1976 Mini Margrave by Wood & Pickett (1293cc)
Registration number: UJA5322
Vin Number: 7375322
Featured in Mini World magazine in 2019.
This stunning Margrave started life as a Mini 1275 GT in 1976, before going on to world-famous specialists Wood & Pickett in Park Royal London for numerous upgrades and transformation into the car we see today. It features the usual WP de-seamed rear end, the reduced size rear window, full Webasto sunroof, electric windows, comfortable custom made seats fitted with armrests and picnic tables at the rear, twin fuel tanks and an all custom interior and dash.
The result was a unique and real period stunner. Purchased in 1988 by the last owner of 23 years, the car was then handed over to renowned Mini specialists Minispeed. Under a 'no expense' spared instruction for an extensive nut and bolt restoration back to ‘better than new’ condition, work began and continued for seven months. Genuine Bentley Walnut paint was applied during the rebuild, with the cost of the paint material alone more than £600...20 years ago!
An extensive refurbishment was completed and the final invoice came to a staggering £24,000; the equivalent restoration today would set you back £67,000 not including the cost of the car. The engine was also updated to 1293cc at this time and a further £6,000 has been spent on maintenance in more recent times.
Featuring in a four-page article in ‘Mini World’ last year, this wonderful Mini has driven just 3,000 miles since work was completed and presents superbly, benefitting from a year’s MoT, an extensive history file and the UK V5C registration document.
On the road, you really have to drive one of these to appreciate how visceral the experience is. The 1275 GT Engine responds instantly & crisply at the slightest touch of the throttle giving a serious performance. The handling has to be experienced with instant turn in from the vary direct steering & a glued to the road, round corners on rails feel to it. One forgets just what incredible handling these fat tyred minis have. At 6ft 3" tall I am able to easily fit in & drive the car so size is not an issue for the next lucky owner.
