1992 Mini Shorty with matching trailer

Designed as project ADO15 (Austin Drawing Office project number 15), the Mini came about because of a fuel shortage caused by the 1956 Suez Crisis. Petrol was once again rationed in the UK, sales of large cars slumped, the market for German bubble cars boomed. Leonard Lord, the somewhat autocratic head of BMC, reportedly detested these cars so much that he vowed to rid the streets of them and design a 'proper miniature car'. Issigonis, who had been working for Alvis, had been recruited back to BMC in 1955 and, with his skills in designing small cars, was a natural for the task. The team that designed the Mini was remarkably small: as well as Issigonis, there was Jack Daniels (who had worked with him on the Morris Minor), Chris Kingham (who had been with him at Alvis), two engineering students and four draughtsmen. Together, by October 1957, they had designed and built the original prototype, which was affectionately named "The Orange Box" because of its colour.

We are informed by the vendor that this Mini Shorty actually began life as a standard Mini City back in 1992. This particular car has been extensively modified both bodily and mechanically, the original engine has been ditched in favour of a 1275 Metro engine which in turn gives this little car a tremendous turn of speed. Nicknamed and badged 'Shortarse' this car draws more attention than almost anything on the road. The vendor has also decided to include in the sale the custom made Mini trailer which makes this a rare opportunity to own a totally unique Mini, sold with an MOT until June 2014 this must surely be one of the most unusual lots available this weekend.