ROVER MINI

Background
The original Mini was a revolution on wheels, offering iconic style and space for the masses. It was the fuel crisis-beating 'people's car' that became a fashion icon, synonymous with Britain and the 'Swinging Sixties'. The mechanical genius of the design placed the ubiquitous A-Series engine transversely across the frame, sharing its sump with the gearbox. A rubber cone suspension replaced traditional springs, accentuating the nimble, go-kart-like handling and allowing for 80% of the floorpan to be used by passengers and their luggage.

During the 1980s and 1990s, the classic Mini featured satin black/grey bumpers on some models as part of efforts to modernise the range under the 'modern' Austin Rover lineup. Later examples began to embrace their aesthetic heritage once again, with chrome bumpers making a return.

The Car
This Rover Mini rolled out of the Longbridge plant in 1991, originally as a Neon special edition, meaning the car would have been finished in Nordic Blue.

It underwent a recommissioning and a repaint from blue to British Racing Green in 2005 – a colour that suits the car very well. It also benefits from a few light modifications including an upgraded Fletcher radiator, Gaz shocks all round, front brakes from Gold Mini Sport with grooved discs, an uprated sports exhaust and a KAD quick shifter. It currently sits on a set of Starmag alloys wrapped in Yokohama tyres.

The interior has been fitted with a set of sports seats that have been retrimmed to match the rear seats. Recently installed carpeting includes sound deadening underneath and is topped with black and green mats.

The car comes with an MOT valid until December, two keys and a car cover. This sensibly guided, well presented Rover Mini is a great entry into the ever-popular world of Minis.

Location: West Midlands

Seller: Private

Photo: Professional