Lot 046: Austin Mini Cooper Monte Carlo 1.3i

From its heyday in the 1960s, the Mini had gone into something of a decline by the 1980s and new owners Rover resorted to a bewildering array of special editions to try and keep the sales figures above water. However, the re-launch of the Mini Cooper in 1990 brought about a genuine revival of interest in the brand, particularly in Japan. The new Cooper initially had a 63bhp 1275cc carburettor engine but an improved fuel-injection version was soon introduced in 1991. This particular Mini Cooper is one of a limited edition of just 200 fuel-injected cars produced in 1994 to celebrate the 1964 Monte Carlo Rally where Paddy Hopkirk and Henry Liddons took their Cooper S to an outright win. Available in red or black, it had special alloy wheels, four front fog lamps and Monte Carlo decals. Inside there were half-leather seats, custom doorcards and a walnut dash with white dial instruments. This car has had just three owners, the second of whom owned it for 12 years, and has covered a warranted 17,500 miles from new. Always garaged, it is currently taxed and MOTd and is said to be in excellent condition throughout.