I am in Los Angeles, California.

I am interested to purchase a 1969/1970 Mini with the 998 cc Morris engine.

The car is in not bad shape. I would say it is 7.5 out of 10 (10 = excellent condition).

It is a 4 speed manual transmission and when I test drive it, it doesn't shift smoothly.

The seller is asking for $9500.

Do you guys think it is a good deal?

 

I would urge you to have someone very familiar with classic minis take a good look at the car you're considering. There are many potential issues you may not notice at first: rust can be very expensive to fix, a bad tranny will require engine removal, and the list can go on. If it turns out to be a solid car then $9500 could be a decent price but always keep caveat emptor in proper balance with your enthusiasm to own a classic. Heritage Garage and Seven Enterprises are in CA and may be able to give good advice.

 

that an old type gear box that will be difficult at first as it has a UJ linkage that might be worn....

 

did you check the oil level? If the owner doesn't drive this much there's no tellin' what you'll find and if ya don't already know the motor oil is also the tranny fluid on a Mini! So if the oil is crud or low the shifting issue could be as "simple" as that.


really can't judge the price based on year and "looks good". When I get asked at car shows tho I tell folks to expect to pay $7000 for something that runs and is safe on the road (brakes & lights work etc). Pay less and expect problems from day 1 and pay more for anything the car has beyond "a runner". A true Cooper (or S) demands more $. Mods may or may not depending on what YOU are looking for.

post pictures ... incl motor and interior as well as outside ....

first question is: IS IT what you think it is?


Remember 2 things:

1. There is no such thing as a rust free classic unless the restore was completed yesterday and the price is $30,000 or more

2. It is a USED CAR and worth what YOU are willing to pay, NOT what I think or what the seller thinks. If I ask $12,000 for my car and after a year I've had no offers, is it worth $12,000????

recommended reading: https://classicmotorsports.com/proje...mini-cooper-s/

 

Here's a good background article regarding transmissions and what to look for:

http://www.minimania.com/Gearbox___C...es_of_problems

Also, some info on the 998 cc engine.

http://www.minimania.com/Search_Resu...%20cc/Articles

Please let us know if you decide to purchase it!

Drive Hard. Drive Safe. Keep Grinning.