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Curated Auction

1981 Austin Mini City Cabriolet

At a Glance

Full Restoration & Soft Top Conversion in 2013 | Long MOT | Beautifully Finished | Perfect Summer Car | Receipts ~£5k | Low Reserve

  • Mileage~35,836 on the clock
  • Transmission4-speed manual
  • Engine1.0-L
  • LocationHook, Hampshire

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more

CURATED AUCTION

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CURRENT BID£1,000
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AUCTION LIVE

ENDS IN: 56 Days 12 Hr 51 Min 51 Sec

CURRENT BID

£1,000

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Video #2

Introduction

Darren Rungasamy
Editor and Photographer

A convertible Mini is an inherently friendly car - it breaks down the barrier between the driver and the world.

Few cars in history have captured the world’s imagination quite like the original Mini. It changed the blueprint for small-car design, proving that immense capability could be packed into a compact, clever package. But the true magic of the Mini is found in its driving dynamics - that legendary, go-kart-like agility that turns even the most mundane journey into an event.

This particular example takes that experience to the next level: a beautifully rebuilt convertible that offers the pure, unfiltered joy of open-top motoring. Whether you are navigating winding country lanes or enjoying a sunny weekend drive, this Mini transforms every mile into a sensory experience that modern cars simply cannot replicate.

Originally registered in 1981 as an Austin Mini City, this car was restored to a high standard between 2012 and 2013, during which it was converted into a bespoke convertible with a few subtle touches that link it back to its original incarnation. Finished in pale blue with a refreshed black interior, the car also benefits from an Airey Tuning tune-up.

Formerly part of a private collection used for charity events, this Mini is accompanied by over £5,000 in invoices covering its restoration and ongoing maintenance. It comes with two sets of keys and its original owner’s manual. While exempt from road tax and MOT testing, it carries a current MOT valid until June 2027 and was last serviced only 200 miles ago. Featuring a cleverly engineered roll bar for added rigidity, this unique Mini offers an unfiltered connection to the road and is guaranteed to raise a smile wherever it goes.

This listing was written from information supplied by Darren after meeting Rod the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Video #2

Meet the owner

There is something wonderfully honest about a convertible Mini.

I acquired the car in November 2020, and it has been part of a private collection, kept in a heated garage, and used only for charity-related events and shows. While it has only done 350 miles whilst in my ownership, it runs really well and is great fun to drive, particularly on a sunny day.

Sadly, after many years of enjoying my hobby of collecting and restoring classic cars, I am heading towards retirement, so I am having to dispose of some of my collection, which is why this unusual but delightful Mini is for sale.

Rod will be happy to answer any questions about the car in the comments section below.

Rod
Vehicle Owner

Ask Questions

CONTACT OWNER
EXTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Exterior

Finished to an excellent standard, it features several 1960s details that enhance its classic appeal on the road.

Wheels and Tyres

The 10-inch deep-dish Cooper-style steel wheels are in good condition and feature smart chrome hubcaps.

The front and rear of the car are fitted with Falken tyres showing a spec of 165/70 - they are older than 15 years old. While they retain plenty of tread, the front pair show minor sidewall wear but are not flagged as MOT advisories.

Please take time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels, and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old.

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Bodywork

The exterior is in impressive condition, featuring good panel alignment and no visible body damage. Following an 18-month restoration completed between 2012 and 2013, the car maintains consistent shut lines. Both passenger doors operate smoothly, supported by sound hinges with no signs of sagging. Additionally, the integrated roll bar is well-engineered and provides excellent structural rigidity.

The car’s underside is solid throughout. While some components show minor signs of age, the floor pans, wheel wells, boot floor, and engine bay remain in good condition. The subframes are also in good order with no reported concerns. The rear subframe was fitted in 2012.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our high-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view of what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

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Paint

The pale blue paint is finished to a high standard, providing good coverage, consistent tone, and an attractive lustre. While the overall presentation is strong, there are a few minor imperfections to note: some small chips and slight under-paint blemishes on the offside front wing near the headlight and A-pillar, a hairline crack in the paint on the nearside front wing seam, and some minor age-related wear to the gutter trim above the driver’s door.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these high-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

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Glass and Trim

All glass, lights, and lenses are in good condition with decent seals. The exterior trim is properly mounted, including all chrome fittings.

The chrome work is of a good quality, although the door handles show mild signs of age.

The bumpers are flush with the bodywork and are in presentable condition.

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INTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Interior

The interior is trimmed with high-quality materials that still retain the original simplicity and feel.

Seats and Carpets

The interior is smartly finished with black seats featuring white piping; these remain in excellent condition with no notable wear.

The carpets and rubber overmats are clean and well-fitted throughout the cabin.

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Dashboard

The dashboard, facia and instrument panel are in good condition and use high-quality materials sourced from Ashley James Autotrim, having been part of the restoration in 2013.

The dials, controls and switches are tidy, and all are said to operate as they should.

The door cards, interior trim and roof lining are in good order.

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Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The steering wheel and gear lever are in excellent shape.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO
Video #2

Mechanics

Expertly tuned by the classic specialists at Airey Tuning of Alresford, the engine unlocks the full potential of the 998cc unit.

Engine and Gearbox

The engine fires up immediately and runs smoothly with no hesitations or unwanted noises.

