1980 Mini Clubman 1275E Convertible - SOLD

An incredible opportunity to purchase one of the rarest factory classic Mini models to ever come to the UK. These cars are super rare even in the home market of South Africa and very sought after as a collector's piece.

A company called Carvalette who were leaders in the sunroof and convertible top market in South Africa at the time carried out these conversions. These were not after-market cars but official Leyland factory approved conversions on new and unregistered models sold through the main dealer network. The best draughtsmen and engineers from around the world experienced in this type of work were recruited. This model was only sold through the top selected dealerships in South Africa as the highest priced Mini ever sold in that market at 35% higher than the standard Mini Clubman 1275E. This was the major factor in sales being much lower than anticipated and it is believed only between 40 and 50 cars were ever sold.

The roof and all pillars except the windscreen pillars were professionally removed and replaced with a foldaway top with perspex rear and side windows. The front door top windows were kept and some box channelling was welded in between the floorpan and the side panel to strengthen the body without it's roof.

A roll bar was fitted where the door pillars had been, just behind the front seats enhancing body strength and safety with an extra support from the middle of the roll bar to the centre of the windscreen surround.

Mechanically the car runs the factory 1275cc engine with a compression ration of 9.4:1, is equipped with a single 1.5 inch SU carb, has a final drive of 3,44:1 and all drum dual circuit brakes without servo. Suspension is dry rubber cone. The engine is rated at 56bhp with a top speed of 140 km/h.

This example for auction was a genuine barn find in South Africa having been stored off road for a number of years. Hence it is sold as a non-running but easy restoration project. The body is in very solid and original condition, no evidence of any welding ever being done or necessary, retaining all original panels in rust free condition. Floorpans, sills and undersides all excellent. Spare wheel well and battery compartment in boot all original and solid.There are a few dents and scrapes here and there on the body from it's time in storage and a repaint would be of benefit in the longer term. The rear parcel shelf has been butchered with two large bass speaker holes as seen and will need replacement. The vinyl hood is present but not fitted and looks in good condition.

All import duties have been paid and it is UK registered with a new V5.

When have you ever seen another? An almost unique collectors car - we have another ex-museum example hence only almost :) but there are less than 10 of these cars left in the world.

Transport can be arranged anywhere in the UK at competitive rates