i know yall get this all the time, but i need some opinions on this mini. for a while now, my mother has been talking about buying a classic, but i'm in charge of actually finding it, and such.

it would just be to drive around town, probably no long trips. it has to be an automatic as my mother doesn't drive manual and doesn't care to learn. *shrug* can't be too expensive or need a lot of body work. also needs to be fairly mechanically sound. not looking for a project car. though interior work is okay, i think.


with that said, how does this look? from all appearances is it what it says?

http://www.westpaminis.com/automatic.html


thanks for yall's help... and patience, since we're completely new to classics

 

first thing to realize is that all classic minis are projects.

 

yeah, i know that, i just mean we don't want to buy something that won't drive without first being completely taken apart, etc. something that can be worked on little by little and still be completely driveable and not sitting in a garage somewhere

 

In the Mini marketplace, you won't do any better than Alistair and his UK partner, Peter. I know Peter as he used to live in Orlando. They are very honest about their cars, sometimes brutally. Ask any customer of theirs. Good reputation.

As far as that car goes, from the pics you can see it needs cosmetics (paint). At worst, it may need A-panels replaced which is not a costly addition to a repaint. Buy the best body shell you can afford. Worry less about the mechanicals as they are easier to fix.

Do you require an automatic? Generally, that is not a plus for a classic Mini as when they break they are troublesome to repair. That auto was also in the old Austin America that sold in the US through 72 (?). If you do buy it, be sure to change the oil religiously as the auto also uses the engine oil.

 

i have just bought a clasic mini for 4oo pound and i have to put a new frount end on it all it is costing me is 150 pounds for 2 a pannels 2 wings a frount pannel and a bonet not much if u fink bout it

 

i'm happy to hear that.. i like the way westpaminis isn't hesitant to take pictures of all the trouble spots and such.

and unfortunately, we do need an automatic, so my mother can drive it.


so besides a repaint and possibly some small parts, that bit of rust shouldn't be too serious?

 

I am sure Alistair will give you a thorough going over of the car and answer all your questions in detail. I wouldn't be too concerned from the pics shown. Just inspect it thoroughly.