Rover Mini, British Open Classic - 24 km 1996

French registration title No MOT Launched in 1959 by the British Motor Corporation, the Mini is an icon of the Sixties; elegant, agile and efficient in urban traffic as well as on more hostile and sportier terrain, this revolutionary and economical car for its time has delighted generations of drivers. Our example was ordered new from Ets Beaulieu Automobiles, in Salon-de-Provence, in May 1996; this Mini has since been stored at the home of its one and only owner and has never been used, its odometer reading less than 24 km when it finally found the light of day a few weeks ago. It is accompanied by a complete file including order form, purchase invoice, provisional registration document, duplicate keys, as well as all the logbooks and on-board manuals; it still has the stickers displaying its provisional number (the definitive number plates are present but have never been drilled or fitted to the car). In keeping with the special British Open series presented in 1992, it has immaculate British Racing Green bodywork, enhanced by decorative fillets and gold logos, while the interior features comfortable beige velvet upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, all in new condition; in addition to its light alloy wheels, chrome grille, handles and bumpers, the car’s major asset is its electric canvas sunroof which, when opened, floods the passenger compartment with light. Equipped with a lively, responsive 1300 injection engine, our car (which will have to be restarted) is a magnificent time machine; it represents a unique opportunity to acquire what is certainly the least-mileage Mini on the market in an exceptional state of preservation.