As part of our freebie course, we would usually lock up the shop and take three or four folks (or couples) out in Minis and let them experience for themselves the fun of piloting a Mini down the road and – most importantly – in the twisties. Most days, we would trade off driving a range of Minis so class attendees could drive both left hand drive (LHD) and right-hand drive (RHD) Minis. Along with that, we’d have them experience a variety of engine/brake combinations – from the base model’s stock 850cc engine, the uprated 998cc engine, as well as 1275cc engines in stock and “stage one” configurations, followed by a spin in the factory high-performance “Cooper S” models. For braking systems, we’d have them try out the early “single leading shoe” drum brakes (ie: ’59-’63), then the “twin leading shoe” type (ie: ’64 and up), then the Cooper “S” 7.5″ front disc setup and the upgraded 8.4″ type. Along with drives up the canyons, we’d hit the freeway so our students could see that even the base model 850cc Minis are freeway-capable.

We had people fly in from all over the country for our class/ride/drive events.

For people concerned about driving a stick-shift, I’ve always said that I can teach anyone to drive a stick-shift in 15 minutes. (no kidding; ask me for the secret that nobody even thinks about…). In fact, I had one couple fly out from Wisconsin, but the wife insisted she couldn’t drive a stick. Ten minutes later, she was – and her husband said he’d tried teach her for 15 years!

By the way, in our Minis 101 course – or when you call or email us about Minis – there is no such thing as a stupid question…

Driving Minis, talkin’ Minis, teaching about Minis, putting grins on peoples’ faces – and on those of the people and kids we’d pass…

It’s no wonder I’ve always said, “My wife thinks I go to ‘work’…”

Disclaimer: At no time were these class/ride/drive events used as a way to pressure customers into buying our Minis. We didn’t have to, our new friends would typically shove checks at us upon their return – or after a sleepless night filled with dreams of classic Minis… <>.

As a result, as part of the freebie “Minis 101″ course mentioned above, we always took the time to point out – on Minis we had in our showroom – the different models and how to spot them. But that’s not what today’s feature is about…

After I got the bug to get a classic Mini, I turned to the Internet.

During my first searches, I stumbled on a message board for classic Minis. While “lurking” (sounds a little twisted, but it just means you are reading and not posting), I read a post where a guy said he had a “MK1.” When I read it, I didn’t know if he meant he had a classic Mini, or some other vehicle with that name. Searching that site – and using Google – for “MK1″ didn’t help much. After a time, I discovered he was talking about the earliest models of Minis, built between the Mini’s initial 1959 launch up to about mid-’67.

He called his Mini a “MK1,” but it was a bit confusing when some called them a “mk1,” while others referred to them as “MKI,” “Mk1,” “mk1,” “mkI,” “Mk 1,” “Mark 1,” or “Mark I.” (On this site, the format we like is the most-commonly used “Mk1″style when designating various models).

So, in a nutshell, here is what a newbie should know, along with a spotter’s guide to the various models, including the Mk1, Mk2 and Mk3 types:

Mk1: (as pictured below; see white one)

Built between the Mini’s 1959 launch through about mid-1967. Has distinctive front “moustache” grille, so called because its shape looks a bit like a “handlebar-moustache” shape around the mouth-like grille, along with “whiskers” extending out under the front marker/turn signal lights. Mk1 doors have “external hinges” and “sliding” windows (although some countries such as Australia or Italy sometimes had “roll-up windows,” but here we’re going to go with the typical UK-built versions). The sliding windows have two pieces of glass that can be moved forward or back, or a combination of the two, to better control airflow. Bootlid (“trunk” for us Yanks) has unique license plate holder that flips down when bootlid is open while driving, such as when the (up-to-four, full-size) passengers and their luggage went traveling. Taillights are small and oval-shaped.

Here’s a link to one of the Mk1 Minis listed on our “Consignment-For Sale by Owner” pages: ID# WTCOOP63.

Spotters Guide: For quick ID as it runs down road, look for moustache grille, external hinges, sliding windows and small oval taillights.

Mk2: (as pictured below; see “Saxon Green” Mini)

Generally, built between mid-’67 through the end of ’69. Still has external-hinge doors with sliding windows, but with taillights that are larger and rectangular-shaped, with two-color lenses (red and amber). Front grille is larger, with chrome “grille surrounds” that are fitted to the leading edge of bonnet (ie: what we call a “hood”), (versus no chrome on front of bonnet on Mk1 models), as well as to the sides, giving front end what looks like a larger “mouth.” There are no longer any whiskers extending under the front turn-signal lights. The rear window is also a bit wider, but not that you’d notice.

Here’s a link to a nice Mk2, also available: ID# INNO1.

Spotters Guide: External-hinge doors with sliding windows, larger “mouth” for grille and larger, rectangular taillights.

Mk3: (as pictured at bottom; see the mustard – aka: “baby diaper yellow – Mini…)

Built starting in 1970. With minor changes, design stayed same for next 30 years, before production of classic Mini ended in year 2000. Big change was going to doors with rollup windows and internal hinges. Taillights (larger, rectangular) and grille (larger, mouth-like) remained same as Mk2 models.

Here’s another available Mini, a nice Mk3: ID# GR8747.

Spotters Guide: Rollup-window doors with internal hinges. Same grille and taillights as Mk2.

Mk3-plus: (not pictured)

Only minor changes in appearance over remaining years – all components that may be fitted to newer or older versions of the Mk3 and Mk3-plus. Basic body shell from ’70-2000, for the most part, is interchangeable. Taillights now three-color, with reverse light. At one point, side marker lights above front wheels. Wheel diameters changed from 10″ diameter to 12″; small, screw-on plastic “flares” (ie: wheel arches) added. Some Minis available with Minilite-style (8-spoke) alloy wheels. For some years, 13″ alloys available, along with wider wheel arches. As mentioned, Mk3-plus exterior mostly looked same as ’70 models.

CAUTION:

The classic Mini is dubbed the “Mr. Potato Head” of cars, since pieces and parts from one model may be swapped with another. Mk1 grilles (and taillights, with a bit more work) may be fitted to Mk2-MK3-plus Minis, and vice versa. Flares may be added or removed. Wheel diameters/widths may be increased or decreased. Color schemes may be altered. Interiors and dashes may be swapped out, along with engines. I think you get the general idea…

Hope that helps… oh, and tell “Mark” that MiniGuy says hello…

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Not long after, Patrick R. – and his Mini pictured below – headed to Hollywood. After a quick stop at the security gate, Patrick was promptly ushered to the set. The plot called for the heroine (a hottie, dressed skimpily, of course) to be chased by ghastly ghouls while in a downpour. She attempts to escape by taking refuge in the Mini (which we consider to be the real star), and huddles in the rear seat. Undaunted, the ghoul-guys surround the little Mini and begin rocking it – while the terrified teen acts, well, terrified…

Patrick – paid nicely for his trouble – later emails, “Thanks for hooking me up with the movie shoot. It was a lot of fun. Everything was shot on green screen with effects to be added later. It was really interesting to be part of the process and to see firsthand how movies are made. Not sure what the name of the pilot will be, none of the crew I asked seemed to know. Will be interesting to see if my Mini makes it to the ‘little screen’…”

Below are several shots from the shoot. or Click Here for all 42 of Patrick’s pics…

This one’s from a long-time Mini friend…

Pictured here is just one of the vehicles you will find referred to, a classic Mini that has doors with external hinges, sliding windows and chrome door trim such as found on Cooper and Cooper S models. From the pic, it could be a Mk1 (up to mid-’67) or a Mk2 (up through 1969), although but it has later-model, factory-type flares, along with polished alloy wheels. Purists will, of course, note that the red car has a white top, which, in that era, should have been black unless it was a factory “works” race/rally Mini, and…

Anyway, we’re getting a bit off track – although this time it did have to do with classic Minis.

