2000 Rover Mini Cooper LE

Highlights 

• Rare, limited edition anniversary model 

• Beautifully restored example in Brooklands Green over Old English White

• Excellent condition throughout

• Well maintained

• Fully documented restoration

• Low mileage

• Long MOT

Overview

We honestly doubt that the Mini's lasting appeal will ever truly wane, especially since there's nothing really nowadays that can compare to the sheer amount of fun you can have behind the wheel of one of the most iconic automobiles to ever grace tarmac. Whether winning rallies or pootling to the shops the car's boundless appeal is infectious and we can't help but smile whenever we see one drive past. It's a true mood booster – nourishment for the soul.

That may sound rather hyperbolic to some but anyone who has actually driven a Mini will surely agree. Whether it be an original Mk1 with all the quirks that come along with piloting an eminently charming, nearly half a century old shoebox, or one of the more modern and therefore usable Rover Group offerings, driving one these legendary small cars will always spark joy, even in the most callous of hearts.

Still enjoying a renaissance at the hands of BMW the modern MINI, whilst being a very good car, is hardly, well, mini any more. Some of what made those original cars so attractive, so endearingly charming, has arguably been lost to modernity in the wake of marketing focus groups and while we do agree that the very first models back in the '50s and '60s can feel a little agricultural, it's perhaps the Rover group incarnations that are the most accessible. Cars like this rather lovely 2000 Mini Cooper for example – a wonderful example of the latest and most developed version of the original Mini before the Germans got involved.

The vendor informs us that this is one of the last 300 40th anniversary Limited Edition Cooper LE models to roll off the production line between 1999 and 2000 that has since been extensively restored over a four year period to bring it to stunning original condition at a cost of around £20,000. Introduced in 1999 to celebrate 40 years of the classic Mini, these special edition of the Mini 40s, based on the Cooper S, were produced in very limited numbers. One of the most expensive classic production Minis ever built, they showcased an impressive list of features, including rally-esque front spot lamps and a full leather interior.

Currently part of a small private collection this beautifully-presented car in classic Brooklands Green with 'Old English' white roof and stripes, in addition to the photographically documented restorative work, also benefits from new 13” Minilite alloy wheels, a service 60 miles ago and a fresh paint detail as reported by the vendor.

History and documentation

• 2000 model year

• V5C present and correct in owner's name

• First registered 03 Mar 2000

• In current ownership since 24 Sep 2025

• Eight registered former keepers

• Two keys with remote fobs

• Original book pack and wallet

• Restored in 2015 with photographic documentation

• Numerous supporting specialist invoices for parts, servicing and maintenance

• Service history with original service book showing inspections at the following intervals: 2000 @ 10,613 miles (first service), 2005 @ 24,333 miles (budget service, main dealer), 2008 @ 38,182 miles (main dealer), 2010 @ 42,101 miles

• Receipts for services in 2019 and 2021

• HPI clear

• MOT until 23 Feb 2027

• 69,469 indicated miles

Interior

• In superb shape throughout

• Full red leather upholstery 

• The vendor informs us that the driver's seat was restored last year

• Minimal signs of wear

• No visible damage to report

• Mini Cooper branded steering wheel and gear knob

• Door cards present well but the middle fastener on both pockets has failed

• Dashboard remains intact

• No apparent issues with any of the dials

• Vendor does not report any electrical or switchgear problems

• Original stereo

• Rear parcel shelf speakers

• Headlining is clean and has not sagged

• Tidy boot space

• All-weather car cover included

• Engine bay presents well overall but there is some surface rust to note in places

Exterior

• Restored in 2015 and in very good condition

• No sign of any corrosion

• Brooklands Green paintwork presents well and retains a good shine

• 'Old English' White roof in great shape

• Recent paint correction last year by Blackbeard's Detailing

• No evidence of any dents or damage

• All chrome trim pieces look to be free from pitting

• Panel gaps all look good

• Glasswork and weather stripping all appear to be free from any issues

• John Cooper badging to both doors

• Dual front fog lights

• Polished chrome tail pipe

• Original dealership rear window sticker and road tax holder

• The vendor informs us that the 13” Minilite alloy wheels and all four Yokohama A539 tyres were new last year

• Underneath appears to be in clean, healthy condition

Mechanical

• 1.3-litre inline four-cylinder engine

• Four-speed manual gearbox 

• Front-wheel drive

• Koni adjustable shocks

• Polybushed in places

• Recent new expansion bottle and Yuasa battery

• No mechanical issues to report  

Summary

Featuring a more lively 1,275cc four-cylinder over its predecessors with multi-point fuel injection, electronic ignition and management, as well as a now front-mounted radiator, the Mk VII Mini remains a rev-happy go-kart that just begs to be driven enthusiastically. A more exclusive proposition for the discerning fan, this much rarer Mini Cooper LE takes all of that original car's charm and exquisite driving characteristics and adds in a dash or exclusivity, making it a top choice for those in the market for a beautifully-presented example that's just that little bit extra.

To arrange a viewing, click the 'Book Viewing' button located under the 'Place Bid' button. Viewings can be booked up until the day before the auction ends, after which the option will change to 'Contact Seller' for further enquiries. This seller is located in Glasgow, Scotland.