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To many, its designer Alec Issigonis included, the notion that the Mini might have a future as anything other than basic transport was anathema, and the idea of a high-performance version was laughable. One man though, saw it quite differently. Racing car manufacturer John Cooper already knew quite a bit about tuning BMC's A-Series engine, he was running the company's Formula Junior effort at the time, and a test drive in a prototype Mini convinced him of the car's competition potential. The result, launched in September 1961, was the Mini Cooper, a car that offered a size/price/performance package that was nothing short of miraculous. The Mini Cooper soon established its credentials as a rally and race winner, and the stage was set for even faster versions. The first of these, the 1,071cc Mini Cooper 'S' of 1963, took engine development a stage further and provided the basis for the 971 'S' and 1275 'S' of 1964.
This fabulous Mini Cooper S was built in Australia by the British Motor Corporation Limited under licence from BMC. Interestingly the body and suspension were assembled in Australia but the Cooper S 1275cc engine and gearbox were assembled in the UK and shipped out to Australia. The Cooper S of this year were fitted with wind-up windows, twin fuel tanks, unique trim and hydrolastic suspension. This example was shipped to New Zealand and registered on 1^st January 1966 making this a very early example. The car covered some 100,000 miles in New Zealand and stayed there for 35 years, as recorded on the paperwork. In 2001 a full restoration was carried out, including stripping the bodywork, refabricating any metalwork as necessary and repainting the car. The engine and mechanicals were stripped and rebuilt to factory specifications. The engine and body match the Australian Cooper S register. After completion the car was sold to a collector in the U.S. where it remained for a number of years, prior to being sold to a Canadian gentleman who had a passion for British cars. The Mini was used sparingly in Canada, mainly for car meets in the summer months. It was then purchased by the current vendor, a respected and knowledgeable classic car enthusiast, who brought the car to the UK. He has had the car detailed and re-trimmed the dash as well as fitting a rev counter, the car has also been tuned on a rolling road. Supplied with a V5C registration document, a history folder and a jack. Presenting in delightful condition this exceedingly well travelled Morris Mini Cooper S looks exceptional value especially given its rarity and wow factor.

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