Expert Buyer ‘ Square nose’ Mini

It’s time we had more love for this little bundle of fun. Here’s how to assess what’s on offer

PROJECT

CHOOSE CAREFULLY

It’s a sellers’ market to some extent because most decent projects have been sanpped up. But you’ll find them if you look hard enough.

LOOK FOR ANY ROT

The square front Mini is structurally similar to its cuter cousin. Subframes, floors, panel seams and B-posts all rot.

REPLACING METAL

Complete new shells – including the nose– are available from British Motor Heritage, so nothing is beyond hope.

USABLE

CHECK ITS HISTORY

All square-nose Minis had Hydrolastic suspension until July 1971; maintenance is prone to being ignored, so check the history file closely.

MECHANICALS

The oily bits are much the same as in other Minis, but with easier under-bonnet access. Check A-Series engines for clean oil and lack of emulsion under the oil filler cap.

LOOK INSIDE

Interiors suffer but can be rejuvenated. The gauges and dashboard were different for the Clubman, and one or two parts are costly.

GOOD

CHECK THE SHELL

A solid Clubman is among the best-value routes into classic Mini ownership, but it’ll be a money pit if the shell isn’t strong throughout.

BE PICKY

Haggle over tidy examples with split CV boots, old tyres or tired engine mount rubbers, suggesting inadequate mechanical care.

TEST DRIVE IT

Good Minis left standing may suffer hidden woes ranging from seized slave cylinders to driedout fuel pump diaphragms. Test drive throroughly.

CONCOURS

1275GT COSTS MORE

The bold 1275 GT has been overshadowed by the Cooper S, but its fans are increasing. A Group 2 historic racer is currently on sale for £29,900!

IS IT MODIFIED?

There are all sorts of excitingly tweaked examples out there, although some are aesthetically questionable. Mint examples in factory-specification are much rarer and more desirable.

QUALITY MATTERS

You’ll need to judge the quality of restorative work carefully. Watch out for panels with poor alignment or layers of old welding.