Do you remember the famous 1969 film The Italian Job? At the start of the movie, a stunning Miura tears through the Alps before crashing out of a tunnel. The film also features a beautiful Aston Martin DB4, which the Italian mafia sends plunging into a ravine. However, the focus here is on one model: the Mini Cooper.
In the film, three Mini Coopers are seen speeding around with a stolen load of gold. During that era, the Mini Cooper was sold under names such as Austin Cooper and Morris Cooper. Our example is a Morris Cooper S. The Mini was positioned under two BMC brands: Austin and Morris. The only differences are the emblems and, on certain models, the grille.
The Mini Cooper was launched in September 1961. It offered a fantastic combination of size, price, and performance. It quickly established a reputation as a rally and race winner. The most sought-after version is the 1,071cc Mini Cooper 'S' from 1963, which is the model we are offering here.
The 1,071cc MK1 Cooper S was the first Cooper S produced by BMC and the first Mini to succeed in the Monte Carlo Rally, winning its class three times in the 1960s. Production ran from January 1963 to August 1964, manufactured in the UK and exported to markets such as South Africa, Rhodesia (Zimbabwe), Ireland, New Zealand, Belgium, and Chile. This Cooper formed the basis for the 971cc and 1275cc “S” models of 1964. A total of 4,030 MK1 1071cc Cooper S cars were produced, including both Austin and Morris versions.
With 69 hp, just over 3 meters long, weighing approximately 600 kg, and a top speed of 150 km/h, this car has a rich racing and rally history. We have a Cooper S 1071cc on display in Brummen. This particular car was built on August 9, 1963, and delivered on September 19 of that year in Switzerland. After some time there, it was exported to California, where it has enjoyed a dry existence.
The Mini features the original color combination as it left the factory: Tartan Red with black. This is verifiable through the British Heritage Certificate, which we provide. The car underwent restoration and overhaul work a few years ago, resulting in a very beautiful and neat condition. Both the exterior and interior are in excellent shape, with good-quality paint, chrome bumpers, and well-maintained windows.
This Mini is equipped with four Lucas fog lights, Mercury 10-inch wheels, and a folding roof. Driving this legendary Mini is a fantastic experience. Its light weight ensures excellent handling, and you can feel its rally heritage with every drive. The mechanicals are in top condition following the overhaul.
In addition to the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust certificate, we include the original owner’s manual.
Are you interested in this legendary Mini Cooper? Contact us today; we’d be happy to assist you. Gallery Aaldering has been a family-owned business since 1975. You are most welcome to visit us. We also arrange worldwide export of our vehicles; please ask about the options.