1991 ROVER MINI Cooper S Fast Road Replica
Cooper S Fast Road Replica
Price
£18,995
Used CarDealer: RFH Classics Ltd
17 vehicles listed
You'll be redirected to the dealer's website to enquire or purchase.
Speak directly with the dealer about this vehicle.
Send an enquiry directly to the dealer's inbox.
Vehicle history check — stolen, write-off, finance & mileage. Powered by AutoProv.
Vehicle Specifications
Description
With us now at RFH Classics we are delighted to offer this special 1991 (J) Mini Cooper S Replica, finished in Tartan Red with a contrasting Black roof and the result of an extensive four-year restoration and fast-road development programme. Far more than a Mini simply given the Cooper S appearance, the build encompassed the body, engine, gearbox, brakes, suspension and interior and was featured across six pages in MiniWorld magazine. Originally leaving the factory as a Mini Neon, the car was transformed to combine the subtle yet unmistakable appearance of the earlier sporting models with greater performance and capability than its original specification.
The MiniWorld feature provides a valuable contemporary record of the transformation. In the MiniWorld interview, the then owner records that the car was stripped down and, when corrosion was discovered, the decision was made to undertake the bodywork properly. Outer front wings and scuttle were removed and replaced together with the door skins before the shell was professionally prepared and refinished in Tartan Red with the contrasting Black roof.
Today it presents with excellent panel gaps and a high standard of paint finish. The MiniWorld feature goes on to detail an equally comprehensive mechanical build. According to its documented specification, the engine was based around a 1275cc A+ block which was over-bored to 1293cc and fitted with Omega pistons.
The modified 11-stud 12G940 cylinder head received an unleaded conversion, porting and polishing and Paul Ivey Racing stainless steel valves. A bespoke fast-road camshaft, balanced crankshaft, Janspeed LCB manifold and stainless steel exhaust formed part of the build, with twin SU HS4 carburettors and Ramflo air filters providing the fuelling. Electronic ignition, an alloy radiator and Revotec electric fan completed the installation.
The work didn't stop with the engine. The drivetrain was developed to suit, with a rebuilt four-synchro rod-change gearbox, uprated Verto clutch, 3.765:1 final drive and KAD quick-shift. Braking was upgraded with servo assistance, braided hoses and 7.5-inch Cooper S front discs, while refurbished powder-coated subframes, GMAX dampers, Adjusta-Ride trumpets and adjustable tie bars completed the chassis work.
Visually, a Morris Mk1-style grille, stainless steel bumpers and mirrors and period-inspired detailing complement the Tartan Red bodywork, while 10-inch JBW Dunlop D1-style Alloy Wheels with Yokohama A032 tyres give the car its purposeful stance. Inside, later MPi front seats were retrimmed in Black vinyl with a matching rear seat, complemented by Newton Commercial Black carpeting, a lovely period-feel Mountney steering wheel and a Mk2-style central oval three-clock instrument conversion. Importantly, the February 2019 MiniWorld feature documents the restoration, mechanical development and several of the specialists involved.
The Mini was subsequently offered for sale by a recognised specialist whose sales particulars again recorded its specification. While the original invoice file is unfortunately no longer present, the MiniWorld feature and previous sales particulars form an important part of its history. Overall, this is a Mini that has clearly had considerable time, thought and expenditure invested in its development.
The documented engine build, rebuilt gearbox, uprated brakes and suspension complement the extensive body restoration, creating a complete fast-road Mini rather than simply a cosmetic Cooper S Replica. As part of our preparation, the Mini will be supplied with a new 12-month MOT on collection. It will also be supplied with our 3-month major mechanical warranty together with a vehicle history certificate confirming no outstanding finance or recorded insurance loss.
As with all our classics, we recommend the use of premium unleaded E5 fuel. RFH Classics are Bedfordshire's largest independent classic car dealer, with over 35 years' experience supplying quality vehicles to customers throughout the UK. UK delivery is available and we can also assist with export where required.
