Registration - UJL 83S

Chassis No. - XL2S2-491981A

M.O.T. - Exempt

Odometer - 43,038

Though it now wears 1275 GT badges back and front, this attractively-presented Mini actually began life as a 998cc Clubman with automatic transmission. However, at some point in the 1990s the original drivetrain was supplanted by the 1275cc engine and manual gearbox from a Metro, and the V5 updated accordingly. Maintenance within the last 12 months has included the replacement of the radiator, coolant hoses, thermostat, exhaust manifold, battery and seat belts. Finished in a pleasing shade of blue that’s teamed with black interior trim, the car has also benefited from the addition of a bolt-in rollover cage, 6x10inch JBW Revolite alloy wheels shod with Yokohama A032R semi-slick tyres, and a pair of bucket seats. The vendor informs us that the car ‘drives nicely and is solid, though will need some attention to the floor before too long’. In summary, he classes the bodywork as ‘excellent’, the engine transmission and paintwork as ‘good’, but the interior as ‘below average’. He believes the displayed mileage of 43,038 is correct for the car (though not, of course, for the engine), and notes that many of the apparent nine former keepers were in fact the same person transferring ownership to his father every time he was deployed by the army.

‘At last – a comfortable Mini’ was Motor magazine’s take on the 1275 GT/Clubman at its introduction in 1969. The saloon version of the newcomer had been penned by ex-Ford stylist Roy Haynes as a replacement for the Riley Elf and Wolseley Hornet, while the related estate car was intended to succeed the established Countryman and Traveller. However, a change of plan saw both round and square-nosed Minis produced concurrently, until the Clubman/1275 GT range gave way to the Metro in 1980. A total of 110,673 1275 GTs and 275,583 Clubman saloons were produced all told.

In summary:

• Upgraded from a 998cc auto to 1275cc manual gearbox car

• Features a selection of performance upgrades

• Recently treated to a number of replacement parts