Introduction
Darren Rungasamy
The Mini Cooper is nothing short of joy on wheels.
When first unveiled to the world in 1959, it soon became clear that the Mini had potential for competition. Formula One builder and racer, John Cooper was one of the first to seize that opportunity, and soon got together with Sir Alec Issigonis to produce one of the most inspired pieces of automotive marketing; the Cooper badge. Debuting in 1961, these Cooper badged Minis were distinguished by their racing-tuned engines, twin-SU carbs, a close ratio gearbox and front brake discs. All in a small car, and still very much a novelty at the time. The MK2 Mini Coopers, which debuted in 1967, didn't deviate much from the original, save from a wider rear window, a reworked grille, and minor cosmetic changes to help distinguish the models.
The Mini Cooper established an impressive competition history but also sparked off a whole generation of small sports cars, making the Cooper the car to beat. Though this may have been accomplished, nothing came close to the charm and simplicity of the Mini Cooper. The truth is there will never be another car like it.
Registered in 1969, this Morris badged Mini Cooper 1000 MK2 is finished in an authentic Tartan Red colourway with a black roof. It has seen the benefit of a Minisport engine and gearbox, along with documentation of a 2019 restoration amongst ~£10,000 worth of invoices over the last ~6 years. Fitted with several stand-out modifications, including upgraded front seats and a full-length Webasto sunroof. All round, with the smooth hydrolastic suspension and improved comfort and performance, this makes for an enjoyable touring machine, easily keeping up with modern traffic, it retains much of its original look and feel and has to be considered a superb opportunity to own a stunning and well-restored Mini Cooper.
This listing was written from information supplied by Darren after meeting David the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.
