1961 AUSTIN MINI
A look at the earliest examples of the original Mini show just how attractive functionality can be and, as with the 1959 and 1960 examples, this 1961 car had a non-pretentious honesty that clearly pleased new-car buyers, including the Thames Ditton buyer of this car. Here was a very tidy example that wasn’t concours but was extremely smart inside and out, as well as in the engine bay and the boot. Replacement wings had been fitted by the second owner, who had bought the car in 1988, plus a re-paint, which meant it had stood the test of time. Panel fit was good and the interior, re-upholstered in the original material, was an absolute delight. Offered without any reserve, it was a pretty smart buy.