So, here is the email:
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A New York man retired. He wanted to use his retirement money wisely, so it would last, and decided to buy a home and a few acres in Portugal. The modest farmhouse had been vacant for 15 years; the owner and wife both had died, and there were no heirs.

The house was sold to pay taxes. There had been several lookers, but the large barn had steel doors, and they had been welded shut.

Nobody wanted to go to the extra expense to see what was in the barn, and it wasn’t complimentary to the property anyway…so, nobody made an offer on the place.

The New York guy bought it at just over half of the property’s worth, moved in, and set about to tear into the barn. His curiosity was killing him…

So, he and his wife bought a generator, and a couple of grinders…and cut thru the welds.

And what was in the barn…?

Go to: www.intuh.net/barnfinds/afa70.htm and start wishing it had been you who bought the place.

NOTE: Be sure to click NEXT on each slide, there is a lot.

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Go take a look and come back, and we’ll talk.
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Okay, now that you have seen it, here’s what I did — Google’d that web address and found:

Results 1 – 10 of about 899 for www.intuh.net/barnfinds/afa70.htm

Wade through all the crap and try to get me a legitimate, authoritative account or source and I’d love to read it. Let me know what you find…

Of course, there is a different way of getting to the truth quickly:

I’ve mentioned www.Snopes.com before, a source I often used as a journalist to debunk myths, “urban legends” and check out stories that are “too good to be true.

Plugged in “barn find” in the search field and this came up:

http://www.snopes.com/photos/automobiles/barnfind.asp

I’ll just let you read it.

I’ve never found Snopes to be wrong. It’s a fascinating site, with a great search function. Puts to rest all those stories and rumors we’ve all heard about this and that… For example, try searching with the terms: “jet powered car” and so on…

If you liked reading this post, perhaps you could circulate this to all who sent you that same email – and to those you forwarded it to? Maybe someday it will work its way back to me – in a different version, I expect… Just for fun, perhaps y’all could CC me on any emails you send out about this?

Signed, ever-the-skeptic, former automotive/transportation-technology journalist….

-Michael / MiniGuy
www.miniguy.com

p.s.- Although I must say a number of “found-in-a-barn” stories on the various discussion boards that followed the Portugal emails are very interesting…and some even true…

We’d like to meet your needs, but we’ll need you to help us out by re-sending your emails, or dropping us a new one. Also, if you received emails from us, please send those back too. Our faxes also arrive via email, so if you have sent any, check with us to see if we need those too, or just fax it again.

Thanks for understanding, and please, no wisecracks about “Lucas computers”…

For the newbies out there, British cars – including Minis – have gained a reputation that those with Lucas electrics experience an inordinate number of electrical issues, hence the jibes…

Reminds me of the old joke. “Why do Englishmen drink warm beer? That’s because they have Lucas refrigerators!”

Or, some British car owners lament a visit from “Lucas, the Prince of Darkness,” who, oh, never mind, I think you get the general idea…

Click Here to See the Full Slide Show

or go to: http://ho.racine-web.com/mmw2007/index.html

Click the arrow at the top and sit back and enjoy the show…

Pictured here is one of his shots that typifies the sense of humor of classic Mini owners. Take a look at that exhaust tip!

This particular publicity campaign ran a while back, but it’s one of my favorites.

Pictured here is a jumbo-sized SUV (aka: “Sport Utility Vehicle”) with a MINI perched atop it on what’s meant to mimic a giant roof rack carrying weekend toys such as kayaks, canoes, windsurfers, snowboards, surfboards or what have you.

Emblazoned on the side, it asks “What Are You Doing For Fun This Weekend?”

The SUVs were then driven around popular/trendy places; I believe this shot was taken in San Francisco.

I read somewhere that they installed some pretty heavy pillars and reinforcing to carry the 2,700 lb. MINI. By the way, here’s some comparisons between the “old” and the “new.”

Curb Weight

MINI: 2,700 lbs.
Classic Mini: (about) 1,400 lbs.

Length:

MINI: 12’1.6″
Classic Mini: 10′.25″

Width

MINI: 6’3.8″
Classic Mini: 4’7.5″

Height

MINI: 4’7.5″
Classic Mini: 4’5″

Numerically challenged? That means the MINI is about 1,300 lbs heavier, 2′ longer, 2′ wider and 2.5″ taller.

And which one gets more attention? And rarer on the roads? And steals the show at car events and in commercials and movies? And gets more thumbs ups, smiles and waves?

Um, take a wild guess!

We have lots of folks looking to adopt classic Minis, and we also need more of them for our “Consignment – For Sale by Owner” pages.

Please let us know if you know of any Minis that might be for sale – anything from junkers to gems. Got one, or got a lead for us? Please let us know your tips, or steer the owners directly to us.

Email: miniguy@miniguy.com

Phone: Michael “MiniGuy” Lewis
cell (805) 405-6263 (calls 8a-11p California time are fine).

So, what are you waiting for?

Nothing like an after-work run through the mountains and down to the beach to watch the sun go down to clear out the cobwebs – and put another of those crazy smiles on our faces…

In this episode, Clarkson and crew head to Norway and its famous Lillehammer ski jump, searching for a way to jump a classic Mini as far as possible. After some scribbles-on-a-napkin calculations, the team settles on rocket power. And, not just any rockets – these have a total of 1.5 tons of thrust. And, since it’s a ski jump, a pair of giant skis are fitted to the Mini. For safety reasons, according to Clarkson, the Mini was unmanned. Instead, a pair of carved-out tracks helped keep the Mini headed straight down the ramp…

We think you’ll be amused at the result.

On YouTube, the full Top Gear episode runs 10 minutes, but – if you’re in a hurry – there’s a one-minute snippet of only the launch on StupidVideos.com

Click Here to see the full episode on YouTube or go to: www.youtube.com/watch?v=764mD9sh-Wo

Or, Click Here for the StupidVideos.com quickie version or go to: www.stupidvideos.com/video/stunts/fm_miniskijump

Pictured here is not the jet-powered, ski-jump Mini, but a shot of a university student’s rocket-powered little red wagon. We liked the pic, so we’re using it…

Included among the many classic Minis are a Mini limo, a snowmobile-type Mini, a radical blower-engined Mini, a couple versions of Mini panel vans and a couple Monte Carlo Rally Minis.

Check it out, particularly the slide show.

Ichayama’s Paper Cards:

One language-translation site interprets the Japanese on the homepage to read:

“Welcome to ‘the soldier of the card.’ With this sight the paper construction which Ichiyama makes is introduced.”

