Description
By 1963 the BMC Competition department knew what they wanted to do with the Mini. Their efforts culminated in the 1963 Austin Cooper S and Morris Cooper S. Besides a host of upgrades, the primary difference was a specially cast engine block and cylinder head that was more suitable for racing.
The first Cooper S models used a 1,071cc engine with a special nitrided steel crankshaft. Factory upgrades included larger front disc brakes, a vacuum-assisted brake booster and offset steel wheels which were widened to 4½ inches by 1964. Despite only having around 75bhp on tap, the Minis were very successful in Group 2 Rally racing, winning the Monte Carlo Rally outright.
This superb Mark 1 has just finished a rebuild and is offered with FIA papers, 1275cc engine, spare engine and original 970cc engine as part of the sale. Ready to compete in many historic events and sure to be competitive, this is an excellent opportunity to enter the historic motoring community.
