Model History

The Mk1 was the first version of British Motor Corporation's iconic Mini. It is characterised by its sliding windows and external door hinges; this distinctive two-door car was designed for BMC by Sir Alec Issigonis. The Mk1 was manufactured at the Longbridge and Cowley plants in England and was produced between 1959 and 1967.

The production version of the Mini was demonstrated to the press in April 1959, and by August several thousand cars had been produced ready for the first sales. The Mini was marketed under BMC's two main brand names, Austin and Morris until 1969, when it became a marque in its own right. The Morris version was known to all as "the Mini" or Mini-Minor.

Creating such a spacious interior was possible within a comparably small bodyshell because the engine was mounted transversely, driving the front wheels via a gearbox which was uniquely incorporated into the sump of the engine. Engine and gearbox thus shared the same oil, which was in response to the 1956 Suez crisis and the fears of future oil shortages. Interestingly, the original engine size proposed for the Austin Seven was 948cc, as used in the Morris Minor and Austin A35. However, Leonard Lord, chairman of BMC thought that the 90 mph top speed was excessive and thus reduced the engine size to 848cc to gain a more manageable speed of 72 mph.

Equipment

Tweed Grey / Old English White paintwork, Red vinyl interior, 4-speed manual transmission, Cooper S style steel wheels, Electronic ignition, Wing mirrors, Deluxe body trim, P700 headlights, Custom sisal mats, Lucas reversing lamp, Gear knob extender, Adjustable seat mounts, Original Morris key ring, Bespoke fuel bib, Heritage certificate.

Exterior

Looking every bit the 60s icon, this charming Morris Mini 850 presents in superb condition. The beautiful Tweed Grey paintwork maintains an excellent shine and is uniform throughout. The contrasting old English white roof picks out the matching wheel colour perfectly. On close inspection, amazingly, the original factory tags can still be found in the footwells and engine bay. All the brightwork is free from pitting or damage. Having never been modified or molested, with an original factory bodyshell and matching numbers, this a great opportunity to acquire a true British classic in arguably the prettiest colour combination.

VIEWINGS WELCOME BY APPOINTMENT ONLY /// ADDITIONAL PHOTOS AND VIDEOS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

Interior

Inside, the Tartan Red seats and carpets have been retrimmed in recent years and present in immaculate condition. The accompanying heritage certificate confirms this is the original colour combination, as it rolled off the factory line in 1966. A full set of custom sisal over-mats have recently been purchased, which really set the interior off nicely in our opinion. The headlining appears to be original, as does the steering wheel and gear knob. A heater was also specified from new. Handily, a set of adjustable seat brackets are fitted, providing a far better driving position than the standard position.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

Lifting the bonnet reveals a very tidy engine bay. In recent years the engine was removed, cleaned, refurbished, and now presents in excellent order throughout. On close inspection there are no oil leaks to be found. Recent work includes an electronic ignition kit, tune up, new wiring loom, clutch kit, engine mounts, water pump, front ball joints, suspension bushes and a fresh oil service. The 4-speed gearbox operates perfectly with no crunches. A gearstick extension has also been fitted for an easier change. The engine starts up with ease, idles up to temperature correctly, and is simply a joy to drive on the open road – especially in the corners!

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES

The Mini sits on recently purchased Cooper S style steel wheels, which are 1 inch wider than the standard wheels (all of which come with the car, including the hubcaps). The wheels are wrapped in Falken tyres all round, these were purchased in 2018 and have driven minimal miles since. Recent work includes new front brake drums, rear wheel cylinders, fluid change and adjustment.

History File

This Morris Mini 850 was first registered in July 1966 and supplied by Wellsteeds of Newport. Remarkably the first owner kept the car for 52 years! Thereafter, it has been in the possession of just two enthusiasts. The V5 states just 2 former keepers. The accompanying history file comprises of a heritage certificate to confirm the vehicles details, an original BMC leaflet, V5C registration certificate, various invoices for replacement parts and an original 1960s Morris keyring.

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