I am looking to buy a classic mini. This forum has been an excellent source of information and very educational to a person trying to join this "family". I understand that sometimes cars are re-vined and passed off as an older car. For the most part I have seen the "updated to 199x specs" sort of "disclaimer". Or the obvious MPI engine on a 1975 car, not! Are there any other things i can look at to help me identify if the classic mini from lets say the 70's is actually an original.

 

if you look at the latch mechanism for the boot the manufacture date is stamped on, if it is the original part. So too on the windsheild wiper motor.



not the best picture but you see the figures 18 and 79 which indicates week 18 of 1979 - or so I understand...

Knowing what a particular year should look like helps and this is a good source http://www.minimania.com/MiniID/

Start wilth easy things like major 'Mark' differences: sliding windows, external door hinges, 10 inch wheels vs 12 vs 13, what size engine was available which years

 

That's very good advice. There are other markers as well ... tail light style changed a bit through the years, side marker lights on the front wings, and of a a dead giveaway - a steering wheel with airbag. Fuel injected engine is also a give away but you need to know what to look for.

Good luck with the hunt,
Jeff