28th Jul, 2024 12:00
The Gold Cup Classic & Performance Car Auction
1973 Innocenti Mini Cooper
***NO RESERVE*** Very collectible and fully restored Italian-built Mini Cooper export
Registration - ABW 330M
Chassis No. - 549854
M.O.T. - Exempt
Odometer - 11,042 km
This superb Innocenti Mini Cooper Export 1300, which is being offered with no reserve is a real rarity that will appeal enormously to Mini enthusiasts the world over. The vendor has this LHD car for 16 years, in which time it has benefitted from a “first-class” full nut-and-bolt restoration. This saw them “take it to another level” with a series of expertly-configured upgrades to create what they believe to be one of the most special original Innocenti Minis in the world. ‘ABV330M’ has an upgraded 1,310cc engine with Aldon electronic ignition and a specialist hand-made cooling system that includes a bespoke heater matrix, oil cooler and twin-core radiator. It also has Swiftune trumpets and an LCB three-branch exhaust manifold feeding into a Maniflow exhaust. The vendor says this is a car built not simply for pootling to the shops but, thanks to its extra power, “jumping in and crossing continents”.
This 1973 Innocenti Mini Cooper Export 1300’s suspension has been expertly improved to handle its extra power as well. It has Koni dampers all-round, and adjustable Hi-Lo suspension. Handling is further improved by a negative camber kit. A big box folder of history helps confirm the many upgrades that have helped engineer what is a very special car indeed. ‘ABV330M is finished in the wonderfully original 1970s colour of Pescanero, with a grey and black vinyl and cloth interior. Is packed with delightful period details that mark out Innocenti Leyland Minis from home market British Leyland models. These include badges and logos, front grille and boot pressing, desirable ‘Export’ badges on the front wings, and other touches that identify this as a bespoke Mini built in Italy. ‘ABV330M’ also showcases the bespoke Innocenti Mini interior, with a horizontally-arranged six-dial instrument pack featuring gauges carrying lettering in Italian. Distinct eyeball air vents, door trims and door pockets are different from British Mini too, while Innocenti even fitted a bespoke heater system and steering wheel. Overall, the vendor describes this car as being in ‘excellent’ condition throughout, making this a rare opportunity for aficionados to obtain an ultra-desirable example of the Innocenti Mini Cooper Export.
Innocenti was established in the 1930s and was originally famous for its Lambretta scooters. In 1961, it struck a deal with BMC to build the Mini under licence, with the original Innocenti Mini 850 introduced in 1965. The cars were originally assembled using CKD kits of parts shipped to Italy from the UK, before production of locally-sourced shells in Italy began. Mini fans can spend hours detailing the differences between UK and Italian cars. Production continued for 10 years and the Innocenti Minis were a huge success, although further plans to work with Innocenti were halted when BLMC was effectively nationalised in 1975.
In summary:
- Collectable Innocenti Mini Cooper Export 1300
- Subject of a full restoration to a very high standard
- Extensive history documents a fascinating and ultra-rare model
'A Buyer’s Premium applies to the Hammer Price of this Lot if your bid is successful, as per the following; Motor Cars 12.5% + VAT (minimum £150 + VAT), Motorcycles and Bicycles 12.5% + VAT (minimum £150 + VAT); Registration Numbers 15% + VAT (minimum £50 + VAT); Automobilia 15% + VAT (minimum of £5 + VAT).'
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Auction: The Gold Cup Classic & Performance Car Auction, 28th Jul, 2024
This auction of classic, performance and supercars took place on the final day of the prestigious Oulton Park Gold Cup weekend.
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