Mk3 Mini Cooper 1275S – Historic Rally & Hillclimb Car

1970 Mk3 Mini Cooper 1275S – Historic Rally & Hillclimb Car

For sale is my recently acquired Mk3 Mini Cooper 1275S (Reg: VTV 587J, first registered 13/11/1970). Sadly, due to an indefinitely delayed surgery, the car will not be used as intended and I’d rather see it enjoyed than sitting idle.

This Cooper S boasts a long motorsport pedigree dating back to the 1970s, with proven results in both rallying and hillclimbing. The previous owner is still actively competing with other Minis, while the last keeper primarily focused on hillclimb events.

The car comes with a BMIHT factory heritage record and an FIA Historic Regularity Car Pass (HRCP) (requires renewal). It also holds a current MOT until 2026, although exempt by age.

Key Details:

• Model: Mk3 Mini Cooper 1275S

• Registration: VTV 587J

• Date Registered: 13/11/1970

Engine (100 miles since rebuild, still running in):

• AEG 312 thin flange block, bored +20 thou = 1293cc

• Fully balanced with AEG 145 con rods & Omega forged pistons

• Newman 244 cam, new bearings & followers

• Paul Ivey EN40b forged crankshaft (1.625” Cooper S journals)

• Large valve Stage 3 head, 1.5:1 roller rockers

• Twin 1½” SU carbs on Maniflow manifold

• Competition clutch with orange plate & lightweight flywheel

• ARP bolts throughout

• New Cooper S distributor

• Duplex vernier, lightened timing gears

• Special tuning engine steadies

Gearbox:

• Jack Knight straight cut close-ratio gearbox & drop gears

• Quaife LSD with MED 4.066 CWP

• Centre oil pickup & quick-shift rod gear lever

Suspension & Brakes:

• Dry suspension cones with Hi-Lo adjusters

• Adjustable shocks, camber brackets & tie bars

• Servo-assisted brakes with Mintex M1144 pads

• Braided hoses, negative camber bottom arms

Safety & Interior:

• FIA Safety Devices roll cage with door bars

• FIA 4-point harnesses & Corbeau period seats (brand new)

• FIA battery cut-off & plumbed fire system

• Works-style dash, Brantz trip meter, Butler map light & stopwatches

• Facet competition fuel pump & Lucas alternator

• Mountney steering wheel

• Internal fuel, brake & electrical wiring

Exterior:

• 6 Minilite-style wheels

• New skidded Maniflow exhaust system

• Scottish sump guard

Extras:

• Boot shelf included (removed only for photos)

• Supplied with paperwork, spares, and additional photos on request

This is a well-documented, competition-ready Cooper S with superb provenance and fresh mechanicals — ideal for historic rallying, hillclimbs, or fast road use. Serious buyers only, please.

Contact to arrange a viewing.