1990 classic rover mini cooper rsp
Launched on 10th July 1990, the Mini Cooper RSP (Rover Special Products) was the first Mini Cooper in 21 years. Only 1650 cars were manufactured, with 1050 earmarked for the home market. The model proved an instant success and sold out before cars began to appear in showrooms, which prompted Rover to put a Cooper in full-time production. The RSP featured Rover’s 1275cc A-series engine with 1.5” SU carb, making it one of the last carburettor Minis released before the introduction of fuel injection. Each car was built to a high and instantly recognisable specification, to include twin-spotlights, RSP Minilite alloy wheels, body-coloured door mirrors and wheel arches, Tudor Webasto sunroof, half leather interior, red leather-bound steering wheel and a three-clock binnacle with green faced dials. RSP Minis became desirable classics very early on in their lives due to the limited production run and their significance to the return of the Mini Cooper.
This Rover Mini Cooper RSP was first registered on 2nd October 1990 and is presented in black with contrasting white roof and body decals. The car boasts 35,000 miles and four owners from new, remaining in the custodianship of the fourth owner for the past 18 years. Seeing infrequent use in the dry only during the last 11 years, the Mini been carefully stored in a dehumidified garaged and recently fully serviced and MoT’d (no advisories).
The bodywork is all in lovely condition and the Cooper decals are all still intact. The window rubbers all look to be original as they are showing some fading and wear, and the windscreen trim front and rear is a little tarnished. The rest of the chrome, however, is in very good order and the lights are a clear demonstration of its time indoors as the brakes and indicators retain strong colour. All four wheels have been newly refurbished and the car also benefits from two new front tyres (recommended Yohohama A539s).
Part of the Cooper RSP specification was an uprated interior with Tudor Webasto sunroof, half leather interior, red leather-bound steering wheel and a three-clock binnacle with green dials. It’s all present and correct here and, in line with the mileage, showing very little wear.
The engine bay displays the same level of originality as the rest of the car. Fresh from its recent service, the engine fires up without any problems and drives well, changing gear smoothly with none of the synchro issues that can affect this gearbox.
A fine original example of the rare and desirable special edition that reintroduced the Mini Cooper name.
This Rover Mini Cooper RSP is now sold.
SIMILAR QUALITY CLASSIC MINIS WANTED
We are currently seeking to purchase genuine quality classic Minis. Nationwide collection available. Please contact Phil on 01932 640113 or phil@pm-antiques.co.uk with any sales enquiries.