Is a Paul Smith Mini worth buying?

The limited edition Mini Paul Smith, released in 1998, represents one of the most unique collaborations between the automotive and fashion worlds. A special edition designed by renowned British fashion designer Paul Smith, this Mini brought together a blend of classic British motoring with a high-fashion twist. Only 1,800 examples were produced worldwide, with just 300 allocated to the UK market. The vehicle became a collector’s item almost instantly, largely due to its limited run and distinctive design. But is it worth buying today, more than 25 years later?

Paul Smith Limited Edition Mini

The Paul Smith LE Mini is a striking example of how innovative design can breathe new life into a classic car. This limited edition model was more than just a simple facelift. Each UK model came in a unique Paul Smith blue hue and featured a black leather interior, giving it a sophisticated look, and loaded with special touches that set it apart from any other Mini model.

From the charcoal grey 12” Minilite alloy wheels to the twin spot lamps at the front, this Mini was packed with unique features. The 24-carat gold enamelled “Paul Smith” bonnet badge and matching rear window sticker made sure everyone knew exactly what they were looking at. Inside, the dash was colour-coded to match the exterior, with Paul Smith’s scripted graphics on the instrument panel, adding an extra layer of refinement. 

But the most playful feature was hidden away - the glovebox interior, petrol tank, and boot liner were all finished in a bold citrus green, a nod to Paul Smith’s penchant for “pops of colour” in his clothing designs. The Mini Paul Smith LE wasn’t just another Mini, it was a fashion statement, with every detail carefully considered.

Given its premium features and limited availability, it became the first Mini to retail for over £10,000. For those lucky enough to snag one of the original 300 UK models, it was an investment that has only grown in value over time.

How Many Paul Smith Minis Were Made?

In total, only 1,800 Paul Smith Minis were produced. Of these, 300 were allocated to the UK market, while the remaining 1,500 were shipped to Japan. The limited production run and high demand from both markets have made this Mini a rare and highly sought-after collector’s item.

What Colours Does the Paul Smith Edition Come In?

While the UK models all came in the iconic Paul Smith blue, the story was slightly different for the Japanese market. Some Mini Mayfair models in black and cream were converted into Paul Smith editions before being shipped overseas. However, none of these cars could replicate the signature blue that made the UK edition so distinctive.

Where Did the Paul Smith Mini Colour Come From?

The Paul Smith Mini's signature blue colour came straight from the designer's own wardrobe. 

Paul Smith actually tore a piece off the bottom of one of his blue shirts and sent it directly to Mini’s production team to ensure the colour was replicated perfectly.

But the colour story doesn’t end there. While the exterior was a uniform blue, the interior featured a series of hidden, unexpected design elements. Lime green accents appeared in places like the battery cover, the petrol tank, and the boot lining, all serving as subtle reminders of Paul Smith’s signature style – a classic with a twist.

Paul Smith once said that the Mini would be a classic, but with something surprising thrown in. His edition of the car lived up to that promise with these playful, unexpected design flourishes.

Paul Smith Mini Price

Today, the Paul Smith Mini commands a wide range of prices depending on its condition and mileage. A well-maintained model can cost anywhere between £8,000 and £25,000. However, the typical price for one in good condition hovers around £13,000. This range reflects the car’s rarity and the high demand among collectors.

Given the car’s unique design and its limited production run, the Paul Smith Mini is often seen as a worthwhile investment. Not only does it represent a piece of British motoring history, but it also carries the prestige of being associated with one of the UK’s most famous fashion designers.

What Is the Paul Smith Mini Recharged?

In 2022, BMW Mini teamed up with Paul Smith again to unveil the Paul Smith Mini Recharged, a futuristic concept car that retained the charm of the original 1998 model while embracing modern technology. Revealed at Milan’s prestigious Salone del Mobile, the Recharged edition transformed the classic 1998 Mini into an all-electric vehicle, showcasing how vintage designs can be made sustainable.

The car was fitted with a 90-kilowatt emission-free electric engine, ensuring that the iconic Mini could continue to be driven on today’s roads without contributing to pollution. Beyond the engine, the Recharged model also featured recycled materials for the upholstery and mats, further enhancing its sustainability credentials.

True to Paul Smith’s playful design ethos, the car included pops of color, such as orange seat belts and a luminous yellow dashboard. One particularly clever feature was the removable steering wheel, a nod to taller drivers (like Paul himself) who want extra space with the car’s compact size.

Is a Paul Smith Mini worth buying?

For fans of classic cars, design aficionados, and collectors alike, the answer is a resounding yes. With its rich history, limited availability, and unique styling, the Paul Smith Mini offers both a nostalgic driving experience and an opportunity to own a piece of automotive and fashion history.

If this limited edition Mini captures your imagination, get in touch with us to find your new Mini. View our current classic minis for sale or get in touch to register your interest in a new mini. 

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At Phil Mires Classic Cars, we specialise in the purchase, sale and sourcing of quality classic Minis. 

If you are looking to buy a Mini, you can browse our classic Minis for sale. If you don't see a Mini that suits you, please email us with your desired specification (model, colour, mileage etc) and budget, and we will let you know as soon as a potentially suitable example becomes available.

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