Click Here to go to Ichayama’s Paper Cards or go to: http://www5b.biglobe.ne.jp/~kamaboko/

There’s a way to get folding templates for making a Mini of your own, but we don’t read Japanese. Can anyone help us out with that?

This category of “microcars,” as they are more commonly known in collector circles, were fuel-sipping, relatively inexpensive vehicles designed to counter the threat of skyrocketing oil prices on the horizon.

That was then; This is now:

The Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles is a great place to see a cool collection of the microcars of that time.

Pictured here is a Messerschmitt, just one example:

Citing from the www.petersen.org website, “The Messerschmitt Tiger (Tg500) was one of very few microcars with sporting potential and many were raced. Unlike other Messershmitts, which had a single rear wheel, the Tiger was equipped with two rear wheels for improved traction and stability.”

The microcar exhibit runs June 23 through Feb. 3, 2008. Other featured exhibits at the Petersen include, among others, American convertibles, Ferraris, alternative-fuel vehicles, Hollywood star cars and classic hot rods.

Always something interesting to see – and well worth a special trip…

Click Here to go to the Petersen Automotive Museum or go to: www.petersen.org

For one solution, a shortened (or “Shorty”) Mini just might do the trick. Anyone out there have one they might be willing to part with?

I saw one a number of years on eBay that was part of a package deal with a motorhome conversion of a Greyhound-type bus. A luggage-style compartment opens up and the Mini shorty runs down a little ramp and off it goes. I think the bus and Mini were both white, but I could be wrong.

Speaking of Minis, I say “It’s a small world when it comes to these small cars.”

Has anyone seen that pair?

The Mini shorty shown here is based on the Clubman Mini, the extended, squarish-nose Mini that appeared for a time starting in the early ’70′s. Not long after, British Leyland (the new name for the old Austin and Morris badged-cars) dropped the square-nose from its lineup and continued to only offer the traditional “roundnose” Mini…

Back to the topic. Anyone have a Shorty they’d like to send to a new home?

Even if yours isn’t for sale, we’d like to see pics of yours for potential posting to our “Not For Sale” pages, where we showcase peoples’ Minis…

We kinda like it.

By the way, we once had an Elf at home that we were actually trying to sell, but our then-8-year-old son kept going outside and putting “Not For Sale” signs on it..

The event starts today and runs through Sunday, July 1st …

Going? We’re looking for your pics and stories…

Click Here to go to the event website or go to: www.mme2007.com

Here’s the official event schedule:

Thursday
12-4 p.m. – Registration
5-8 p.m. – Registration
8:30 p.m. – Evening Drive – Gather at Holiday Inn Express/Mainstay Parking

Friday
8-11 a.m. – Registration at Holiday Inn Express
9-4 p.m. – Kids Event Trip to The Lost Sea
9 -10 a.m. – Place cars on Concours field
10 a.m. – 1 p.m. – Concours
5-7 p.m. – Registration at Hospitality Tent
5-8 p.m. – Funkhana/Creeper Races
8:15 p.m. – Concours & funkhana Awards
9:45 p.m. – Movie

Saturday
7-9 a.m. – Charity breakfast at Texas Roadhouse
8-9:30a a.m. – Registration at Holiday Inn Express
9 a.m. – Rally Driver’s Meeting
9:30 – 1st Rally Car off
10 a.m. – Scenic Drive to McCord Farm picnic (for those who don’t wish to rally)
11:30 a.m. -Lunch begins/rallyists arrive
2 p.m. – Rally Awards/Classic Mini Brigade
3 p.m. – Panoramic Photo
7 p.m. – RC Car Races and awards
8 p.m. – Savid Vizard at hospitality tent
Fireworks Annual display by City of Alcoa, viewable from event site

Sunday
9:30 a.m. – Autocross Tech/Course Walk
11 a.m. – Tech Ends
11:30 a.m. – Mandatory Driver’s Meeting
12 p.m. – First Car Off
3:30-4 p.m. – Autocross Awards

Can’t make it to Mini Meet East?

Mini Meet West 2007 will be in Hood River, Oregon from July 10-12th.

Click Here to go to the event website or go to: www.mmw2007.com

Mini Mokes – with Summer upon us – are fetching $10k or so for decent ones.

With that it mind, I can’t figure out why this street-legal VW-powered dune buggy hasn’t sold for its $5,500 asking price. I think that maybe because our listing didn’t mention that it’s street-legal (rather than just a toy for the dunes or off-road), until this morning.

Has a professionally rebuilt engine with less than 100 miles on it.

If there was any space left in my garage for toys – I’d have it in mine. Uh, with my wife’s permission of course… Sigh…

By the way, if you have another interesting car that’s not a classic Mini, feel free to drop us a note about having it listed on that page…

Don’t know why we enjoy these so much…
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The owner/builder reports he has spent more than six years building it. No idea how many hours that works out be, but it’s a lot of hours wasted/invested on this one-of-a-kind (thankfully!) 1979 Mini pickup.

Among a bazillion custom mods are features such as a Suzuki Swift GTI 16-valve engine w/ 5 speed, half-cut “butterfly” doors, a smoke machine (smoke exits from the sides) and a full-on PC running XP software with a touch streen inside and a monitor in the rear.
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It’s on eBay UK again (after multiple previous tries), but the auction has closed with no bites at the minimum bid of 4,850GBP…

We can’t imagine why…

The idea of my new hobby was that – after we put our three boys to bed – I’d be out in the garage for a couple hours fiddling and listening to my favorite tunes. As it turned out, I didn’t get a chance to do much tinkering. So many people asked me how they could get a Mini of their own that my then-hobby quickly turned into a business – which, as it turned out, just added to my stress…

Anyway, one of my dreams had been to take my Mini completely apart – every nut, bolt and screw – and restore it, piece by piece. I haven’t yet been able to fulfill that dream – although I’ve commissioned a number of Minis built up that way, primarily from our network of overseas craftsmen.

A reader recently tipped me off to a great series of videos of someone doing just what I had dreamed of doing myself. And here they are:

Click Here to See Part One or go to: www.youtube.com/watch?v=9TBL5PSSYP8

Click Here to See Part Two or go to: www.youtube.com/watch?v=3wJiR8NHkiE

Click Here to See Part Three or go to: www.youtube.com/watch?v=bVfVxNImArQ

Video submission: YouTube username: “speedingorange”

It’s located in Windsor, Ontario, Canada.

I say it’s further proof of “Cabin Fever” – a malady mostly affecting folks who can’t otherwise play outside during the cold winter months…

What do you think, Eh?

I’m not sure what all the hub-bub is about, since it seems the bill only affects 1976-1991 vehicles, and only in that it requires annual inspections, rather than biannual (ie: every two years) smog checks.

Below is a “Legislative Alert” being put out by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA).

California Bill to Require ANNUAL Emissions Tests for Vehicles 15-Years Old and Older Passes Assembly; Moves to Senate

Legislation (A.B. 616) to require annual Smog check inspections for vehicles 15-years old and older has been approved by the California Assembly and has been sent to the Senate for consideration. The bill would also require that funds generated through the additional inspection fees be deposited into an account which can be used to scrap older cars. You may recall that in 2004 a new law was enacted in California to require the lifetime testing of all 1976 and newer model-year vehicles. Pre-1976 motor vehicles would remain exempt under A.B. 616. The bill has been now referred to the Senate Transportation Committee.

