I am now to the mini world. I have been into MK1 VWs, and decided I wanted something more unique.
I am going to look at a 1960 mini tomorrow, and I would like to know if its a good deal/ idea.

1960 Mini Cooper project. Car is in primmer, still needs paint and body work. no rust, rebuilt 1000cc engine,trans, brakes. has all new rubber seals and gaskets for all the glass and lights. new wiring harness(not installed), extra set of alloy wheels, new bumpers, have a oil cooler for it. car does run and drive, have title. $4,000obo

I plan on keeping it pretty stock.
any advise?

 

It'll cost about 14k when you're done.

Please note that 59/60 cars are different and some of the bits are hard/impossible to get.

Keep in mind that new disc brakes will cost you over 1k.
cheers,
mau

I would advise against buying a project for your first mini, but it sounds like you have all your Tetanus shots so you'll be fine.

 

If you want to understand the Classic Mini be sure to visit:
http://www.minimania.com/msgthreads.cfm

 

the one thing i seem to be taking away from the forum is that minis are expensive to keep running.

 

They're also expensive to get running.

 

I would figure that, but it already runs and drives on a new rebuilt motor, and trans. needs to be rewired, but already has the new wiring harness.
I guess I should also mention that I am very handy with a wrench. Im not afraid to get my hands dirty.

 

Ok, so your tipical runnning VW project costs around 500 bucks.
A typical running mini will cost at least 5k so to get an idea.....take your vw experience an multiply it by 10.

I may be exagerating a bit.....but in reality, it's the cheapest classic to restore when compared to other cars of it's pedigree.

good luck,
mau

 

Think of it this way: your project will be an economic stimulus package. Thanks for doing your part!

 

well, I went and looked at the mini today, and the body is rock solid. It was cold here today so It didnt want to start, but once it did, it purred like a kitten. So I bought it, and Im pretty pleased. Ill post pics at a later date once I take delivery.

 

congrats on the purchase.
Since it's now running, does it stop?
cheers,
mau

 

Yes please send pictures... You will really enjoy the Classic even though they do cost money.

 

Congratulations on the purchase! A 1960 would be one of the first imported (assuming you're in the USA). Good, authentic looks of the Mk1, steering wheel on the right (left) side of the car, and the price sounds right. It's getting very tough to find a Mini for a reasonable price, regardless of age and condition.

Stock or near to stock is just fine for a 50y/o car. Keep the motor reasonable and you won't feel compelled to spend $1k on disc brakes. There's plenty of fun to be had driving "slow" and planning your stops with unassisted drum brakes!

Is it badged as a Morris or Austin? Remote gear shifter or does it have the "Magic Wand"?

 

Good 4 you, I'm glad the few posts here didn't scare you off. The guy I bought my 79 from tried to scare me off too.

IMHO if you've worked old VW's b4 you're well prepped to jump from deutsch to english problems. I think you'll have fun.

Order the Haynes manual, a parts catalog from MOSS (their Mini catalog has good exploded diagrams of all the parts and options which I find VERY helpful in identifying what I need. This is also available online but I like to have it in the garage...under tha car...where-ever )

If you have a true MK-1 you'll have a few extra problems like the sliding window hardware but I would consider that a challenge and not a "don't buy" point.

Tell us where you are and other folks close by can identify themselves....but if it was cold yesterday you ain't near me . FL and luvin' it