1996 Mini Sprite

Highlights 

• Solid sixth-gen Mini with some choice upgrades

• Fully re-trimmed interior

• Ultralight deep dish alloy wheels

• In excellent condition throughout

• Advisory-free MOT

• Large collection of past invoices

• Reportedly mechanically sound 

Overview

For many the Mini represents an excellent entry point into the wonderful and eclectic world of classic car ownership. Unpretentious, wholly accessible and bags of fun to boot the perennially popular Mini doesn't have delusions of grandeur. It doesn't pretend to be something it's not or make false claims as to its abilities. The plucky Brit will always remain an alluring proposition that will forever have a place in the hearts and minds of petrolheads the world over and with so many to choose from, including the Sprite, there really is a model for everyone. 

Ushered in under Rover Group ownership in 1992 the Mini Sprite retains the original Mini aesthetic whilst being a more modern and therefore arguably easier to live with interpretation and was marketed as the entry level model in the line-up. Featuring the 1,275cc iteration of the A-Series inline four-cylinder engine in carburettor form producing around 50bhp the Sprite included chrome bumpers and 'Sprite' graphics, among other aesthetic bits and bobs. It gained single point fuel injection in '94 and an extra three horsepower as part of the deal and lasted for another two years before making way for the Mark VII in '96.

Still very much a popular choice nowadays for the budding Mini Fan a good Sprite can successfully scratch that classic Mini itch for those looking for a solid, mid-nineties car and this particular 1996 example is no exception. Bought by the current vendor 12 years ago then sold and bought again a second time – which should tell you all you need to know about the car's inherent charm – this Sprite presents wonderfully throughout. Resplendent in a bright red exterior with chequered roof over cream leather interior that has recently benefited from a full re-trim, the car, along with a host of exterior upgrades that includes deep dish alloy wheels and arches and front fog lights, cuts quite the dash and presents as a more beefed up example of the marque.

Clearly well-maintained – evinced in part by its current advisory-free MOT – the car has been elevated beyond its humble Sprite beginnings yet would still make an excellent choice for anyone wanting to own and enjoy a usable classic Mini. 

History and documentation

• 1996 model year

• V5C present and correct in vendor's name

• First registered 09 May 1996

• In current ownership since 01 Sep 2025

• Four registered former keepers

• Two sets of keys

• Good history file with multiple invoices for parts, servicing, MOTs and maintenance

• Numerous old MOT certificates

• Advisory-free MOT until 22 Aug 2026

• HPI clear

• 33,071 indicated miles

Interior

• In very good condition throughout

• Fully re-trimmed in Stone Leather Sep 2009

• Burr walnut trim is in great shape

• No signs of any major damage

• Minimal wear and tear

• Carpets and Mini Sport floor mats appear clean and dry

• Sony face-off stereo head unit

• Speakers fitted beneath the rear seats

• Momo pedals

• Headlining has not sagged

• No reports of any electrical issues

• Dual clocks with chrome surround

• Three spoke steering wheel showing some signs of wear

• Some light mould to the nearside rear seatbelt

• Full boot lining kit included but not fitted

• Engine bay is a little dirty in places but there is no evidence of any fluid leaks

Exterior

• In superb shape overall

• Paintwork looks to be in good condition with no sign of any corrosion

• Chrome trim looks to be free from any pitting

• All panel gaps appear uniform

• No damage to any of the windows or light lenses

• Black chequer decal kit fitted in 2009 with some light degradation in places

• Cooper grille 

• Wheel arch kit fitted

• Lamp bar with Cooper spot lamps

• Chrome bullet style wing mirrors

• Sprite decals present and correct

• 7”X13” Ultralight deep dish alloy wheels all look to be in excellent condition with only some light kerb grazing in places to note

• Yokohama A539 high performance tyres all round

• Underneath looks to be in good, clean condition

Mechanical

• 1.3-litre inline four-cylinder engine

• Four-speed manual gearbox 

• Front-wheel drive

• New exhaust system in 2009

• New water pump May 2021

• No mechanical issues to report 

• The vendor informs us that the car starts, stops and drives as it should

Summary

Taking a solid base and adding some choice aesthetic upgrades in order to present a more muscular aesthetic is the name of the game here and the results speak for themselves. This is a Sprite with attitude and it's all apparently been done to a very high standard using trusted suppliers. What we have then is a very clean Mini that looks great, reportedly drives exactly as it should and has zero mechanical issues. What's not to like? 

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 Preston, Lancashire.