We Urge You to Contact Members of the Senate Transportation Committee Immediately to Oppose A.B. 616

A.B. 616 ignores the minimal impact vintage cars have on air quality.

A.B. 616 could entice vintage car owners into allowing these vehicles to be scrapped.

A.B. 616 ignores the fact that vehicles 15-years old and older still constitute a small portion of the overall vehicle population and are a poor source from which to look for emissions reduction.

A.B. 616 ignores the fact that classic vehicles are overwhelmingly well-maintained and infrequently driven.

A.B. 616 would increase costs by creating an annual inspection fee for owners of these vehicles.

A.B. 616 represents another attempt by California legislators and regulators to scapegoat older cars.

Please contact members of the California Senate Transportation Committee immediately by phone, fax or e-mail to request their opposition to A.B. 616.

The contact email for SEMA is ( stevem@sema.org ) if you’d like more information.

To track progress of the bill, A.B. 616 – as well as any other pending legislation – see the
Official California Legislative Information website or go to: http://www.leginfo.ca.gov

Okay, it’s not classic Mini-related, but it’s just too odd to let it go by.

Take one MINI. Add a couple rockets. Add a launch ramp. You do the math…

Click Here to See the Video or go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BMyV1SKanDU

It’s just 2:12 minutes long…

The Minis-only race put 50-or-so Minis on the track at once, in what I believe was a U.S. record.

This group shot was taken just prior to the race.

That weekend will forever be in MiniGuy’s memory – as well for those who attended…
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Reminds me of those who see you with your Mini and say, “What is that? Some sorta ‘CLOWN’ car?!?

The best reply I’ve heard so far?

“Yup, it’s been attracting them all day! In fact, you’re number seven!”

Well, this one only seats two…
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Unfortunately – we’re quickly running short of classic Minis to offer on that page.

Here’s where you come in.

If you have a Mini and just hate to deal with scammers, time-wasters, tire-kickers and picture collectors, we’d like to hear from you so we can help find a new home for your Mini.

Or, here’s another way you could help us – and all those looking to adopt a Mini of their own.

If you know of any classic Minis that might be for sale, please let us know – or refer them to us. We’re looking for all models and in any condition – whether project or pristine.

And, if your referral results in an addition to our site, we’ll reward you with some sort of priceless classic Mini-related trinket or something from our goodie box…

So, what are you waiting for?

Check out the cool series of renderings of how the basic Mini’s design becomes built up into a Mini…

And of course, see several clips of early Minis grabbing some serious airtime!
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Click Here to See the Video or go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11QTcjgecCk&NR=1

May be the most entertaining 3:09 minutes you’ll spend today…

Compliments of YouTube and one of our loyal readers…

Hurry, it’s on eBay UK as item # 160124729058

This Mini body shell is grafted onto a Suzuki SJ 410Q chassis, but it’s not quite finished. Among other things, it could use some much-larger wheels and tires….

According to the owner/builder, who figures it’s about 70% finished, “This is an oportunity to acquire a unique project which would work well as an off-road vehicle, or a promotional vehicle, or the coolest ride in the whole of Great Britain!”

Hurry, the auction ends in a day and the (one bidder so far) has already bid the price of ownership to 499 GBP…

Don’t know anything about it, but we like it…

While some would complain at the loss of another Mini, keep in mind that 5.5 million were made…
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This “Dubster” site is kinda neat. The idea is for people do take pics with “forced perspective,” which means they hold up something tiny and make it look like it’s full-size in the background.

Shown here is just one example, but I think it’d be cool if one of our readers took a pic using a classic Mini model or toy Mini and did the same.

How about it? Perhaps you could post it to that website and send us a link? Or send the pic itself and we’ll post it here.

Click Here to See the Dubster site or go to: http://www.dubster.com/cars/

Sure beats workin’…

This one pits a classic Mini against a “new” (BMW) MINI – in a chase reminiscent of the original “Italian Job” movie, the one shot in the ’60′s.

In the closing, host Jeremy Clarkson pats the MINI and says, “It’s a nice car – but it’s not an icon,” referrring to the classic Mini that remained true to its original design for 41 years…

Thanks to a viewer who reminded us of this one. Keep those pics, stories and videos coming…

Click Here to See the Video or go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BqCeoKTHFtM

James Garner is shown here with his ’66 Morris Cooper S, a left-hand-drive (LHD) model. This pic, taken in 1966, shows Garner and his Mini.

Of course, we wouldn’t want to drive just any old Cooper S, would we?

His Mini has a custom two-tone blue paint job, Webasto full pull-back sunroof, chromed external door hinges, flip-top alloy fuel filler, chrome exhaust tip and alloy wheels with chrome lug nuts and white-lettered Goodyears.

Garner’s rise to stardom began with the 1963 movie, “The Great Escape.”

A bit of trivia: His birth name is “James Scott Baumgarner.” (Isn’t the Internet great? I can come across as an expert in pretty much any field, including Hollywood trivia!)

By the way, an earlier feature on this page (Feb. 23, 2004) asked whether Steve McQueen owned a Mini or not. We later got responses confirming this, and somewhere we have pics of his Mini when it was on display at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles. When we dig those pics out – or someone sends us them again (please) – we’ll post them here.

The MiniGuy is 6’4″ and I can assure you my head doesn’t even contact the headliner! And yes, I have legroom too, even without the available seat bracket extenders…

Cute shot, anyway…

Click Here to See the Video or go to: http://www.miniguy.com/movies/mini.wmv

Thanks Bill C., of Glendora, California for sending it!

Y’all keep those pics, videos and feature ideas coming…

Swift reportedly holds the world record for the longest time on two wheels in a Mini…
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Thanks to all of you who are regular readers – and who have let others know what we’re doing here.

If you are new to this page, we typically update it daily with a variety of classic Mini-related news, features and pics that we hope you will find interesting.

Your submissions and comments are welcome – and very much appreciated!

Nothing really new there, but what’s noteworthy is the plethora of videos on YouTube. Just search for “Russ Swift” and sit back and enjoy the videos – there’s 281 of them!

Pictured below is part of a classic Russ Swift show – with his trademark car-up-on-two-wheels stunt – in a classic Mini.

We didn’t hear from him again for about a year, when he stopped by to say he realized he’d never get around to fixing it and would we be interested in it.

When we went to see it, we found it in surprisingly good condition, as shown in the pic. As it turned out, it hadn’t been in the garage for just 10 years, it was more like 23, as it had last been registered in 1983. Also, it wasn’t a true “S” but had a Cooper S engine, Cooper S (7.5″ diameter) brakes and, on the rear, a slapped-on Austin script “S” above a “Morris Cooper” badge.

And off it headed to its new home with the MiniGuy…

NOTE: While many are seeking the hidden Minis, please keep in mind that the cars have typically been sitting for some time and – like this one – will usually need substantial work to get them back on the road, particularly in a safe condition.

However, it’s always nice to dream of that elusive deal…

One customer told us his story.

