1971 Mini Cooper S MK3
Vehicle details
A nice restored Flame Red example of the MK3 - an old advertisement from Julien Sumner (dealer) - see the original advertisement here: https://www.juliensumner.com/vehicles/mini-cooper-s-mk3
This is the 8th MKIII Cooper S on Classic Register. At the time this one was advertised the seller made the following comments:
"This home market Cooper S was purchased by the last keeper back in 1994, and then almost immediately was given to the renowned Mini engine tuners Richard Longman for both an engine upgrade and gearbox rebuild along with various other performance enhancements. In fact the accompanying invoice and spec sheets demonstrate it was turned to a little pocket rocket with something approaching 110bhp on tap.
It was then actively used by this major enthusiast in conjunction with 2 other Minis until 2014 when after 20 years of continuous use meant some TLC was needed.
Duly entrusted to Brian Slark, who like 'Longman' is another ex-Downton man for a complete engine rebuild. This time bored to 1293, with fully balanced new pistons, a ported and polished stage 3 head with high lift rockers plus a Swiftune SW5 cam and more.
New subframes were fitted and at the same time the suspension was also treated to a rebuild and upgrade, now dry with fully adjustable Spax dampers front and rear including adjustable bottom arms for camber. A maniflow long centre branch exhaust with a period correct RC40 silencer has also been fitted along with its refurbished and original 4 1/2 J rims shod with new Dunlop's. The resulting works makes for a cracking unit with massives of mid range torque, not forgetting a wonderful engine/exhaust note too.
Furthermore, the car was then completely stripped and wherever needed the shell repaired and then beautifully repainted...the end result really is the best I've ever come across on a Mini, the panel fit is first class as is the Flame red paint too.
The standard and virtually unblemished blue vinyl interior remains, including all original glass, with the only concession to noise reduction being the fitment of modern Armaflex insulation under the bespoke Wilton carpets, both of which help reduce NVH.
Evidently the engine and suspension was re-assembled by Slark but in all other areas the renowned 'Mini man' Paul Wilson has been hard at work rebuilding all other parts of the car. It's covered circa 500 shake-down miles since being completed plus a couple of appearances at Goodwood!
Both significant time and money has been spent here to produce an excellent modified car albeit with a completely standard original look. The finished product must represent one of the best to come to market in recent years and certainly will allow somebody to enjoy many years of exciting Mini motoring."