What is the Rarest Classic Mini?

The Mini Cooper S Sport 5 and Mini Cooper S Touring by John Cooper Garages, both released in 1997, are considered the rarest classic Minis. While there are no official records to confirm the figures, it is widely believed that only around 30 Mini Cooper S Sport 5s were produced.

A similarly rare model is the Mini Cooper Grand Prix by John Cooper Garages, released in 1994. With only 35 cars made, this special edition Mini has become a converted treasure among collectors and enthusiasts alike.

This is in stark contrast to the estimated 6 million classic Minis produced between 1959 and 2000, making these special edition variants some of the most desirable and valuable classic Minis around.

What makes the Mini Cooper S Sport 5 and Mini Cooper S Touring special?

What distinguishes these John Cooper models from other Minis is their remarkable engine performance. A standard Rover Mini Cooper MPI typically generates about 62 brake horsepower (bhp), but these special editions, enhanced with key upgrades, can deliver 85 bhp.

Key upgrades included:

• Polished and ported cylinder head with enlarged valve
• Ported inlet manifold and throttle body
• Modified fuel pressure regulator for increased fuel pressure
• 1.5:1 ratio roller-tip rockers
• LCB (long centre branch) exhaust manifold system
• K&N air filter

These modifications result in a 30% increase in power and better throttle response, enabling impressive 0-60 mph times of 9.65 seconds and 9.95 seconds respectively.
What truly sets the Mini Cooper S Sport 5 apart isn’t just its rarity; it’s the unique five-speed gearbox that was never a feature in any standard Mini model, including the SPI and MPI versions. Rover didn’t manufacture a five-speed Mini; rather, it was John Cooper Garages that enhanced these Minis by installing a Jack Knight 5-speed gearbox.

Both the Mini Cooper S Sport 5 and the Mini Cooper S Touring were enhanced cosmetically with exclusive John Cooper accessories. These include ‘Si’ boot badges, distinctive John Cooper center caps, scripted door step covers, luxurious burr walnut door cappings and alloy door furniture. Additionally, a John Cooper Garages conversion plate, engraved with the unique car number, would sit prominently on the crossmember.

What Makes a Classic Mini Rare?

A Mini’s rarity is determined by how many were originally produced and how many remain today. The rarest models include the Mini Cooper S Sport 5, the Mini Cooper S Touring and the Mini Cooper Grand Prix with less than 100 cars produced for all 3 models.

Are Automatic Minis Rare?

Automatic Minis aren’t necessarily rare, but they are far less common than manuals in the UK. However, automatic Minis were more frequently produced for the Japanese market (JDM – Japanese Domestic Market).

What Is the Least Popular Classic Mini?

Pinpointing the least popular Mini model is tricky, but Mk4 and Mk5 Minis (1976-1989), particularly those with 998cc engines and/or automatic transmissions, tend to be the least desirable among collectors.

While they lack the collector’s appeal of earlier models, they are usually priced much lower, making them a great option for buyers who want the classic Mini experience without the premium price tag.

What Is the Cheapest Classic Mini?

The price of a classic Mini depends on several factors, including rarity, desirability, colour, condition, mileage, and provenance. However, the most affordable Minis tend to be Mk4 and Mk5 models (1976-1989), particularly those with 998cc engines and/or automatic transmissions.

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