It seems he was at a garage sale in Southern California, and noticed inside the garage a somewhat familiar shape, one covered with blankets and a variety of garage detritus (ie: a polite word for crap and junk). He inquired of the home’s occupants if he might take a look. With their permission, he uncovered a classic Mini in a somewhat tired-looking condition stuffed with stuff – and with cats living in it. Asking if they might consider selling it, he was told yes, he could have it – for $300.

Needless to say, he sprinted to the nearest cash machine, withdrew the money and ran back.

As it turns out, with only minor fiddling, it started and ran – and has done so for the past three years!

Here at MiniGuy, a significant number of our calls and website visitors come from referrals, and the rest typically find us through links on other automotive or Mini-related web pages or via search engines, including Google.

While I had a hard time finding my first Mini, that changed once I started driving it. I had people come up to tell me about the Mini that they had stashed away, or one they knew about, or they’d leave notes to that effect.

Once you have your first Mini, you’ll probably find the same to be true – and what could partially explain what we call “the unwritten law” that nobody is allowed to own just one Mini…

By the way, when you check our “Consignment – For Sale by Owner” pages, if you don’t see a Mini that meets your needs, please contact us. We typically have others available that aren’t yet added to the site.

We’re only too happy to help you find your first classic Mini, or your second, or your third…

While there standing in his garage with his late-’50s Cadillacs, he told me of many Minis he’d owned over the years.

What I found interesting is how he found them.

It seems he is a telephone company service person (ie: the politically correct, gender neutral name for “lineman”), and, in the course of his duties, spends time working high up on telephone poles. Up there, he can view backyards of many homes, and in some, he spots classic Minis – sometimes in forlorn, haven’t-been-used-for-some-time condition.

After work, he’d pay a visit to the homes to inquire if they might consider sending them to a new home. A surprising number said yes, and some were even willing to give them away if he hauled them off….

Sheesh – some guys have all the luck…

He told of a city in the western U.S. that he regularly flies in that – while in the final approach and low enough to see such things – he’s spotted a high-fenced yard with several classic Minis in what looks to be haven’t-moved-in-a-while condition.

He’s told me the city and on what side of the plane they could be seen from (just before landing), but he’s sworn me to secrecy until he’s had a chance to track them down and approach the owner…

The Man Who Lived By The Side of the Road

He sold hot dogs. He had no radio. He had trouble with his eyes so he had no newspaper. But he sold good hot dogs. He put up a sign on the highway telling how good they were. He stood by the side of the road and cried, “Buy a hot dog,” And the people bought. He increased his meat and bun orders, and he built a bigger stand to take care of his trade.

He got his son home from college to help him. But then something happened. His son said, “Father, haven’t you been listening to the radio? Business is terrible. The international situation is terrible and the domestic situation is even worse.”

Whereupon his father thought, “Well, my son has been to college. He listens to the radio and reads the papers, so he ought to know.”

So, the father of the son cut down his bun order, took down his advertising signs, and no longer bothered to stand on the highway to sell hot dogs. His hot dog sales fell almost overnght.

“You were right, son, said the father. Business is really terrible!”

And that looks like Big Al’s (former) Big Bus (April 12) in the background…
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This is where our “Consignment – For Sale By Owner” pages come in. Those pages are for posting those cars that are – in our opinion – interesting…

This ’58 Morris Minor panel truck is a good example of what we are happy to post on that page. Frankly, I haven’t figured out while it’s still here…. Dollar for dollar, this one’s the cheapest way to get a headturner, ready-for-car-shows cool car!

(Click on the “Consign2″ tab at the top or bottom of this page for this nice truck and other classic cars…)

Not a voiceover actually, but a call to be the voice of a classic Mini Cooper in a new racing video game under development by Microsoft.

Below is the email I received, then how I was able to help…

—–Original Message—–
From: (Sound Motorsports, Microsoft)
Sent: Friday, February 02, 2007 4:21 PM
To: miniguy@miniguy.com
Subject: Looking for a Mini Cooper in the Seattle area

Hi, Michael!
Hey, thanks for taking the time to talk to me this afternoon. Again, I am trying to locate a Mini Cooper that we could record for a racing game coming up for the Xbox 360 that features a ’64 Mini Cooper S. We pride ourselves on making the most realistic games, and using a car that sounds right is very important to us.

I think the ’64 Cooper S had dual SU’s, so that’s what I’m hoping to find. I don’t think it matters if it’s a 998, 1075, 1275cc, or whatever, as long as it sounds right. I am hoping that you might either know someone with a suitable car in the Seattle area, or at least know someone within the local Mini club (SAMOA) that I could make contact with regarding this.

Thanks for your help, Michael!
Sincerely,
[xxxx xxxxx]
audio content coordinator
sound motorsports
Microsoft Game Studios
—–END Message—–

No problem, I thought. I made a few inquiries and was able to locate my former personal Mini, which now, as it turns out, lives with its new owner in Seattle. A quick call later, and I had an eager okay from new owner Kim A., and put her in touch with the Microsoft guys…

Kim later emailed, “It went well. It was fun, and those guys were highly entertaining. It took about four hours, and the Mini performed like a champ!”

So, someday, when you sit down to play with your xBox 360, listen closely and you just might hear the voice of yet another classic MiniGuy Mini…

p.s.- If you haven’t seen/heard it already, here’s a link to a music video that featured a half-dozen classic MiniGuy Minis for the band Dishwalla…(Features, Mar. 4, 2004)

http://www.dishwalla.com/Video/Somewhere-HI.wmv

And here’s another classic MiniGuy Mini in a Target/Tide Detergent commercial…(Features, Mar. 15, 2004)

http://www.miniguy.com/movies/target_mini_ad.mpeg

Brigade awards will go to classic Mini owners, drivers and co-drivers who have made a transcontinental trip, East to West, North to South, (or vice versa), or a trip to any two Mini Meets West and East in the same year. Qualifying for membership in the elite group is also open to those who have made similar long-distance drives in an “A Series” engine-powered classic Mini (or Mini variant) in North America.

The group’s aim is “to encourage the preparation, use and enjoyment of the classic Mini and the fellowship of Mini owners in North America,” according to group founders Karl Strauch and Rick Higgs. “The motivation comes from our own long-distance travels in classic Minis, from those who have gone before us and for those whom we encourage to follow,” according to their joint announcement.

Members will receive a Certificate of Membership and Brigade grille badge for their classic Mini, a badge design incorporating a modified St. George’s Cross, the flag of England.

The initial Brigade members will be recognized at Mini Meet East 2007 in Alcoa, Tennessee, as well as at Mini Meet West 2007 in Hood River, Oregon. A significant list of qualifiers has already been identified, and the group is soliciting additional nominations.

“A classic Mini can be a reliable and enjoyable means of travel in North America, if suitably prepared and driven. The classic Mini is especially suited to the secondary roads that reach into the most beautiful natural places on the continent, where its superior handling is to be enjoyed and where its economy is realized,” according to group founders.

Higgs, 63, of British Columbia, Canada, currently drives a bright yellow Mk3 Mini fitted with a 1380cc power unit and gearing more suited for highway use. Towed behind is a unique, matching custom trailer built from portions of two classic Minis.

