1965 MORRIS MINI TRAVELLER
ENGINE 848cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 37bhp@5500rpm TORQUE 45lb ft@3450rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 70mph 0-60MPH 24.3sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 32-51mpg TRANSMISSION FWD, four-speed manual MoT March 2022 ODOMETER 50,595 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
This Mini starts on the button, drives brilliantly and the little four-cylinder engine feels peppy and eager. It idles well, does not smoke, rattle, hunt for revs or over-run when switched off after a drive. Water temperature and oil pressure are good but while the steering is light without feeling wayward and the car does go where it is told, there is a slight pull to the right. The gearbox feels tight with a precise clutch biting point and each gear engages without issue. The brakes work well and the car stops efficiently and quietly.
BODYWORK CHECK
The bright red paintwork on this comprehensively restored Mini is in superb condition. The wood is also in great shape; a small split on the passenger side rear has been repaired professionally and is nothing to worry about. The chrome bumpers, grille and trim pieces are in fine shape with no pitting or weathering. The steel wheels and hub caps are equally shiny aside from a few small dents. Tyres are evenly worn Marshal KR11 steel radials with plenty of tread left. We could find no rust on the bodywork or underneath and on the chassis.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
As impressive as the outside. Having benefitted from new carpets in 2004, the floor space is clean, dry and practically unworn. The matching painted dashboard is undamaged, the vinyl-covered seats and door cards are in excellent condition and the headlining hasn’t sagged. The car comes with near-new rubber overmats to help preserve the outstanding overall condition of the interior. What little switchgear there is works as it should and the boot space is as tidy as the rest of the car.
UNDER THE BONNET
This car is mechanically excellent with the engine especially impressive. The bay is clean and tidy and the little A-series motor looks good in its factory-correct green paint. The bulkhead looks solid, as do all of the nooks and crannies where water can sit and fester. Suspension componentry looks to be in good condition throughout and this is evidenced by how well the car sits and handles. This particular Traveller has obviously been well maintained and regularly serviced and maintained.
THE CCW VIEW
With excellent visibility, a strong and healthy engine and great bodywork, this Mini could easily be used as a practical everyday classic. There’s plenty of room for passengers and luggage and it’s a characterful car that’s a joy to pootle about in. The car inspires confidence thanks to its mechanical fortitude and low miles and you can be safe in the knowledge that it will continue to please for many more miles to come.
PROS Rare now, fully restored, fun to drive
CONS Slight steering pull to the right
BUY IT FROM RFH Classics, Manor Farm, Meppershall Road, Upper Stondon, Henlow, Bedfordshire SG16 6LJ. 01462 338755, rfhclassics.co.uk