1965 Austin Mini Moke

The Mini Moke was designed by Sir Alec Issigonis at the same time as the Mini saloon, and used an identical engine, transmission and suspension parts. Although the pre-production prototype came out in 1959, full-scale production did not start until 1964. It may seem strange to design and build a vehicle with no clear idea what you are going to do with it, but this was BMC in the 1960s. It was initially mooted as a parachute-dropped utility vehicle for the British Army, but this notion failed at the first hurdle when they rejected it due to its low ground clearance. It was then decided that it would make an excellent tool for farmers and as a light commercial vehicle. This was partially scuppered yet again when it was rated as a passenger car and therefore subject to Purchase Tax. It did, however, gain a strong following and became a cult classic after featuring in the TV series, The Prisoner, and found its true role as a fun beach car at which it excelled. Some 14,500 Mokes were produced at BMC's Longbridge plant between 1964 and 1968 before production moved to Australia where a further 26,000 were made between 1966 and 1981. Another 10,000 were made in Portugal before production finally ceased in 1993.

This early, UK-Supplied, right-hand drive Austin Mini Moke underwent a complete frame-off restoration, and was rebuilt to factory-specifications, retaining its original Mk1 features such as the single windscreen wiper and floor mounted headlight dip-switch. Finished in a shade of Spruce Green with black trim, it still has its original 850cc engine and 4-speed transmission, which has also been completely rebuilt.

Superbly restored with no expense spared and very few miles since, it's supplied with a small history file and UK V5C. A British classic to enjoy with friends and family, always attracting the right attention and welcome at any classic car event or garden party.