Project Description
MK1 Mini Moke
An uncompromising MK1 Mini Moke nut and bolt restoration.
Price
SOLDYear
1966Mls/Kms
50,787 milesSold in
FranceHistory File
The Moke is known for its simple, straightforward, doorless design, and for its adaptability. The first Mokes were manufactured at BMC’s Longbridge, Birmingham plant, with 14,518 produced in the UK between 1964 and 1968. 26,000 were manufactured in Australia between 1966 and 1981, and 10,000 in Portugal between 1980 and 1993 when, after a nearly 30-year run, production ended. This particular British made example is from 1966 and, as confirmed by its Heritage Certificate, was originally RHD. Bought some 30 years ago by a well-known Mini Specialist in norther Germany, initially with a view to restore for himself and use as a holiday car abroad, it was simply put aside to ponder. As always, the usual work commitments somehow got in the way and here we are, now 3 decades on and the car is finally completed. Finished to exacting standards, as one would imagine, our 1966 example is quite clearly the very best available – anywhere, and would suit any holiday home location for those who are lucky enough to have one. Now with German Historical registration status.
Exterior
The Moke’s construction is simple. The body mainly consists of two box-section ‘pontoons’ or ’sideboxes’ running between the front and rear wheels and includes (non-hollow) extensions of that from the back of the car all the way up to the front. These are connected by the floor pan, the firewall and a sturdy lateral torque box that runs under the front seats and stiffens the body in torsion. The left-hand pontoon contains the fuel tank; the right-hand has a compartment for the battery and a small lockable storage area. The windscreen structure can easily be removed when not needed. When new, the only colour available was Spruce green with the later models also available in white. Our exquisite example is now finished in an attractive RAL 7009 green/grey with a contrasting green mohair cloth canopy fitted to the highest standard. In addition a bespoke larger rear screen has been fitted.
Interior
Originally, passenger seats, grab handles, heater, windscreen washer and a removable canvas top were optional. The Mk 1 Moke, as you see here, had a single windscreen wiper and in 1967, the “Mk 2” Moke added a passenger-side wiper. Horn and headlight controls were also later moved onto the indicator stalk. The optional cloth canopy is held up by a thin tubular structure that can easily be removed when not needed. It’s a simple interior, to say the least, with our example displaying bespoke alcantara beige cushion covers, with contrasting black/beige piping foot-well mats. The steering wheel has been replaced to match the overall new appearance and we’ve added sensible and perfectly usable A-Post round mirrors. The overall finish is most likely better than when it left the Longbridge, Birmingham factory, so make no mistake this is the very best example available.
Engine & Transmission
British-made Mokes were fitted with a low-end 848 cc transverse inline-four engine, detuned to use low-octane fuel. They used the same suspension, gearbox and 10 inch wheels as the standard Mini. Because the Moke’s A-Series engine, manual gearbox and suspension are identical to those of a standard Mini (which was still in production up to October 2000), most spare parts are still readily available. Under the bonnet is highly detailed confirming the level of restoration with literally everything externally replaced and a complete engine overhaul. A few subtle up-grades have been made including a brand new 1980’s Mini wiring loom and modern alternator.
Wheels, Tyres & Brakes
The 10” restored cream painted wheels with standard hubcaps are covered in new Nankang 145/80 R10 tyres. The brakes received a complete restoration package and have recently passed the stringent German TÜV testing for roadworthiness.
Underneath
Additional images
