The original Mini is undoubtedly a 1960s British icon, voted the second most influential car of the 20th century, behind the Ford Model T. Designed by Sir Alec Issigonis, the Mini utilised a transverse engine, which, when combined with its front-wheel drive layout, allowed 80% of the car's floorpan to be used for passengers. Take a glance at an original Mini and even today, you'll be amazed at the utilisation of space within such a compact car. The Mini was manufactured at Longbridge and Cowley plants, and had three major UK updates; the Mk. II, the Clubman and the Mk. III. Within these were a series of variations including an estate car, a pick-up and a van. Initially, Minis were marketed under the Austin and Morris names as the Austin Seven and Morris Mini Minor, until Mini became a marque in its own right in 1969. The creation of the Mini branding in 1969 simplified things to Mini Van and Mini Pick-up and in 1978, the commercial vehicles were renamed 'Mini 95' to reflect the 0.95 ton gross weight of the van and pick-up and an 'L' pack was introduced in 1979. The 'L' pack consisted of houndstooth cloth centre sections to the seats, front carpets, a passenger sun visor and additional soundproofing.

This delightful Mini was sold to its current owners through Historics in 2020. It has been the subject of a full body and mechanical restoration carried out by its previous owner and is presented in its original colour of Brooklands Green with black trim. This version differs from the standard Mini Van by having a larger 998cc engine as opposed to the 848cc for the standard vehicle. The seats have the houndstooth cloth centre panels, which complement the green paintwork nicely and present very well indeed. The restoration work is extensive which included new brakes, suspension, new tyres with refurbished wheels, new exhaust, rebuilt engine and gearbox, new lights and rebuilt seats. The bodyshell was repainted inside and out and the van has covered very few miles since its rebuild. With all this considered, this is one of best examples of the Mini Van we have seen and comes with a Heritage Certificate and an original brochure. Consigned by Charles McCreery

Lot details
Year: 1981
Make: Leyland
Model: Mini Van
Registration: LFT 54X
Chassis No: SAXXLV10010781290
Odometer: 68,246

* Previously restored to its original colour of Brooklands Green
* Subject of a recent full-body and mechanical restoration