Hey Guys,

I've always loved everything about the classic Minis. I have the opportunity to look at a 69' Mini Cooper 1275. I've been reading up on them and would really appreciate anything specific you guys could tell me to look out for.

Here is a summary of the vehicle so far:

76k miles
Owner stated it has "normal 30 year old car rust"
Owner stated some of the paint on the doors is bubbling (more rust probably)
The carbs don't function properly. A rebuild kit was installed but still isn't running correctly.
Electrical is "custom" therefore rally lights do not work.

I've read up on carbs enough to find that new replacement carbs would be around $750 (please correct me if I'm wrong). I'm trying to see what else I should look out for. I'm pretty mechanically inclined and have done basic engine work in the past. Any information would be great.

This would be my primary car (though I almost always bike to work) so I'm not really looking for a full project car. The car can sit in the garage for an extended period of time (a month or so) but really trying to get a "decent" runner.

Thank you in advance for all your time and help.

 

76k miles
Owner stated it has "normal 30 year old car rust"

the car is now 42 years old . . . that adds a lot of rust


Owner stated some of the paint on the doors is bubbling (more rust probably)

ya think? You'll need new door skins at least and this assumes the hinge mounts aren't gone.


The carbs don't function properly. A rebuild kit was installed but still isn't running correctly.
Electrical is "custom" therefore rally lights do not work.

meaning it probably needs a new entire harness, how good are your electrical skills? Electrics are the second most common problem after rust . . .

I've read up on carbs enough to find that new replacement carbs would be around $750 (please correct me if I'm wrong). I'm trying to see what else I should look out for. I'm pretty mechanically inclined and have done basic engine work in the past. Any information would be great.

yes you can find a set of twins, or a single HIF-44/HIF-6 for that price . . . but what else is wrong? Expect to need all new ignition system ... probably shocks, and tires, and exhaust, and brakes esp' if you really expect to:

This would be my primary car (though I almost always bike to work) so I'm not really looking for a full project car. The car can sit in the garage for an extended period of time (a month or so) but really trying to get a "decent" runner.

classic Mini as a primary car has been discussed many times. Unless the car has received a 100% restore job (read $30,000) not a recommended plan . . .

 

I was afraid you were going to say that.

At least I can stick with my classic English-built Raleighs....

 

Well, you also have an opportunity to look at a ton of classics that are for sale. Check out the link below... I followed it for about 4 months before I found something that was just what I wanted.

http://www.minimania.com/Cars4Sale_list.cfm

Oh, and it sounds like that 69 1275 has tons of problems that make it less than ideal for anyone other than someone looking for a good restoration doner. There are plenty of classics for sale that are in good running condition which would be more suitable for your needs. An CaptBJ is right, using a classic Mini as a daily driver is a topic *beaten-to-death* on this forum. Do a couple of forum searches for 'daily driver' and see for yourself.

Cheers,
Jeff

 

I would also add the real "Coopers" are getting harder and harder to come by. So if you think you're going to purchase this car make sure your getting a "cooper" if your going to being pay for one as apposed to a just mini. I believe and someone will correct me if I'm wrong but it really is a 69' with a 1275 it would be a cooper S even more rare. Also These cars a popular for removing the VIN from an old car and putting on a newer model to import it illegally.
Buyer beware.. Just do some research and try to know what your getting.