1972 Austin Mini 

($6k! ) Green / White 'retro-style' Mini [in San Rafael, SF Bay Area]

UPDATE: Seller reports it's GONE, GONE, GONE to its new home!

This retro-style 1972 Mini is a Mk3 model, but it's fitted with a number of features of the '60's model Minis, including some found on the iconic Cooper and Cooper S models.

Exterior:

First off, the two-color combination would be as found on the factory performance Cooper and Cooper S models, (ie: which had contrasting color roofs, typically white or black). Add to that the retro dark green color (a bit darker than the traditional "British Racing Green") and at first glance, it's an early Mini. Next, the stock 10" steel wheels are shod with genuine early '60's full, slotted wheel covers, which also came on the early "998 Cooper" models (which are getting harder and harder to find!). Adding to the early look, a pair of twin driving lights and a roof-mount antenna give it a bit of a rally theme.

The retro-style UK number plate has black letters on silver background - and the numbers on the California (vanity) plate match too!

Additional exterior upgrades include a pop-up glass sunroof, twin chrome side view mirrors, winged Mini bonnet badge and checkered roof-rail trim. Below rear bumper, reverse and red fog lamps added.

Mechanicals:

While the standard 1960's Minis had 850cc engines, this Mini is fitted with a 998cc, smooth-running engine that cruises at 70 mph without even breathing hard! Transmission is a four-speed, four-synchro model.

Has the traditional right-hand-drive (RHD) steering, but all Minis come with the holes and mountings to put the steering on either side; (contact us for details).

Interior:

Continuing the retro theme, there's a wood dash and wood steering wheel. The custom dash features a wood-fascia center speedo pod, switch plate and twin wood gloveboxes. Also fitted is a rally-style "Paddy Hopkirk" alloy accelerator pedal.

Modern interior upgrades include reclining buckets with headrests; upholstery is black vinyl w/ patterned cloth inserts. Three-point, retractable front seat belts. Has carpet mats, black door cards with red accent stripe, and a locking steering column.

Nicely upgraded boot is fully carpeted, with hinged boot board (ie: boot boards came in Cooper S models).

Under the bonnet:

Reliability and performance upgrades include oil cooler with braided stainless lines, single SU carb, low-restriction K&N air filter element, alloy intake manifold and low-restriction exhaust. Period rocker cover features riveted Morris plate.

Odometer reads 88k miles, believed to be original. Runs well, drives well, according to seller, and its 4-wheel drum brakes work fine too.

Restoration/refurb was done in UK approx. 10 years ago. Paint showing some wear. It's said that all Minis have rust - it's just a question of how much and where. This one has rust blisters primarily in lower door corner, as well as near the "A" panel and in left rear roof corner. Lower door step also showing blistering. (see closeup pics; more on request).

Currently registered and titled in California, and seller reports it has been so for about 5 years.

Located in San Rafael, CA 94941 (in Mill Valley, North of San Francisco Bay Area)

[ ID# GREEN3NORCAL ] Asking $6k.


IMPORTANT NOTE: For a thorough, independent mechanical evaluation by a Mini specialist - which we strongly advise for any Mini you are considering adopting - please contact us for details and recommendations.


FINE PRINT: MiniGuy / Lewis Motors makes no representations as to the accuracy of any seller's listings on our "Consignment - For Sale by Owner" pages, including but not limited to, physical or mechanical condition of vehicle, status of title or registration, any applicable emissions-equipment, emissions-testing or emissions-certification requirements, as well as relevant safety equipment or safety-related requirements, import status, or fitness for use. Please note that emissions or safety requirements may differ by state, region, or country. Potential buyers should consult their appropriate state or local agencies or departments to determine, among other things, the status of a particular vehicle related to the above, including vehicles that might normally be exempt from emissions testing, emissions equipment, or emissions certification requirements. For California buyers or sellers, more information may be obtained from various state and local agencies, including, but not limited to, the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), the Bureau of Automotive Repairs (BAR) and the California Air Resources Board (ARB).

BOTTOM LINE: This is a case where it pays to do your homework. Be careful what you buy, you may not be able to drive it in some states, including California.

UPDATE: Seller reports it's GONE, GONE, GONE to its new home!

Contact Information

MiniGuy / Lewis Motors (805) 405-6263 Agoura Hills CA