{"product_id":"1997-classic-rover-mini-1-3i-mpi-2","title":"1997 CLASSIC ROVER MINI 1.3i MPI","description":"\u003cp\u003eFirst registered by Dixon Rover, Grimsby on 7th August 1997, this charming Mini is finished in rare Volcano Orange, complemented by a contrasting stone beige ‘Balmoral’ interior trim. Power comes from a dependable 1275cc multi-point injection engine producing around 62bhp through a four-speed manual transmission. Features include 12-inch alloy wheels, a tweed and leatherette interior, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear knob, heater and ventilation controls, push-out rear windows, a burr walnut dashboard and a three-clock binnacle with magnolia-faced dials.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFollowing a brief period as the supplying dealer's demonstrator, the Mini was purchased from Dixon Rover on 20th August 1997 and has remained within the same family ever since. Now displaying just 8,433 miles, it passed to its latest custodian in February 2002 following the passing of their aunt. During the past twenty-four years it has only accrued approximately 1,000 miles, spending the vast majority of its life mothballed in the owner's garage. Letting go of the Mini was not an easy decision, owing to the strong sentimental attachment formed over almost three decades of family ownership. Ultimately, the decision to part with it was driven purely by lack of use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeing a retired engineer, the latest owner took great pride in maintaining and subtly improving the car. Shortly after acquiring it, they carried out some sympathetic alterations, including the fitment of a Mk1-style bonnet and grille, colour-coded wheel arches, a stainless steel exhaust, bumper overriders and burr walnut door cappings. A set of deep-dish alloy wheels was also fitted at the time, although the Mini now sits on 12-inch ‘Minilite’ alloy wheels shod with new tyres. The original bonnet and black ‘Special’ wheel arches accompany the car, allowing the next owner to revert back to standard if desired.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYears of careful ownership and indoor storage have clearly paid dividends in preserving this Mini. The Volcano Orange paintwork presents beautifully with a deep lustre and finish, while the body panels appear straight and well aligned. The original factory 'body' number is present on the bonnet slam panel, the inner wings display uniform spot welds, and correct body-colour vented sills are fitted on both sides. The chassis number is correctly stamped into the scuttle and etched into both the front and rear screens, while the original supplying dealer rear window sticker and tax disc holder all remain in situ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInside, the cabin is wonderfully preserved and has a genuine ‘timewarp’ feel. The seats, carpet and headlining remain in excellent condition with no visible tears or damage, with the rear seats appearing virtually untouched. Years of careful indoor storage have paid dividends in preserving the burr walnut dashboard and door cappings, which have resisted the fading, cracking and delamination that they so typically succumb to.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eElsewhere, the engine bay and boot are presented in commendable condition. On the road, the 1275cc multi-point injection engine feels strong and responsive, pulling cleanly through all four gears without any crunches upon changes. It drives exactly as a carefully maintained, low-mileage Mini should.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFreshly serviced, the Mini is accompanied by a history file dating back to first registration, including the original Dixon Rover order form and owners book pack. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Phil Mires Classic Cars","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57517456327029,"sku":null,"price":14995.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0835\/4788\/1784\/files\/IMG_6749.jpg?v=1787332979","url":"https:\/\/philmiresclassiccars.co.uk\/products\/1997-classic-rover-mini-1-3i-mpi-2","provider":"Phil Mires Classic Cars","version":"1.0","type":"link"}