Sold1969 Morris Mini
UPDATE: Seller reports it’s GONE, GONE, GONE to its new home!
Note to distant enthusiasts: While this Mini is located in the San Francisco Bay area, contact us for details about having a thorough, independent mechanical evaluation performed by an area Mini specialist, along with information on transport quotes for door-to-door delivery nationwide. Also, for your protection, appraisal and escrow services available.
This 1968 Morris Mini is a genuine Mk2 model, so it still has the doors with external hinges and sliding windows. As a Mk2 model, the grille is a bit larger than the Mk1′s distinctive “moustache” style, and the small oval taillights are now larger and more rectangular, the same size and shape as all Minis built from late 1967 to 2000 when classic Mini production ended. (Mk2 taillights were two-colored, red and amber, and did not yet have the white reversing lamps of the later models.)
It’s right-hand-drive (RHD) steering – just the way it left the factory, and, as some say, as all proper British cars should be! If you must, a conversion to LHD is relatively straightforward, since the speedo remains in the center and the Mini has all the holes and mountings to put the steering on either side. (Contact us for more details).
Upgrades:
While this Mini’s exterior retains its stock appearance, it has been upgraded to a 1275cc engine and Cooper “S” front disc brakes (7.5″ diameter) to replace its stock drums. For better performance, the engine is upgraded with a single SU carb on a low-restriction alloy intake manifold, with a performance header and exhaust that’s quiet, but still gives a healthy exhaust note.
Under Bonnet:
The upgraded 1275cc engine was professionally rebuilt 10k miles ago, at cost of $5,200. (It’s reportedly a transplant from a later 1275GT model.) The four-speed, four-synchro transmission works well. Clutch replaced 3k miles ago. (service records available on request). The original “hydrolastic” suspension (ie: “wet suspension”) is in good working order, so car rides very smoothly.
Driveability:
While even the stock Mini 850cc engine was freeway-capable, the 1275cc gives a healthy advantage in acceleration and can run comfortably at 70 mph without really breathing hard! The “S” disc brakes mean a substantial increase in stopping power, and with less maintenance than original drum brakes.
While the odometer reads nearly 98k miles, the Mini’s major components, including engine and brakes, have already been replaced, which – at least theoretically – means the Mini should require only typical service and maintenance for quite some time. Tires are in excellent condition. Seller reports consistent fuel economy of 30-35 mpg (but most Mini drivers aren’t too concerned about that, preferring spirited driving!)
Interior:
The Mini’s grey vinyl interior retains its stock appearance; the front seats have recently been recovered. Inside door releases are early-style pull cables, rather than handles. Rear seats have original upholstery, but it’s getting a bit tatty (see pics). Carpets are black and in good condition. A small tachometer added below the parcel shelf is the only non-stock item in the interior.
Exterior:
The exterior looks completely original. The light blue paint (a sort of grayish blue)is in good condition and shows well. The exterior paint was redone in 2010; had prior repair work in 2005 to remove rust and fit new sills.
Floors, boot floor and other common areas where rust may typically be found are reportedly solid, yet there’s evidence of prior rust patching at front of rear valence, behind right wheel opening (pic available).
There are some small paint drips under left headlamp, and the chrome plastic trim in front of the right rear wheel has an uneven joint (see pics). Unlike a lot of Minis, there’s no visible exterior rust. While not finished to a concours level, this Mini looks clean, nice and presentable.
Note: Although the pics show one mismatched wheel cover (ie: hubcap), a correct replacement will be supplied.
California title and current registration.
Located in Redwood City, CA 94062
Redwood City is in the San Francisco Bay area on the peninsula, about 30 miles below San Francisco, or half-way to San Jose.
[ID# 68LIGHTBLUEMK2 ] Asking: $8,500.
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.
Vehicle Details: