Rover Mini

ENGINE 1275cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 63bhp@5500rpm TORQUE 70lb ft@3000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 85mph 0-60MPH 13.2sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 32-40mpg TRANSMISSION FWD, 4-speed auto MoT 12 months from sale ODOMETER 54,149 miles

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

This Japanese-spec Mayfair has the final incarnation of the SPi 1275cc engine using the distributor-less MPi block with coil pack and side-mounted radiator; a compromise due to the inclusion of air conditioning. It starts without fuss and accepts drive smoothly enough, although first gear just gets everything rolling. The auto ‘box works well, with no jerky gear changes, and it’s quickly up to speed with no knocks or rattles. It’s ideal around town, emphasising the Mini’s nippy virtues, but becomes noisy at motorway speeds. The handling feels familiar, with direct steering, surefooted suspension and strong disc brakes.

BODYWORK CHECK

The cream over Tahiti Blue metallic combination looks smart, especially with the chrome trim. The finish on this example is good apart from a small dent in the offside corner of the front bumper. There are minor paint blemishes to the rear of the offside front wing and the black plastic gutter trim is missing two finishing clips. Factory deflectors are fitted to both front windows and the alloy wheels are in good condition, with no signs of curb damage. Floorpans are protected with factory underseal and panel gaps are uniform, with colour-coded wheel arch trims that fit correctly. The light lens and window seals are uncracked.

HOW’S THE INTERIOR?

The ‘Chevron’ cream halfleatherette seats and matching cream door cards are scrupulously clean with no evidence of damage or excessive wear. The aqua blue carpets also show minimal wear, but the roof lining looks a little loose in places. The burr-walnut dashboard is inlaid with an assortment of black dials, all of which operate correctly, but the lacquer coating has started to detach and crack on the passenger side beneath the glove box.

UNDER THE BONNET

The engine bay could be improved visually with a little outlay. The slam panel contains several chips that could be touched in, and while the engine bay shows no signs of fluid leaks, it would benefit from a clean and detailing and the rocker cover could use a fresh coat of satin black. This Mayfair has travelled 5000 miles since it arrived in the UK in 2014 and recently had a full service, rust prevention treatment, five new Falken tyres, brake pads and a battery.

THE CCW VIEW

The last two years of Rover Minis saw various ‘Special’ models; the Japanese market remained buoyant with the options list becoming market standard. Air-conditioning and the final 1.3i engine make the last JDM Minis highly desirable. This one’s an ideal everyday classic.