1963 MORRIS MINI

Few motor cars encapsulate the optimism and ingenuity of 1960s Britain quite like the Mini Cooper S, yet when entrusted to Harold Radford, one of Britain's foremost coachbuilders of luxury motor cars, the humble Mini was transformed into something altogether more exclusive. Offered here is one of the earliest and most desirable examples of that remarkable collaboration.

This exceptional Morris Mini Cooper S 1071 was built on 9th May 1963 before being dispatched later that month to the renowned London BMC distributor, Stewart & Ardern Ltd of Acton. The registration it wears today, 408 JGF, is believed to be its original one further enhancing its authenticity and provenance.

Even amongst Radford-converted Minis, this is a particularly significant example. Recorded as Radford Cooper S number 34, it is one of a very small number specified with the highly sought-after 1,071cc Cooper S power unit, making it an exceptionally rare survivor from the earliest days of Radford Mini production.

Whilst Radford conversions were beautifully appointed, all the sound deadening, luxury seating, and power accessories added significant weight, which blunted the little Cooper's sharp performance, perhaps not a worry for an owner more focused on luxury, but for those buyers who wanted to restore this performance loss, Harold Radford's partnership with Downton Engineering provided a solution.

When our vendor first saw the car at the National Mini Day, he had the benefit of being in the company of the knowledgeable Chris Harper from Mini Sport. He had a good look at the car, noted the black, crackle-finished rocker cover with the brass Downton plate and commented ‘well there’s no way that’s not real’ which ensured it was purchased there and then by the current owner. His comments confirmed that this remarkable Cooper S was a very rare dual-heritage 1071 S, exactly as hoped and provided additional reassurance regarding its authenticity.

Having remained in the previous owner's care for some 40 years, the car presents with the benefit of long-term custodianship and an intriguing history. It is believed by Chris Harper that this may be the only Radford Mini Cooper S equipped from new with a heated rear window. Further luxury appointments include electrically operated tinted windows with manual override, beautifully crafted timber interior capping’s, an exquisitely trimmed leather interior (the driver’s seat has been recently fully redone as age had taken its toll), full folding sunroof and far too many other additions to list. They are all hallmarks of Harold Radford's celebrated craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Accompanying the car is an impressively comprehensive history file containing supporting documentation including records confirming its Concours d'Elegance success within the Mini Cooper Register, including a First in Class One in 2021 and further concours honours in 2022, testament to both its authenticity and meticulous presentation. Also accompanying the car are an original Mini Cooper sales brochure and, perhaps more significantly, an exceptionally rare original Radford Mini De Ville brochure, illustrating the extensive range of bespoke options available to discerning customers in period, complementing the already generous standard specification for which Harold Radford became renowned.

Today, verified matching numbers, factory Minis that feature both original Radford luxury coachwork and documented Downton mechanical tuning are considered the holy grail for classic Mini collectors. Combining rarity, originality, documented provenance and outstanding presentation, 408 JGF represents an exceptional opportunity for the serious Mini collector. We strongly encourage interested parties to inspect the car in person to fully appreciate the quality, specification and significance of this remarkable example.