Strauch, of Wildwood, Missouri, counts among his many Mini journeys a round trip to Alaska, in a somewhat famous classic Mini dubbed the “Blue Goose” by the car’s owner.

After some thought, I got three more, and had them shipped from overseas. The first sold in less than two weeks – with no advertising – and soon left for its new home. Nothing very strange about that, but what was strange was what the buyer requested.

Billy R., a longtime Mini mechanic in Studio City, California, came, kicked the tires, only briefly looked it over – and announced he wanted it. Except, he didn’t want most of it. He wanted to give back the engine, transmission, exhaust system, wheels and tires, wheel arches (flares), front and rear suspension, and the brakes. All he wanted, he said, was a black Mini body – to build into what he wanted. It seems the first Mini he ever had was black. And that’s he had to have again.

Over the years, while running his racing suspension business – and his Mini repair and restoration business, Billy accumulated – or built – everything he’d want in his ultimate Mini. The one that would be a keeper. The one that would be his daily driver. He had already built a fast road 1380cc engine (with all the good stuff inside), and had mounted it on a reworked four-speed, four-synchro, rod-shift transmission. He had ready the coilover suspension, a downdraft Weber carb, performance intake and exhaust systems, including a twin-box RC-40 exhaust. He had the 12″ alloys, performance tires and the wheel arches he wanted, and he had the seats.

Two weeks later, he called to say the car was done, and to please come pick up all the other parts. And so I did, and saw what Billy built. And what he soon after drove up to Portland, Oregon, where he now lives. I caught up with him a few years later at Mini Meet West, held that year in Florence, Oregon.

Another Mini sold, another friend made.

Pictured here is his Mini, fresh from the port.

Shown here is a rather unusual bus, and it’s one that will definitely get noticed! I snapped this pic at East Meets West Mini Meet in 2004. It has cool Union Jacks and a motorhome interior, but what I like about it is those tail fins! (Another car I lusted after in high school was my buddy’s ’57 Chevy, with its big fins, but that’s another story…).

This behemoth bus now lives with its new owner in Texas, reports previous owner Al G., of Wainfleet, Ontario Canada. Al, better known as “Big Al the Mini Mover,” has towed many a Mini, including some behind this bus, in the 12 years he’s owned Minis. He’s found Minis local to him, but many he imports from the UK via Nova Scotia. Canadians have an advantage when it comes to importing vehicles, since its laws allow cars as new as 15 years (?) or older. In the U.S., we’re limited to 25 years old or older; in some states, such as California, it’s older than that.

If you are in Eastern Canada, or Northwestern U.S., and you can’t find a Minis that meets your needs on our website, give big Al a shout. I’ve never heard of anyone who’s been less than happy with what they got through him.

I first met Big Al at my first Mini Meet in 1999, in Colorado Springs, just a handful of months after I adopted my first Mini. I had two of my sons, ages 8 and 5 in tow, and I was a complete newbie – but everyone was very friendly. I asked Big Al lots of questions about the Mini he had brought; yet he had a lot of patience and was only too happy to answer my newbie questions.

He had towed down a “barn find” Mini that was an all-original, early ’60′s Mk1. It was one of those unmolested early ones that come up only rarely. Al almost apologetically showed he’d replaced the original water pump, but said he had another of the correct vintage, (or maybe had the original to be rebuilt?).

Several years later, when I had left my day job to become a full-time dealer, I had a woman in my showroom looking at a Mini pickup. It was her second trip to look at it, and had cash in to buy it. She then said she’d seen another truck advertised – but for more money – and I figured out it was one Big Al had, a light gray one. I told her I had seen it in Colorado, and that it was the nicest truck I’d seen, and well worth the (higher) asking price. She slipped her cash back in her jeans and headed home to buy it. If you ask me if Big Al’s a competitor, I’d explain that most of us dealers are more like associates, and work together as a network. If you speak with Big Al, tell him MiniGuy says hello!

Eric D. is shown standing beside his ’78 Mini, and behind him is Realy Ann’s silver/black 2003 MINI.

She’s currently adopting the (light) “Saxon Green” Mk1 Morris Mini off our “Consignment – For Sale by Owner” pages, this after we sent more than 100 pictures and read off all 8 pages of notes from our “inch-by-inch” inspection of the car earlier that day.

If you’d like to see it, it’s ID# AB3406.

With relatively few classic Minis in the area, owners are basically forced to associate with their British brethren (and sisters?), such as the Austin Healeys, Triumph Spitfires and the like that made the day’s trip. After a long winter’s hibernation, there are often mechanical “adventures” that turn up, but nobody broke down this time – a first for the annual outings!

Realy Ann has already shown the pics to all her club friends, who are eagerly anticipating the new addition to the club.

Note: For our regular readers, we always appreciate hearing about all your many Mini adventures, so please keep those pics and stories coming…

As a student at Van Nuys High School in the early ’70′s, there were a number of my classmates who drove Minis and Mini Coopers. As mentioned in an earlier feature (April 5), my longing for a Mini bloomed during this period, but alas, it was not to be. When I went shopping for my first car, my Father had rather strong opinions as to what I should be driving. “Get a truck,” he said, “and you’ll always find work!”

Rather unmotivated, I began my search for a truck, since he’d be fronting the money (as a loan, of course) for its purchase. One I looked at was a 1953 Chevy pickup – or rather two of them. Between the two, there was a complete truck. The guy wanted a whopping $110 for the pair of them, but I said I’d have to think about it overnight. Needless to say, they were gone in the morning. (And, don’t get started at what the ’53′s bring today!)

After a time, my brother and I came up with a plan.

We decided that a Chevy El Camino just might be slid under Dad’s nose, since it’s sorta a truck. We didn’t really tell him that was essentially a Chevelle SS with a large open trunk.

We found one for $425, and it went home with us. Or at least, after we jump-started it. And did so time after time, or push-started it because we didn’t always bring jumper cables. I still own the first set I finally sprung for.

Pictured here is a ’64 El Camino – a bright canary yellow one – pretty much exactly like what mine looked like back in my late teens, when it sported a hand-rubbed lacquer paint job. By my hands, of course. My wheels are a little different, otherwise this one’s its exact twin. I spotted it at a car show not long ago, and just had to snap a pic.

When I first became began earning my title of MiniGuy, I towed many a Mini home from the ports in my beloved El Camino. It’s been mine for 30 years, but it now sits forlorn – and in need of another restoration – in front of my home, where it’s a constant source of aggravation to my wife.

It doesn’t get driven much these days, since I tricked her into letting me buy my first Mini back in 1999 – or at least that’s her claim now. And the rest is history, as they say…

See, this one started and ended with classic Minis…

Growing up, I had a good friend, Cory W., who shared my madness for Minis, yet both of us went without. He once told me a story that has stuck with me all these years.

It seems that a neighbor kid of his had a great uncle, or so we decided.

This uncle had a Mini, a Cooper S I believe, that he offered to his nephew – for free.

But, there was a catch.

His uncle felt very strongly that kids should know all about their cars, and how to work on them.

Here’s his deal. The kid – I can’t remember his name – would get the Mini for free, providing he dismantle it all the way down to the last nut and screw, then put it back together. If he did, it was his to keep.

