I've been looking for awhile at different classic Minis trying to find the right one. I recently sold my A/H so I have about 6K to play with, want something that runs and drives and is not falling apart. Engine choices no biggie, I had a little 948 in my Sprite. But what about this car? Why did he lower the reserve? I know that the suspension in this 64 is the wierd one, is that why the value might be affected. Is this a good dealer?

Any input anyone could offer would be great. I have found a lot of little cars that interest me but this one has really got me thinking.

Thanks

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...170661436&rd=1

 

That's one of Turkey's Minis, and... well... I've heard a lot about that guy. Some love him while others feel that he's often quite... um, well let's say "optimistic" about the condition of his cars (particularly where body rust is concerned). Just as with any classic Mini, I'd not believe ANY claims of "no rust anywhere" and assume that you'll need to put some time, effort and money into some body panel and floor repairs. the low cost, however, means that you'll actually have some cash left-over to do that sort of work, and if you're mechanically inclined with some tools (esp. a welding rig) then you can likely do most if not all of it yourself.

I'm not sure what you mean about the"weird suspension" other than that it may be Hydrolastic, and if it is, then you have to look at the rear sub frame VERY CAREFULLY for rust, as this is an infamous failure point. Honestly, I went with a traditional rubber-cone suspension specifically because I have at least a prayer of affecting a repair if I need to - I know I wouldn't stand a chance on a Hydrolastic system...

 

Like he said - see Turkys.com
http://turkys.com/64redMorris.html


if it is wet, you can rebuilt it to dry suspension, but that adds to your cost.....

Some love him, some hate him.

His cars are in the country and titled....

he's a dealer....this is not a private sale

 

It is hydrolastic suspension. Look at the engine photos and the hoses going into the top of the suspension in front of the master cylinders and on the other side. They can be serviced although parts are getting harder to find. Or, as stated, you can convert to rubber cone suspension.

NZ cars don't rust much because of climate. That said, the sun chews up the rest of the car like it does in AZ. So paint, upholstery and rubber seals will be crap. That is evident n the photos. I'd require photos under the carpets of the floors and underside before I drove all that way.

 

Plus he said it's been in the US since the 90's. My car wasn't MADE until '92 and IT has rust, so I'd be very skeptical of claims of "no rust" just because it sat in NZ for a long time.

 

Check out http://classicminiautos.com/ in Hilton Head. That's where I found mine. I just got an email from them and it sounds like they have quite a selection. They sent this link, saying that some shown are sold (dunno which), but you may spot one you favor. http://photosmart.hpphoto.com/FilmSt...e05f320&SKU=HP
And they have others not on the web site or in these pix.

 

Thank you so much for the input. I have purchased a few cars off ebay but I am just not feeling all that confident with the Mini purchase off ebay, not sure why. I guess all these 1996/1976 "conversions" and out of the country dealers make me very nervous to know that what you are getting is what you expected to get.

I sent Carol an email about the Minis she has, I talked to her when I had my Sprite, I just totally forgot about them! They are super nice people, thanks so much for putting that info. up and reminding me

 

A re-VIN is OK - if it has a US title then you're OK. Just be sure to check all the usual places for rust - there's a link at the top of the forum to the Minifinity Ultimate Buyer's Guide - I'd highly suggest printing it out and using it a a guide to what photos you need to request. I used it when i got my '76 (a '92 "updated" Mini) and it was invaluable.

 

Turky is a dealer but when you write the check it is to Werner Burky. The cars are his personal property. He is not an enthusiast - he has merely tapped into the classic Mini market. If you can't find the corrosion on a Mini you're not looking hard enough.