Lot 223: 1965 Austin Mini Cooper S 1275 Mk I

Few cars in competition have fuelled the imagination like the giant-killing Mini Cooper, the combination of diminutive size, outstanding road holding and punchy power often running rings around the opposition. Launched in March 1963, the 1,071cc Mini Cooper S was the ultimate Mini, at its heart a much higher specification engine than the plain Cooper's 997cc unit, together with slightly larger but much more efficient front disc brakes. The increased potential of the S was quickly demonstrated by Rauno Aaltonen's outright win on the 1963 Alpine Rally, followed by Paddy Hopkirk's 1st place overall on the Monte Carlo, 3rd on the Tour de France and 4th on the RAC. A few months later, in January 1964, the 997cc Cooper was replaced by the 998cc model, and by March 1964 its big brother became available with two new engines, the 1,071cc Cooper S being discontinued in August the same year. The limited production 970cc S was aimed purely at the 1,000cc class in race and rallies, an area in which it was to excel. It is the larger 1,275cc model, however, that is best remembered and with it Timo Makinen won the 1964 Tulip Rally as soon as the 1,275cc model had been homologated. Presented in excellent restored condition, this 1,275cc example has the correct 9F-SA-Y engine with twin SU carburettors, correct twin fuel tanks with separate twin fillers and the correct 120mph central speedometer flanked by smaller oil pressure and water temperature gauges. Purchased by the vendor in 1989 from a collector in Rome who had acquired the car in the late 1980s from the dry climes of California, it is also thus a rust-free example. The subject of restoration in recent years, the latter including a professional re-paint and complete refurbishing of the electrical system, including the alternator, starter motor and entire wiring system, it is finished in red with a white roof and with the original red, grey and gold brocade interior trim which is in very good condition. Supplied with a certificate from Rover Group confirming its original build details, it comes complete with new chrome bumpers and re-chromed bumper over-riders, new chrome headlight surrounds, new headlights and new Dunlop 145-SR10 section SP9 tyres on original and optional white 4 inch reverse-rim wheels. This most sought-after of Cooper S models, which runs extremely well and looks great, would be an ideal entry for the many historic road events held throughout Europe. Italian registered, please note that its registration plates must be returned after sale to the vendor.Cette voiture a été restaurée de date récente, avec nouvelle peinture et renouvellement du systme électrique. Elle apportera a son nouveau propriétaire l'opportunité de participer a des courses historiques nombreuses, Documents de circulation Italiens.