1997 MINI COOPER
ENGINE 1275cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 62bhp@5500rpm TORQUE 70lb ft@3000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 92mph 0-60MPH 12.2 sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 26-42mpg TRANSMISSION FWD, four-speed manual MoT April 2020 ODOMETER 49,682 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
The engine starts without any hesitation and sits at a healthy idle after coming up to temperature quickly without overheating when pushed. It is free-revving and delivers brisk performance; it certainly feels faster than the official figures would suggest. The suspension delivers the tight, exciting handling that defines the marque and the direct steering makes it a joy to chuck into corners. The brakes, clutch and gearbox feel generally strong but there is a slight crunching when changing into second, which would seem to suggest a synchromesh issue. None of the rubber suspension cones or bushes appear to be degraded.
BODYWORK CHECK
The bodywork is unmarked, having been re-sprayed in the past six months. The inner sills were replaced in 2014 and an inspection underneath and under the carpets reveals rust-free floors and chassis. The chrome is generally excellent with only slight pitting to the headlight surrounds. The exhaust system is in excellent condition, and while there is a little scuffing to the alloy wheel edges in places, they are in good condition overall. Tyres are a mix of Hifly HF201s and GT Radial Classiro tyres, but all have ample tread and appear to be wearing evenly.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The interior impresses overall, but the steering wheel and gear knob are a little threadbare in places and the seatbelts are somewhat discoloured. The dashboard veneer is also splitting and cracking in a couple of places, most noticeably around the edges of the main instrument cluster. Having said that, the seats, carpets, door cards and roof lining are in great shape and there is no evidence of any
water creeping in. All of the electrics, gauges and switchgear work and the boot area is clean, dry and free of corrosion.
UNDER THE BONNET
Although free from rust and standing water, the engine bay is a little dirty and there is a small oil leak from the valve cover – it probably just needs a new gasket. There are no fluid leaks from the block itself and no evidence of any cylinder head gasket issues. Fluid levels are where they should be and the engine does not smoke or generate any worrying noises.
THE CCW VIEW
Rust is the biggest issue where these perennial classics are concerned but it would appear that this particular example has evaded the dreaded tin worm and is in lovely condition overall. Typical Mini handling and performance make it bags of fun to drive and although there are a couple of small issues to address, it is much cheaper and easier to fix a few mechanical foibles than it is to have to deal with rampant corrosion. Worth following up.