1999 classic rover mini 40 (coming soon)

The Mini 40 was unveiled in 1999 to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the iconic Mini, with just 250 examples allocated to the UK market. Available exclusively in Island Blue, Mulberry Red or Old English White, it represented one of the most luxurious and comprehensively specified production Minis ever built by Rover. Distinguished by unique anniversary decals, gold-plated Mini badging, twin spot lamps and Sportspack alloy wheels and arches, the Mini 40 combined distinctive and understated styling with exceptional road presence. Inside, the cabin featured a colour-coordinated leather interior, an engine-turned finish dashboard and leather-trimmed controls, creating a fitting tribute to four decades of Mini production.

First registered on 10th September 1999, this particular Mini 40 is one of just 50 examples produced in Island Blue for the home market and boasts a wonderful provenance.

The story of its acquisition began at the famous ‘Mini @ 40’ anniversary celebrations held at Silverstone in the summer of 1999, where Rover displayed one example of each Mini 40 colour. Captivated by the Island Blue car, the owner immediately attempted to place an order, only to be informed that all examples had already been allocated. Undeterred, they asked to be placed on a reserve list should a cancellation arise. A few weeks later, they received an unexpected telephone call from Rover advising that an Island Blue Mini 40 had become available due to an administrative error involving a dealership allocation. The opportunity was too good to miss and they travelled straight to Diamond Rover, Hatfield to secure the car.

The Mini remained with that same enthusiast owner ever since, covering just 37,323 miles over 27 years. During that time, it became a familiar and highly regarded sight within the Mini community, participating in numerous events including Tower to Tower (Blackpool to Paris), London to Brighton runs and Mini Grand Tours in Devon. Many of the accompanying participant stickers remain as reminders of the adventures and memories created during its long-term ownership. It is clear that this was far more than simply a car to its owner and their family, making the decision to part with it an understandably difficult one.

The accompanying history file is among the most comprehensive I have encountered. It includes the original order form, bill of sale and handover documentation, follow-up correspondence from the supplying dealer, the original owner's book pack and service portfolio still preserved within its original plastic wrapping, a complete MOT history record, a collection of tax discs and pretty much every invoice from new. Also present is the original Mini 40 presentation case containing the die-cast model and commemorative registration book inscribed with the vehicle's details.

The cherished registration number V1 PJT was acquired specifically for the car prior to delivery and has been fitted from day one. Recognised by many within the Mini community, it has become an integral part of the car's identity over the past 27 years and is included in the sale. The registration also corresponds with the details recorded in the original Mini 40 presentation logbook, further reinforcing its place within the car's unique history.

The condition of this Mini is a testament to decades of meticulous ownership and careful maintenance. The car boasts an impressive MOT history, with no corrosion concerns recorded and advisory-free passes achieved at each of its last three MOT tests.

Years of loving care have paid dividends in preserving the car. The Island Blue paintwork presents beautifully with a deep, even finish throughout, complemented by straight, well-aligned panels. The original factory ‘body’ number is present on the bonnet slam panel, while the inner wings display consistent factory spot welds. Correct body-colour vented sills are present on both sides, the chassis number is correctly stamped into the scuttle panel and etched into both the front and rear screens, and the original supplying dealer number plates and tax disc holder remain in situ. The glass, chrome and trim are all in excellent condition, while the alloy wheels are fitted with recommended Yokohama A539 tyres.

Inside, the cabin is equally impressive. The colour-coordinated leather interior remains in excellent condition, reflecting both the low mileage and careful ownership. Original Mini-branded rubber mats remain present, while the seats, carpets and headlining are free from tears or damage. The leather steering wheel and gear knob display only a light and honest patina. Everywhere you look, the benefits of meticulous ownership and indoor storage are evident.

Elsewhere, the engine bay, boot and undercarriage are all clean and very well presented. On the road, this Mini performs exactly as it should. The 1275cc injection engine feels lively and responsive, pulling cleanly through all four gears, with smooth and precise changes.

Dates and mileages:

• 448 Miles (15/12/1999)
• 730 Miles (26/04/2000)
• 4,384 Miles (30/08/2002)
• 9,020 Miles (26/08/2003)
• 15,605 Miles (19/08/2004)
• 17,297 Miles (26/08/2005)
• 18,833 Miles (19/08/2006)
• 20,505 Miles (23/08/2007)
• 22,276 Miles (18/08/2008)
• 23,913 Miles (26/08/2009)
• 25,168 Miles (20/08/2010)
• 26,494 Miles (06/08/2011)
• 27,542 Miles (07/08/2012)
• 29,573 Miles (29/08/2013)
• 29,969 Miles (21/06/2016)
• 32,114 Miles (26/08/2017)
• 33,306 Miles (06/07/2018)
• 34,399 Miles (13/06/2019)
• 34,627 Miles (29/10/2020)
• 35,418 Miles (15/10/2021)
• 35,768 Miles (09/12/2022)
• 36,174 Miles (19/12/2023)
• 36,467 Miles (29/11/2024)
• 37,314 Miles (10/12/2025)
• 37,323 Miles (02/06/2026)

A collector-quality Mini 40 with exceptional provenance and a fascinating ownership story. Rarely do examples of this calibre come to market.