A detailed walk-around video of the car can be viewed on our website. To find out more or arrange a viewing, contact RFH Classics today. Visitors are always welcome to our Bedfordshire showroom, although we ask that you call first as we can occasionally be off-site collecting or delivering vehicles.
Call: 01462 338755 Email: [email protected] Website: www.rfhclassics.co.uk
About the Rover MINI
The Rover MINI represents the quintessential British motoring icon, a compact car with a colossal personality that captured hearts across the globe. Known for its 'go-kart' handling, compact dimensions, and timeless design, the Rover MINI appeals to classic car enthusiasts, drivers seeking a fun and engaging analogue experience, and those who appreciate automotive history. In the UK, it enjoys legendary status, revered for its charm, driving purity, and a passionate owner community.
Why Buy a Used Rover MINI?
- **Iconic Status & Classic Appeal:** Owning a Rover MINI means owning a piece of British automotive history, guaranteed to turn heads and spark conversations.
- **Unrivalled Driving Fun & Agility:** Its lightweight, short wheelbase, and direct steering deliver a 'go-kart' like driving experience that few modern cars can replicate.
- **Strong Enthusiast Community & Parts Support:** A vast, passionate community and readily available specialist parts ensure that maintaining and modifying a Rover MINI is a supported endeavour.
- **Potential for Investment & Appreciation:** Well-maintained and original examples, particularly later Cooper variants, can often hold or even increase in value over time.
Typical Price Range
All prices are approximate and subject to change based on condition, mileage, specification, and market conditions.
- 1997–2000: £9,000 – £18,000 — These are often well-preserved late models, including Cooper Sport variants, offering the most refined classic Mini experience.
- 1994–1996: £6,000 – £12,000 — A good balance, providing solid runners that might require some cosmetic attention or minor mechanical refreshes.
- 1990–1993: £4,000 – £8,000 — More accessible, these can range from serviceable daily classics to those needing more significant restoration work.
Common Issues to Check
- **Bodywork Rust:** Thoroughly inspect sills, subframes, A-panels, boot floor, and scuttle panel as corrosion is very common.
- **Engine Oil Leaks:** Check for oil leaks around the engine, particularly the rocker cover, crankshaft seals, and sump gasket.
- **Suspension Wear:** Listen for knocks or creaks, and check for 'sagging' rubber cones, worn ball joints, and corroded subframes.
- **Electrical Gremlins:** Older wiring can suffer from corrosion and intermittent faults, so test all lights, wipers, and dashboard functions.
- **Gearbox Condition:** Listen for excessive whine, crunching gears (especially 2nd and 3rd), and check for oil leaks, indicating potential wear.
Running Costs
- Fuel Economy: 30–38 mpg (for typical 1.3i models, varies with driving style).
- Insurance Group: Low (e.g., 8-15 for standard models), but classic car insurance is highly recommended and often more cost-effective for these vehicles.
- Servicing: Relatively simple mechanics mean lower labour costs if you find a specialist, but age-related part wear can add up. Regular maintenance is key.
Which Variant Should I Choose?
- Mini Cooper: The most sought-after, offering sportier engines (1.3i SPi/MPi) and iconic styling, perfect for enthusiasts seeking performance and heritage.
- Mini Mayfair: A more comfortable, slightly more luxurious trim with softer suspension, ideal for those wanting a classic Mini for gentler cruising.
- Mini Sprite/City: Entry-level models, often with the 1.0L or less powerful 1.3L engines, making them excellent, affordable bases for customisation or a purist classic experience.
- Mini Cooper Sport: The ultimate evolution of the classic Mini, featuring distinctive wide arches, specific alloys, and a potent 1.3i MPi engine, appealing to collectors and performance enthusiasts.
All listings on Carslink.ai are sourced directly from dealer stock feeds. Always verify listing details, prices, and vehicle condition directly with the seller before purchasing.