1969 Austin Mini Cooper MKII

Alec Issigonis' friend John Cooper, owner of the Cooper Car Company and designer and builder of Formula 1 and Sports Cars, saw the potential of the Mini for competition. Issigonis was initially reluctant to see the Mini as a performance car, but after John Cooper appealed to BMC management, the two men collaborated to create the Mini Cooper, and the Austin and Morris Mini Coopers debuted simultaneously in 1961. Some six years later, the Cooper MkIIs appeared and were more refined without diluting the out and out fun of these amazing little cars.The overall production figures of the Mk II were only just behind the earlier cars.Offered here is a beautifully restored Austin Mini Cooper MkII finished in the classic combination of Tartan Red with a Black roof and interior trim. The registration document reveals that it has had only three previous owners and still carries its original Reading registration number. The recent restoration appears to have been very comprehensive with regard to the body shell and all mechanical components and both the engine and gearbox have been rebuilt. The original chassis plate is present in the history file and its original 998cc engine is still in situ. Launched in 1967, the Mk II Coopers are regarded by many, in hindsight, as the most attractive of the Mini Cooper evolution with the squared rear lights, larger rear window, and new grille, but still retaining the sliding windows and one or two early features so characteristic of the original Mini. The look is further enhanced with the slightly wider vented steel rims. In possession of a new MoT and ready to be enjoyed, this iconic little car is a must for any Mini Cooper enthusiast or collector