I never heard if he did it or not, but I’ve never forgotten the story. Sheesh, some guys have all the luck.

Pictured here is what I’d probably have ended up with, along with bunches of boxes of parts that somehow had become “extra”…had I tried to accomplish the same thing…

Here’s a pic from a website I occasionally visit, www.WreckedExotics.com, a rather unorthodox site dedicated to displaying pics of crashed exotic and expensive cars.

There’s also a “Weird-Funny” section, which is where I found the one pictured here.

On the site, I had seen a classic Mini shown in an unusual accident, but I’m not finding it just now in a quick look.

In the meantime, this pic shows how one of our friendly California Highway Patrol officers ended up parked in an unusual fashion. According to the website, the CHP car struck the Datsun pickup as the driver was making a left turn into a private driveway.

Check out the site – but – you may find it hard to leave….

http://www.wreckedexotics.com/newphotos/weird/weird461.shtml

When I locate that classic Mini pic, I’ll post it here. If you have other classic Mini-related “oops”-type items, drop us a note!

Shown here are just a few of the Minis that showed up, from as far south as San Diego and as far north as Seattle.

Following the gathering at our showroom and some workshops and BBQ, the Minis headed out for a long drive on the curvy roads in the region, with several stops along the way. A variety of other events were part of the Saturday schedule as well .

The following day, the cavalcade of Minis traveled over to the British Car Show hosted by the Central Coast British Car Club (CCBCC), an event that takes place this year on Sunday, July 22 at Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard. An “autojumble” (aka: British parts swap meet) is slated to be held in conjunction with the event.

For more information, see: ( www.centralcoastbritishcarclub.com )

If you haven’t been to a CCBCC show in awhile, please note the event is no longer held at the Ventura harbor, just so you don’t miss it…

How about it, anyone up for another two-day “Mini Mini Meet” in conjunction with the with show? Drop us an email if you’d like to be involved…

In a nutshell, in the 1960′s, Mini Cooper S’s were used as police cars in the UK and in Australia, and perhaps in other countries. There’s much more to the story, and we’ll be telling it soon…

We’ll also be showcasing a genuine one that’s made it to a new home in the States.

Longtime Mini enthusiast Chuck H. owns that one that he picked up after seeing it at a past Spring Thing event in Florida.

We’ll be covering more on the topic – and showing Chuck’s police model in a future article…

I was on the road to do an “inch-by-inch” inspection of this “Saxon Green” Mk1 Mini that’s in amazing orginal condition.

New pics – about a zillion of them – and lots of info from the inspection will be posted to our “Consignment – For Sale by Owner pages, most likely early in the week.

We don’t expect this one to last – as
we’ve already got someone in Idaho who’s asked us to hold it until she can get a full report, and a Southern California gentleman behind her!

If you have a Mk1 Mini in very original condition – or know of one that might be for sale – please let us know as we’ve a long list of people looking to adopt one from their current owners….

Shown here is what I’m told is the first large-scale gathering of classic Minis in the U.S., an event that took place in 1973, in Reno, Nevada. I’m told participants came from far and wide, including a now-friend of mine from Seattle.

The last Minis sold in the United States were mid-’67 models, when Mk2 models briefly appeared. After some six years, the classic Mini community was already building.

My first Mini (see article Feb. 11, 2004) was apparently there too, according to its long-time previous owner. No trailer queen – it was driven there, I’m told.

I’m not sure how the word got out so far and wide, but this gathering marked the start of what we now call “Mini Meets.”

As mentioned in a previous article or two, this year’s “Mini Meet West” will be held in Oregon, and “Mini Meet East” will be in Tennessee.

Kudos to all the host Mini clubs – and a score of volunteers – who make these memorable events happen!

For a larger image, Click Here or go to:

http://www.minimeetwest.com/images/mmw73pic.jpg

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And, if you know more about the ’73 meet, we’d love to hear from you…

And here’s to all who so patiently answered my endless questions when I was a newbie…

This letter came today…

—–Original Message—–
From: ((R.W., a serviceman in Germany))
Sent: Wednesday, May 02, 2007 8:20 AM
To: miniguy@miniguy.com

Greetings from Germany!

I am a US service member stationed overseas. I currently own a 1996 Rover Mini as well as a 2002 Mini Cooper S and am looking to buy a classic mini. My question to you is about price vs. value.

I have the opportunity to purchase an 1973 Innocenti Mini Cooper S 1400. I’m told it has been completely restored and customized, has a 120HP-Engine, and that all modifications were carried out professionally, with the bills to back it up/prove it. I am told that the total cost for the restoration/mods is/was over $21,000. The body is straight, there have apparently been no crashes and there is no rust on the car. I am also told that the car was only used for show, not for racing and that the engine has only 1.000 km since overhaul.

I love Mini’s – but I am a bit beyond my experience when it comes to knowing if this is a great deal or not. All of my mechanic friends are mechanically impressed with the car, but they do not really have anything to do with classic Mini’s and are unsure of which models are which – and which models command the higher price ranges.

Can you give me any tips? I like the car (see the pics I’ve included), but the price tag ($15,600 USD) seems a bit steep. I can afford it, but I do not know if this is a great deal or not. I am sort of on the fence between being a Mini “Purist” and a Mini “Fun”ist.

Help!!!! Any suggestions/tips/thoughts would be more than welcome. Thanks in advance, – ((R.M.))

Hello and thanks for the message, and the five pics you sent.

re: value
It really depends on what you are looking for. The car is highly modified/customized. For most classic Mini buyers, there are too many features that are undesirable. On the other hand, if you want a very unique Mini, you couldn’t build one for anywhere near that price.

For me:
1.) Racing buckets are a pain for everyday use.
2.) The roll cage makes entry and exit a real inconvenience
3.) I can’t see the belts, but I’m guessing they are four-point harnesses. If so, the rear seat is probably unusable.
4.) The body is de-seamed, or at least in the back. If it’s not done extremely well, it will crack the bondo/paint. If it’s really, really not done well, the car can basically start cracking in half because the strength of the external seams isn’t there.
5.) There are no bumpers front and rear. That’s illegal for a street car in many areas. Forget about parallel parking anywhere, it will just get beat up with no bumpers or grille guards to protect it.
6.) Left-hand drive (LHD) is generally a plus for American buyers, but a negative for purists or potential buyers in RHD countries (UK, Japan, New Zealand, etc. etc.)
7.) A ’73 Mini cannot be legally registered in California; you’d have to check regulations in whatever state(s) you plan to use it.
8.) The color means it will likely be more difficult to sell. It’s orange – one of the toughest colors to sell. I’ve sold about [x x x] classic Minis, so I can vouch for that.
9.) Originality: The fact that it may have been a genuine Innocenti will make no difference whatsoever to a collector, or your average Mini enthusiast. It might has well have been built using a basic Mini…

Overall, if it were me, I’d pass on it.

But — if you want a car that will definitely put a silly grin on your face, get lots of attention, and hold its own in a car gathering or car show, and, like all Minis, corner like it’s on rails – then factor that into your decision.

re: price?
That’s for you to decide. What will $15,600 buy? Maybe a Hyundai, Saturn, Fiat or something else that’s boring. But those you can drive anywhere, anytime, listen to the radio when the car is running, and you don’t have to carry tools…

Let me know how it goes.

