1968 Morris Mini Cooper S (MK1)
Vehicle details
This Cooper S appeared on bringatrailer.com in early May 2017 - passing in at $27,000 (USD) (approx $36,500 AUD). One of several Australian Spec Cooper Ss that have made their way over there. The following comments were made at the point of sale:
"This 1968 Morris Mini Cooper S is an Australian-built example that retains its original 1275 inline-four and 4-speed manual gearbox. The car was reportedly sold new to Ray Gulson, a car dealer and racer based in Canberra, Australia. It was imported from Queensland to Southern California in 2002 by The MiniGuy and has had three subsequent owners since. The seller acquired this RHD car six years ago and has driven it approximately 1,000 miles since. Finished in Lake Green with a Snow White roof, the car has been fitted with Minilite wheels and fender flares. An engine-out service was performed in 2011, while more recent maintenance included an oil change performed six months ago. This Mini is now being offered with a clean California title.
The body is finished in a factory-correct Lake Green and Snow White color combination, and some rock chips and nicks are noted. Aftermarket black plastic fender flares have been installed by the seller. Pictures of the car shortly after importation to the US in 2002 are included in the gallery below.
The 10×5″ Minilite wheels are wrapped in Yokohama rubber, and the 7.5″ S disc brakes are controlled with a later-model master cylinder and servo. The original undercoating is reportedly peeling on the undercarriage, and some surface rust is said to be present underneath and along the rear bumper lip.
An S-specific 120 mph speedometer remains installed, and cracks are present on the gauge pod near the mounting screw holes and below the temperature gauge. A few small tears are shown in the beige vinyl seating. Some interior items have been replaced since the car was imported, including the carpeting. The speedometer flutters on deceleration, though all of the electrics are reported to function properly, including the wipers and blower motor.
The 1275 BMC inline-four breathes through dual-SU carburetors and features a front mounted oil-cooler. The engine was rebuilt to original specifications six years ago due to a whining idler-gear bearing. The original pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, connecting rods, cylinder head, and gearbox were reused. Replacement bearings, gaskets, and seals were sourced from Heritage Garage in Costa Mesa, California.
The chassis plate can be seen above, and the stamping showing engine #48624 is included in the gallery. Photos of the engine-out service can also be seen below.
This car was featured in a 2004 British Motoring article and earlier in an Australian publication. A copy of the Australian registration, the original 10×4.5″ spare tire, tool-kit, and jack are included with the sale."