During our visit, the engine remained free of any fluid leaks.

The engine bay is well-presented, with tidy hoses and ancillaries, despite some minor surface wear on select components. The engine has been professionally tuned by Airey Tuning of Alresford, which included a carburettor jet replacement. Performance upgrades include a Weber 32/34 carburettor kit paired with an RC40 exhaust manifold and system.

The 4-speed gearbox operates without any reported issues; the clutch was replaced around 2,000 miles ago and offers a good feel and a positive engagement point.

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Suspension and Brakes

The ride is smooth, free of banging or squeaks. The car absorbed the surface with no adverse effects on the driver. The rear shocks were replaced with Kayaba gas items as part of the restoration.

The car brakes evenly, with no unwanted noises - they saw an overhaul in 2023 and have seen continuous attention since their restoration.

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The Drive

Powered by the iconic A-Series 1-litre engine, this car prioritises a nimble, go-kart-like driving experience over raw speed. Its lightweight chassis and responsive power delivery make it an absolute joy to drive on the road, while also offering remarkable fuel efficiency.

The engine pulls smoothly and evenly throughout the rev range. While the car truly shines in urban environments, it also handles dual carriageways with ease - a testament to the high quality of the body conversion. The chassis felt remarkably stiff, free of any rattles or creaks while cruising at 50 mph. While engine noise is naturally more prominent at these speeds, the car managed sustained cruising without any hesitation or mechanical fuss. It corners with precision and tracks straight under braking, living up to its reputation for direct, wobble-free handling.

Oil pressure readings were noted at 75 psi upon a cold start, stabilising at an appropriate level during driving, and idling at 25 psi once warmed. Rod has been very satisfied with the consistent oil pressure and engine temperatures, reporting that the vehicle has been entirely dependable during his ownership.

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Electrics and Other

The soft top is in excellent condition and maintains a tight seal. All fasteners are fully functional, and the clear vinyl windows are free of any marks or discolouration. For open-top motoring, the entire hood assembly can be completely removed from the body.

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Video #2

History and Paperwork

The car underwent a full restoration in 2012/2013 and has been finished to a pleasing standard.

First registered in August 1981 as a 998cc Austin Mini City saloon, the car was completely stripped to a bare shell and rebuilt as a convertible by a previous owner during an 18-month restoration between 2012 and 2013. It comes with over £5,000 in receipts documenting the rebuild, with the bulk of the spending dedicated to restoration parts from Mini Spares. There is also a significant collection of invoices from Bill Rawles covering servicing, steering adjustments, brake work, and a new clutch assembly. More recent maintenance includes a new ball joint, cam side plate follower gasket, and a service, followed by a brake refurbishment and a new CV boot in 2023. In the last 3,000 or so miles, it has been serviced 4 times.

Rod also tells us that he has personally actioned oil changes on the car, however, there is no invoice to support this work.

It comes with two sets of keys and its handbook. It was last serviced in 2021 and has covered approximately 200 miles since. As a historic vehicle, it is exempt from both road tax and the annual MOT requirement; however, it does hold a current MOT certificate valid until June 2027.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment of the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bids, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
19-06-2026 MOT 35,826
13-06-2023 MOT 35,789
08-11-2021 MOT 35,665
14-05-2021 Oil/Filter change
21-07-2021 Service
17-07-2020 MOT 35,301
08-08-2019 Service
01-08-2019 MOT 35,214
07-08-2018 MOY 34,615
26-07-2017 Service 34,206
30-03-2016 Clutch kit
17-02-2016 Service
10-08-2015 MOT 32,602
09-09-2014 MOT 32,588
01-05-2013 MOT 32,528
VIEW ALL
Key Details
  • Model Austin Mini City
  • Transmission 4-Speed Manual
  • Reg. Date 03-08-1981
  • CC 998
  • Mileage ~35,836 on clock
  • Colour Pale Blue
  • Interior Colour Black
  • Chassis # SAXXL2S1010786102
  • Engine # 99H791PZ524590
  • Last Service 14-05-2021
  • Restored Yes in 2012/2013
  • MOT Yes Exp: 18-06-2027
  • MOT Exempt Yes
  • Road Tax Exempt Yes
  • HPi Clear Yes - all clear
  • Former Keepers 14
  • Tyre Brand Falken
  • Tyre Age 2009
  • # of Keys 2
  • LHD or RHD RHD
  • Visited Yes
  • Sale Type Private
  • Owned ~6 years
  • Key Feature Bespoke Cabriolet Conversion
  • Vehicle Registration LRD 870X
  • Driver’s Side Right
  • Fuel Type Petrol
  • Body Type 2-door Convertible
  • Auction ID 3798
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VIEW ALL
Video #2

All Images

Exterior

Interior

Mechanics

History and Paperwork

All Videos



Vehicle Location

Hook, Hampshire

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    Insurance Quote


    Average annual insurance premium for a Mini like this is £TBC via our trusted partner ClassicLine.
    GET AN INSURANCE QUOTEAnd get 10% off when you mention us.

    *Quote is based on a garaged vehicle in CV32 5QY (Leamington Spa), travelling 3,000 miles per year, 1 driver who is 45 years of age and is free on accidents and convictions – valid Summer 2026.

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    Vehicle Location

    Hook, Hampshire

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