Thanks, I look forward to hearing from you…

p.s.- thanks for serving our country!

-Michael “MiniGuy” Lewis

This one went to Washington a while back.

How’s the project coming along, Tim?
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This “gull wing” MINI is just plain wrong – in so many ways.

Of course, classic Mini owners might say that with more than one million MINIs already on the road (see April 10), one “destroyed” in a million is just a good start…

Hey, that reminds me of the old joke.

What do you call 1,000 lawyers on the bottom of the ocean?

A good start….

p.s. – It was an attorney who told that one to me, so sue him – not me – okay?

Why rare? Because normally when you see the race car, it’s just a green-and-yellow blur!

What’s particularly noteworthy about the MINCOMP Mini is that it’s built utilizing a purpose-built, space-frame chassis and still maintains the front-wheel-drive (FWD) configuration that the classic Mini is so famous for! It’s not one of those rear-wheel-drive (RWD) or rear/mid-engined caricatures of a classic Mini…

Bill’s shop, MINCOMP, in Costa Mesa (SoCal), is one of several excellent repair/restoration/race build shops that we at MiniGuy highly recommend.

If you’d like a list – or know of a shop that should be on the list – please drop us a note.

And, when you see Bill – tell him MiniGuy says hello!

This is a “postcard” he sent of his Mini while at a racetrack event some years ago.

If you know how he may be contacted, or you are Shelton, w’d love to have you drop us a note…

Come ta Poppa, My Little MINIKINS!
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While the “Scamp” Mini-based “kit car” below (see April 24) left a pretty bad taste in my mouth, this Mini’s a sweet way to help forget that rotten taste…

This one’s on eBuy in the UK, and the bidding’s hot – With 7 days left, it’s already at GBP 2,827.77 (Approximately US $5,663.46), and it hasn’t hit reserve yet.

Check it out, it’s on eBay UK as Item Number 110118857216.
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Oops, I meant no disrepect for “little people,” but that just didn’t rhyme with “MiniGuy”…

What do you think, perhaps it should be: [or for] “Mini Folk”…?

On eBay UK, it’s Item Number 110118857216.

Pretty much wipes out any thought of sharp cornering, eh?
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We’re doing a little housekeeping, so here’s just a few…
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This 4×4 looks big next to the Mini, but it’s actually a Suzuki Samurai, the little pipsqueak of the “four-by” world. The diminutive (that’s tiny, if you need to look it up) little jeep has developed a sort of cult following.

Rick B. brought his in and told us of trompin’ the big boys in sand and in the steeps, or so he says, because of its lighter weight and nimble handling.

Don’t know ’bout that, but I’m sure this one gets lots of attention.

Rick B. found a new home for it, then picked up a project Mk2 Mini (ie: ’68-’69) that he plans to stuff a Honda VTEC engine in, (so it will put out 160hp or so).

This shot’s taken at our old showroom in Ventura, where we generally had 15 or so classic Minis and Mini Coopers on display. Sort of Disneyland for Mini folks – and I got to go to “work” there every day….

I couldn’t help but be reminded of that story when I saw Rick’s little warrior – a Samurai warrior no less….

Then of course, that kinda reminded me of taking a standard Mini with an 850cc up the Conejo Grade on my way home. I’m told it’s one of the steepest freeway grades in the state.

While an 850cc Mini will cruise at freeway speeds on the flats, you’ll be over in the truck lanes on your way up that grade. All the while, your little Mini is saying, I think I can, I think I can – in a British accent, of course…

This one’s called a “Scamp,” and is arguably the ugliest of the kit-cars ever made. This one’s for sale in Nevada. Perhaps it’s only fitting that it be banished to a remote desert…

Oops! I’m letting my personal opinions take control of my keyboard. Shame on me! But of course, this piece is going to end up Mini-related too – just see below…

And, ”whatever I want” happens to include the pics, tips and stories that y’all are sending along to me!

Keep ‘em coming…
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Hey, we were able to get Minis and an inference to the recent April 15 tax deadline into this one feature! (For our out-of-country readers, that’s the deadline for people in the U.S. to file/pay their taxes with the Infernal Revenue Service, oops, make that Internal…).

Alright, back to the topic. In many foreign countries, import taxes on motor vehicles were so high that automakers would send “CKD” cars into such countries, for assembly there, almost as if they were a “kit car.”

CKD, as it came to be known, meant “Completely Knocked Down.” The UK factory would send pretty much all the parts in crates, on pallets and in boxes and baskets to assembly plants in the other countries. Okay, not really baskets, as that would make them “basket cases,” meaning a project car that will likely never see the road again. Well, few will, at any rate.

Oops, off-topic again.

CKD Minis were sent to a variety of countries, including Australia, New Zealand, South Africa – even countries as close as Ireland – and perhaps dozens of others, I’m told. (Please fill me in if you know of others, or can tell me more).

Also, in some countries, a certain percentage of Mini parts had to be locally manufactured, which helps explain why things like “Australian” doors came to be. The so-called Australian doors are highly sought-after, because they are external-hinge Mk1-type doors but – instead of sliding windows – the windows are roll-ups and there’s a “wind wing” too. For some reason, in other countries, what we call a wind wing is called a “quarter light.” Don’t ask me why. Sorta like “boot,” “bonnet” and “hood” for what we call a trunk, a hood, and a convertible (ie: canvas or vinyl) top.

Anyway, the point is that real Minis did come as kit cars – of a sort.

Which also reminds me. It used to be said that – it you had enough money – you could pretty much make your own Mini using all new parts obtained from the factory. One could order bare body shells, doors, bootlids and bonnets, and pretty much all the other parts, even complete, ready-to-bolt-in assemblies such as rear subframes. The subframe assemblies typically would have all suspension parts, brakes, brake lines and drums fitted and were ready to roll. The complete body shells were available for purchase for many years, but that production halted some years ago. Many Mini folk are hoping that the new owners of the original tooling will begin to produce new shells again, particularly the Mk1 shells.

Wow! That must have great to get a brand-new original shell, even in the various Mini models. For example, I know of one brand-spanking-new Mini pickup body shell that someone has socked away for when it will be built up – someday…

By the way, there’s a ground-up, built-from-new-parts Mk3 Mini coming up for sale on our site soon. The expert Mini restorer/builder started with a genuine, factory-new crated shell, one of the last that were available for private purchase – and has the pics to prove it!

For more on CKD Minis, in this case, ones built in Australia, see the feature below dated April 8, “Australian Mini-Maker Meets MiniGuy.”

The Vespa car also features “suicide” doors, which open from the front.

Minis never had them, unless you count Jason’s creation (see April 13.)
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Here’s the rear view from behind, which also shows the full-length sunroof extending down the back. Some classic Minis came with sunroofs, or have had ones added later.

See, another couple references to Minis!

Did we mention the Vespa is made in Italy? Well, as it happens, a number of Minis were built there under license and badged as Innocentis. We’ll be featuring “Innos” in the future…

P.s. – If you go to www.dictionary.com and look up “arrivederce,” it defines the Italian word as “until we see each other again; good-bye for the present.”

Until we meet again…