Registration - XRO 505X

Chassis No. - XLV10010763704

M.O.T. - Exempt

Odometer - 31,093

This charming 1981 Mini Van was acquired by the vendor in 2013, and is offered fresh from a ground-up restoration. The vendor says they spent around £15,000, including a rebuilt engine, full bare-metal bodywork, paint and re-trim that includes all-new brightwork. It was a “real labour of love” and all invoices and receipts are included. A 998cc Mini, ‘XRO 505X’ has an odometer reading 31,093 miles and is described simply as being in ‘excellent’ condition throughout, including engine, transmission, electrics, bodywork, paintwork and interior. As with all Mini Vans, this 1981 car retains features from 1960s' Minis, including the sliding side windows and hollowed-out door panels with roomy stowage compartments. It has a ‘three dial’ instrument binnacle (rather than the more basic single dial of the Mini Van 850) and unpainted dashboard crossmember. It even retains external door hinges, while desirable touches include a fresh set of quality Falken tyres for the 10-inch wheels.

The 1959 Mini needs no introduction; it is arguably Britain’s most iconic car ever. The Mini Van was introduced just a year later, in 1960, based on the longer Mini Traveller estate chassis. As it was classified as a commercial vehicle, with a quarter-ton load capacity, it carried no sales tax and was cheaper than the Mini saloon. In order to cut the cost of production, it featured a simple stamped steel front end, instead of a more costly grille. It remained in production virtually unchanged until 1983, with more than 520,000 being built.

In summary:

• Fully restored 1981 Mini Van
• “A real labour of love” with around £15,000 spent on restoration
• Many period touches to please Mini aficionados