1969 (G) Mini Cooper from Scotland
I flew to Scotland this morning from Southampton. The flight was from 9.00am – 10.35am, to collect the 1969 Mini Cooper Mk11 which I had purchased only a few days before. I had never seen the car in my life, but trusted the buyers description, and sure enough it was fantastic. The Mini Cooper Mk11 had been through a full nut and bolt restoration. I could not believe my eyes. It was just beautiful. But 8 hours drive home in this little car did seem a bit daunting. But either that or leave it in Scotland. So here we go! 420 miles none stop to Winchester in a little car I had never seen before. Brave or stupid? I left Ayrshire in Scotland at 12.30pm and arrived in Winchester at 8.26pm. The little car drove like a dream all the way back.
Apart from the heater not working, as it had to be temporarily disconnected to sort an indicator issue. (We will correct all this in our workshop tomorrow). Hence I have never been so cold for so long in my entire life!
I stayed between 55 and 70mph all the way and had no problems what so ever. I stopped for fuel, as both tanks got to half full. (They run together). They still had just under a full tank of fuel in them when I arrived back home. So not a bad day.
So to sum up my day today, I met some lovely people, Johnnie (the seller) and the chap I sat next to on the plane. ( I hope you had a good day in the office?). Plus, got a fantastic car back to Winchester. (Click on images for more pictures)
INTERESTING AUSTIN MINI FACTS:
- Did you know: The Mini came about because of a fuel shortage caused by the 1956 Suez Crisis. Petrol was once again rationed in the UK and sales of large cars slumped.
- Did you know: because the Mini has a transverse engine – front wheel drive layout. 80% of the area of the Austin Mini’s floorpan is used for passengers space and luggage.
- Did you know: 1999 the Mini was voted the second most influential car of the 20th century behind the Ford Model T, and ahead of the Citroën DS and Volkswagen Beetle.
- Did you know: The Mini Cooper won the Monte Carlo Rally in 1964, 1965 and 1967. In 1966, the first-placed Mini was disqualified after the finish, under a controversial decision that the car’s headlights were against the rules. (Click on images for more pictures)