Austin Mini Pick-Up

An ultra-rare original factory Austin Mini Pick-Up

Price

SOLD

Year

1969

Mls/Kms

81,030* miles

Sold in

Germany

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History File

This rare survivor and genuine factory Mini Pick-Up was built on the 4th of April 1969. Confirmed by British Motor Industry Heritage Trust, it was exported to British Leyland Sweden as a RHD car in its original Snowberry white livery. Somewhat controversially, Sweden changed from driving on the left to the right on the 3rd of September 1967. This monumental event was known as Dagen H and was introduced to bring them into line with their neighbouring countries. So it is no surprise that Sweden was still importing RHD cars in 1969, as the country took a number of years to gradually fully convert. In 2010 the car lands in Germany and is partially restored by a known Mini enthusiast in Stuttgart who would convert the car to LHD before running out of steam and putting the car aside. The car lay dormant for several years before being purchased in 2017 by a former Rover dealer who would fully restore this charming little car to the exquisite condition we see today. The finish and overall quality is outstanding and ultra-rare to find a bona fide factory Mini Pick-Up.

Exterior

Today, the car presents in the well-suited Almond Green which is a change from its original factory Snowberry White. The frame-off restoration work carried out is simply too much to list but, in summary, the body shell is factory original, but with the majority of panels now replaced: a complete front end with new wings and bonnet; floor panels have been replaced; both sills, naturally inside and out have also been renewed; both doors and the rear pick-up lid have been replaced too. Notorious for their rust, it was easier to replace than repair all the mentioned panels. But it must be said that the now finished article is an absolute charmer. All the chrome, including the ridiculously hard to source, tiny rear bumpers are in restored condition and are nicely matched with the chrome-style wheel arch and sill trim.

Interior

Perhaps not for the ‘spartan’ purists but, that was never the intention here. The seats have been reupholstered in genuine Connolly Jaguar leather, left over from an XJS. With matching green piping, it has created a completely different environment to the norm. The head restraints also add an additional safety element against the very close rear window panel which, let’s face it, was always a little too close for comfort. Quality green carpeting with contrasting beige piping is a nice touch to blend in with the tan leather seats. Centrally, we see a dominant wooden dash with twin glove-box compartments and a genuine Nardi wooden steering wheel which is TÜV approved for the cars current German Historical registration. Both interior door panels and the roof lining are also new, covered in appropriate beige PVC. Please also note the chrome window slides adding a discrete touch of bling. The overall finish is a joy. Undoubtedly, it will not be to everyone’s taste and will no-doubt offend one or two purists but, for sure, there will be plenty who do love it.

Engine & Transmission

The original 1.0 Litre engine is long gone and has been replaced by a far more efficient, later 42ps unit, taken from a donor car offering superb compression and a much smoother gear change. It’s a lot of power to move such a small amount of weight, but what a lot of fun to boot. And it’s all housed under an immaculate engine bay following a recent service.*The odometer mileage showing is from before the engine change.

Wheels, Tyres & Brakes

Standard 10” steel wheels have been completely restored and are covered in new LP 918 (145/80 R10 69S – M&S) tyres, including the spare which is neatly tucked behind the driver’s seat and rear panel. Slightly wider than standard wheels they have also been approved for their current German TÜV registration.

Project Description