1964 Morris Mini Cooper 998

Father of the Mini, Alec Issigonis was firmly against the idea of a performance version of his new baby, despite several long evenings of animated discussion with his good friend, F1 guru, John Cooper in the Royal Oak. However, after JC appealed to BMC Management, Issigonis' concerns were disregarded and the two good friends eventually cooperated in creating what rapidly became and still remains a legendary little motor car. The first cars used a 997cc twin-carb A-series, changed for a short-stroke 998cc unit from 1964. Front disc brakes were standard and Mini-Coopers stood out thanks to their two-tone paint schemes and special grilles. Speeds of around 90mph may not have been all-out fast, but the Cooper's handling brilliance turned it into a potent race and rally tool.

The car offered here is a 1964 Morris Mini Cooper 998cc, manufactured for the UK home market on the 13th October 1964 and dispatched on the 5th November 1964 to Parkside Garages Ltd. in Coventry. This very original example still wears its Coventry number plate, whilst retaining its original chassis and drive-train (supported by inspection, corresponding paperwork and a BMIHT Certificate).

It was discovered by a previous owner back in 1979, during a business trip to a farm in Kent. Purchased on the spot to prevent the farmer's sons 'rallying' it around the fields, it soon became apparent that it was in very sound order. Over the ensuing years, the owner stripped it right down, replacing the Hydrolastic suspension with Alex Moulton's dry rubber system which was re-introduced to the Mini a few years after this one was made. Painted Red and White when purchased, the car was repainted in its original combination of Tweed Grey and Old English White, and remains in standard specification, including the original interior, with the exception of wider vented wheels and a sports steering wheel.

In the history file, there is a Heritage Certificate, some MoT certificates confirming the indicated mileage, as well as a selection of DVLA paperwork and a number of invoices for recent work. There are also some entry forms (and the odd trophy) for the many Classic Car Shows in which this cracking little Mini Cooper has shone. Some recent work carried out includes refurbishment of the original wheels, new brakes, a new battery, new chrome trims, a full service and a fresh MoT. The vendor informs us the car is in excellent mechanical condition and drives superbly.

Those of us old enough to remember these cars when they were first introduced, will recall how achingly desirable they seemed at the time, and even now our children see them as being archetypically cool 'Sixties'. Red with a Black roof and Green with a White roof were the most common choices, however, Justin de Villeneuve and Twiggy had a Tweed Grey car with a White roof, which says it all really.

This 1964, 998cc Mini Cooper is in excellent all round condition and is as much fun to drive now as it was in period. Have a look at this super little car and let yourself be captivated by its charm and honesty. It might be like getting together with an old friend from 1964 and finding them just as you remember them.