After wanting one for years and years, I've finally procured a "classic" Mini. As these are quite rare in the States, and I have no prior frame of reference, I was hoping to get some confirmation as to what I've purchased here, and what exactly the previous owner(s) have done to the car...
It's a 1992 Rover Mini 1.3i, and there is an actual VIN plate in the engine bay on the right side of car that matches the importation paperwork. Everything appears to be on the up and up.
It's not an original creampuff—clearly someone mucked about with it. An aftermarket head unit has been stuffed into the glovebox and the rear speakers seem too large to be original. What's up with the dash?? It doesn't quite seem to fit, and there are two goofy screws flanking the speedometer. It also looks like the carpets don't quite fit...What is a questionable modification and what is late-Rover cost-cutting...?
There are a few seeps here and there, but there doesn't seem to be much rust to speak off, which is priority one. The seals around the windshield are cracking. I suspect this a prime vector for rust?
Any opinions on US-centric Mini forums? The ones I've found just don't seem to have much traffic (understandably). Any tips for removing the pin stripes cleanly?
In any event, I love this damn thing. It's so cool.
Edited by Tremelune, 30 March 2019 - 10:41 PM.
) in regards to the Springs, I think for many people the one aspect of the original rubber cones in that they do sag over about 5 - 7 years s what puts many off them. The Coil Springs are like they are in any other car in this one regards, but overall are very much inferior to the Rubber Springs for quality of ride and damping.
