Bought a mini -

[Por911T]

Hi folks - Last week I got an unexpected opportunity to buy a mini . A friend was looking to sell it mainly due to the imminent arrival of his new Audi RS 4. So....... I made a hasty impulse purchase ! It has an interesting story - it's a 1996 Cooper 35 - a limited edition anniversary model to celebrate John Coopers 35th years in business . Completely rot/rust/ blemish free finished in Almond green / white roof / black minilite wheels . Spent its life in Japan - 30,000 kms fitted with factory air conditioning . What a hoot to drive !

Can anyone shed any light on this model ? Is it common place to re-import japanese minis back into the Uk ? Any advise / input / feedback on this model is very much appreciated .

Regards , Barry ( Glasgow )

[Steffan]

That sounds an exceptionally nice car. I would immediately arrange application of the best rust proofing system that you can find. All Minis rust in the UK the ambient damp is a killer on inadequately protected cars in the UK. Enjoy the car sounds superb there are occasional imports and you got one. Make the most of it by getting it protected. Good Luck

[Fatboy]

Congratulations, sounds like an absolute beauty (pics please!!!)

Another vote for getting some proper rustproofing on it sharpish - not just a can of waxoyl, something like these guys:

Rustbuster Hot Fog Wax Treatment

A lot of money at first, but wil save you a fortuine long term! And protect a classic special edition!

[Por911T]

Here is the car in question ......... now the nice connection is the fact this is a Cooper '35' and our family business has been trading 35 years this very month ! Hence the number 35 on the doors - a bit of company promo . I'll send another .....

[Por911T]

David & Goliath !

[Por911T]

Should have said that the car has already been fully and professionally waxoiled and undersealed .

[Fatboy]

Looks like a beauty!

Por911T said:

Should have said that the car has already been fully and professionally waxoiled and undersealed .

Good to hear You can never have too much rustproofing on a mini though, I swear the little buggers would rust in deep space

[sprocketman01]

Check if it has had inner wheel arch liners fitted if not fit them immediately!! Mini Spares or Dereks Mini Centre will help with slowing the rust down. (Although the Jap Spec cars are generally better treated underneath than the UK cars are.

[Por911T]

Ah sprocketman - good call ................... an angle that I hadn't thought of ! Thanks for that very handy snippet ! Cheers

[anthonysjb]

Yeah very nice the 35s are, hopefully my next Mini!