1997 Mini Domino Cabriolet

Highlights 

• Incredibly rare convertible Mini Domino

• Unique Paul Smith tribute car

• Many upgraded and performance parts

• Uprated suspension and brakes

• JBW Minilite wheels

• Well-presented throughout

• Tastefully enhanced interior

• Reportedly mechanically sound and with a fresh MOT

Overview

One of the beautiful things about the ubiquitous Mini is its inherent ability to be all things to all people. Whatever your budget, taste, background or passion, there's probably a Mini that will fit the bill. But then that's to be expected from a car that was in continuous production for almost half a century, and that's not including the modern capitalised MINI models with BMW at the helm – they're still being made to this day.

With so many different Minis to choose from, including various special editions, limited production run models and race-bred examples, not to mention the countless modified and custom builds out there, finding a Mini that's just right for you out of the millions built is certainly within the realms of possibility and the sheer breadth of choice when it comes to Britain's plucky little automotive icon is part of what makes them so appealing.

And if a convertible version of Sir Alec Issigonis' legendary transverse-engined small car is what you're craving then you could certainly do a lot worse than this striking Rover Mini Domino cabriolet. Come on, just look at it! Number two of just seven such examples believed to exist in the UK, this particular convertible Domino is the only one of said bunch presenting as a Paul Smith tribute edition as reported by the vendor and much like the respected British fashion designer it oozes effortless style and quirky British charm. 

Professionally wrapped and badged in the fashion designers signature stripes, well over £12,000 has reportedly been spent in recent years and the car has previously been used as a show car as well as a talking piece for an advertising business such is its eye-catching nature, proving that it can be quite the little earner in the right hands. Currently part of a small private collection this marvellous Mini sports quite a spec list, including a peach of a 1,275cc A-Series unleaded engine at its heart complete with brand new HIF44 performance carburettor and Pipercross air filter, upgraded Lucas 65D electronic ignition distributor and a triple core radiator. A custom twin stainless steel exhaust has also been fitted along with brand new 12” x 6” Minilites with matching Nankang rubber.

Further upgrades consist of HiLo suspension with Spax adjustable shocks, adjustable tie bars and bottom arms as well as four pot alloy brake calipers with vented discs and Minifin alloy brake drums, ensuring that the car handles and stops as good as it looks. And boy does it look good, from the beautiful exterior to the half leather Cooper interior trim with Innocenti style dash and choice billeted touches. Make no mistake, this is a very special Mini indeed. 

History and documentation

• 1997 model year

• V5C present and correct in owner's name

• First registered 01 Apr 2000

• In current ownership since 31 Oct 2025

• Two former registered keepers

• Change of colour from white noted 28 Jun 2020

• Two keys

• HPI clear

• The Mini will come with a fresh MOT prior to hand over

• 7,783 indicated miles (MOT history incorrectly displays as 78001)

Interior

• In excellent condition throughout

• Minimal wear and tear

• No signs of any damage

• Half leather Cooper trim

• Innocenti style dash remains intact

• Seats remain in great shape but there is evidence of a slight stain to the passenger side base

• 13” wood-rimmed steering wheel with billeted boss

• Matching wooden gear knob

• Door cards present well, including the wooden trim pieces

• Carpets appear clean and dry

• No reports of any electrical issues

• Alpine CD stereo head unit 

• Pioneer door speakers

• Mini the Minx doll included

• Battery in boot

• Boot space presents well and comes complete with carpet and fire extinguisher

• Engine bay is clean and tidy 

• Domino Car Co (UK) LTD tag present under the bonnet

Exterior

• The exterior presents well across all panels

• Paul Smith tribute multicoloured wrap looks to be in superb shape but there is some slight scuffing to the front edge of both doors and an imperfect finish across both outside roof rails 

• No signs of any major damage

• All shut lines look good 

• The vendor informs us that the black leather hood/canopy is new and there is no apparent damage to the windows

• No evidence of any corrosion

• 12” deep dish JBW Minilite alloy wheels are in excellent condition with no signs of any kerb rash

• Tyres are matching Nankang Green Sport models

• All chrome trim pieces look to be in good condition with no pitting

• All glasswork remains free from damage

• Underneath looks to be in good shape 

• The vendor informs us that the subframes have been powder coated 

Mechanical

• 1.3-litre inline four-cylinder engine

• Four-speed manual gearbox 

• Front-wheel drive

• HIF44 performance carburettor and Pipercross air filter

• Lucas 65D electronic ignition distributor

• Triple core radiator

• Custom twin stainless steel exhaust

• HiLo suspension with Spax adjustable shocks

• Adjustable tie bars and bottom arms

• Four pot alloy brake calipers with vented discs

• Minifin alloy brake drums 

• No mechanical issues to report 

Summary

Paul Smith's collaborations with Mini have become iconic and this tribute is no less special, especially due to the rare nature of these Domino cabriolets. Undoubtedly the coolest car in any car park and a potential talking point for any business venture this Mini Domino is a stunning and incredibly rare machine that is absolutely guaranteed to turn heads wherever you choose to drive it, and being reportedly in such rude health that can either be to the shops every week, doing the classic car show circuit in the warmer months or on longer jaunts abroad.

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.