26,000 miles since total restoration, this car is in excellent order as you would expect.

This Cooper S sits on what look to be new Minilite wheels shod with fresh Yokohama tyres.

Included in the cars history file is a full photographic record of the total rebuild showing the attention to detail commanded during the restoration. Used sparingly, this Cooper S has been a regular in the summer months for Mini Shows and when not being celebrated by the Mini fraternity has always remained garaged. All-in-all this car is offered in better than new condition, and only very sad family circumstances force this reluctant sale.