464 replies to this topic

[Ben_O]

Evening all.

 

Today I have started the strip down of the next Mini restoration here at Mill Road.

 

This time it's a 1987 Mini Advantage that's been off the road since 2007.

 

It's pretty rough but upon inspection, the only welding it's ever had in its 33 years is a 4" x 10" plate on the n/s inner sill.

 

Plan is a full body restoration, mk1 style rear end and a colour change. Then a full overhaul of the running gear and a brake conversion to allow the fitment of 10" wheels.

 

Some details are still to be decided but that doesn't stop me starting on the body.

 

 

 

 

 

 

So far I have got as far as removing the interior, glazing and main wiring loom.

 

 

 

More to come next week.

 

Cheers

Ben

Edited by Ben_O, 10 July 2020 - 05:54 PM.

[JXC Mini GT]

Another nice project Ben, considering it's been off the road since 2007 it doesnt look too bad, but it will be interesting to see what you uncover and the transformation over the coming weeks.

[Ben_O]

Thanks John.

The photos do flatter it a lot.

The rear subframe is a crumbly mess as is the heelboard and sills.

it basically needs everything yours needed.

 

Cheers

Ben

[floormanager]

Wow that's a project Ben.  Looking forward to see the transformation.

[floormanager]

Just noticed, an Isle of WIght number plate too "DL"  Is it still a local car?

[Ben_O]

Just noticed, an Isle of WIght number plate too "DL"  Is it still a local car?

Certainly is.

One of the reasons the owner wants the car saved

Cheers

Ben

[cooperd70]

Another project to keep track of with the resulting spectacular restoration at the end of it...looking forward to see it's transformation Ben!

[Avtovaz]

nice to see another advantage being restored. will be watching.

[JAYSONIC 79 IOW]

Glad this projects underway Ben

[floormanager]

 

Just noticed, an Isle of WIght number plate too "DL"  Is it still a local car?

Certainly is.

One of the reasons the owner wants the car saved

Cheers

Ben

 

I've always wanted a mini with an Isle of Wight suffix.  Guess it's a throwback to my childhood holidays on IOW when I looked out for DL number plates.

[Revd]

Previous owner of my 'vantage lived on IoW, don't think he/she drove the car much - only 6300 from new. Paint is all original, I'm midway through 7.5 discs/10" wheel conversion plus hi-los red spot cones etc

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[slidehammer]

I like the Advantages I always thought they were a stylish limited edition. I know your work will be top draw, but it is a shame it isn't being kept standard as they are very rare now. Can't wait to see your progress with it all the same

[Ben_O]

I like the Advantages I always thought they were a stylish limited edition. I know your work will be top draw, but it is a shame it isn't being kept standard as they are very rare now. Can't wait to see your progress with it all the same

I like them too. I remember my mum having one around 2002 and to be honest, it didn't look much better than this one does now!

they are a rare sight now and it does raise questions over what is the right thing to do with it.

 

But like I explained to the owner when he was trying to decide whether or not to go original, it's your car to do with as you please, save the advantage specific parts and then it's only a few minor body mods and a respray away from being back to original.

After all, it will always say advantage on the log book.

 

Cheers

Ben

[Avtovaz]

that is the thing, in some way its being treated to some major love, and it will be back on the road again. With out this person spending the money, it would die probably.

 

But also there will be non of these limited editions left as they where soon, they will all be red and white, with the wrong grills, wrong back lights just like every other one. I wasnt looking for an advantage when i got mine, but it is a very good model, and i live the standard grills, and the 12" wheels.. cant wait to get it done!

[nicnoo]

Looking forward to another excellent build.

 

Love the look of the advantage, but will no doubt love the new look as much.

 

Whats the plan for the rear light conversion ? full rear panel or just the conversion plates ?