Login Register Sign up for the GRM e-newsletter

Readers’ Rides:
Austin Mini
Added on May 28 by Keith

It’s non-threatening. Chicks dig it. Kids get the point and laugh at it. It’s sooo cuuuute. It’s also RHD for that extra little chuckle.

But underneath, it’s got a bit of an attitude. There’s a 1293cc engine built by Rob Walker Engineering, all snorty and full of torque. The suspension has adjustable arms and gas shocks, while braking is handled by Minifins in the rear and 7.9” vented rotors and the cutest little four-pot calipers up front. Wheels are Minator 10” with Yokohama A008s.

The body is Sandy Beige with an Old English White roof, and it’s been fitted with Group 2 arches like the old Monte Carlo winners. There’s a Mk2 Cooper S badge on the front and a vintage Cadillac badge on the back.

Okay, nice spec sheet. But really, it’s just a big ball of giggles. If you can drive a classic Mini without laughing, you’re dead. Corner entry speeds are ludicrous, while the engine growls and the wheels scrabble for traction on exit. It’s a riot.

Imported from the UK where the original owner was a little old lady that put on about 1000 miles a year. When I picked it up, I drove it 1500 miles across the US in two days.

Comments

dextervw:
sick! I love it and hate you for owning it (it should be in my barn) ;-)
May 29, 2008 1:14 p.m.
turboswede:
Beautiful, simply beautiful.
May 30, 2008 2:16 p.m.
Volksroddin:
I would like to get one of those but I feel alittle crap in my 1970 beetle. good job with “The Austin (powerd) Mini Cooper!!
Jun 3, 2008 5:10 p.m.
mattmacklind:
Is that what they call Tilt-Shift photography? Nice pic of a cool Mini.
Apr 28, 2009 3:28 p.m.
f86sabjf:
I like the photo almost makes the car look like a toy in a model diarama.
Nov 19, 2009 8:55 a.m.
You must be registered and signed in to comment.
More photos

Like this Austin?

14 votes

You must be registered and signed in to vote.

Save & Share:

See more: