9 replies to this topic

[soutermcgavin]

Hi all,

 

I am looking at getting my first classic mini and wanted to gauge your thought on original v modified. My preference, styling wise, would usually include some external modifications such as arches, alloys etc. I know that isn't everyone's preference but I prefer that look over the totally original styling.

 

I know a classic mini, completely original, would likely hold value or even appreciate if kept in good condition but would a modified mini lose value, or

would it still hold its value if well maintained?

 

Ultimately I want it for my own enjoyment but also keen to get an idea of potential resale, if I chose to sell it on at some point in the future.

 

This is the style that I like:

 

Marketplace – 1993 Rover Mini Cooper | Facebook

 

although I would expect the following, more original cooper to be a better bet financially:

 

Marketplace – 1994 Rover Classic Mini | Facebook

 

Have I got this right?

 

Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

[Speedymad]

I feel the market has changed in that more people want 'original' cars as they are looking more for long term investment and that is across all years and models.

 

My view is that the car is to be driven and enjoyed, if that means making it feel more personal to you then do it.  You could always keep the original parts to be sold on should you ever chose to in the future.

 

My wife bought our Mini in 1995, I still have the original seats but many of the original parts have long gone.  It was bought as a daily driver, driven 10,000's of miles, was involved in an accident so was rebuilt with a new shell, the original engine went bang, new engine lasted a further 50K then another one in 2007 (car only done a few thousand since).

 

If we had kept it original, under cover and not driven, then it would probably worth twice what it is now.  But our family would not have the memories we have with the adventures the car has taken us on.  Personally would sooner have those memories than a car that wasn't used

 

But then to contradict myself I wouldn't want to use something like a MK 1,2 or 3 Cooper/S on a daily basis. I would prefer it be original or looking as original with some rose petals or similar wheel changes as an example but then it would only get used for special occasions and would be an investment.  I am sure there is a chance in a few years that the later model cars will increase in value.  

Edited by Speedymad, 02 August 2023 - 10:20 AM.

[sonscar]

I have two hideously modified MGBs and love looking at them and driving them.I have a 1989 Racing Green standard and it has been in my garage for four years undriven.Take from that what you will.Steve..

[stuart bowes]

those sort of mods are so easy to change back and forth I wouldn't worry about it affecting the value

 

if when it comes to selling it you're having trouble because of the mods, then just change them back again, it's not like you're talking about a crazy engine swap or actual physical bodywork modifications 

 

probably the best thing to increase or help to keep the value high is to maintain / repair the paintwork and replace / repair anything that has rust on it

 

other than that though I agree with both of the above, it's there to be driven and enjoyed, worrying about value really isn't what cars should be about (in my opinion anyway)

Edited by stuart bowes, 02 August 2023 - 07:44 PM.

[soutermcgavin]

Thanks all, I agree with all points. I want a mini for enjoyment and to drive, when the time comes to buy one, I will be looking for the style that appeals to me the most, regardless of potential future resale values.

[Cooperman]

The key to the acceptability of modifications is whether they are 'period mods'.

Thus an early Mk.1 Mini would not look right with 13" wheels and huge wheel arch extensions, whilst a very late car would possibly have these as standard.

A 'period modified' car will be as valuable as a totally standard one, although the 'special editions' need to be very original to maintain their value. For example, a totally standard Mini 30 is probably worth up to £14,000 in top condition, but if 'molested; it might be worth a lot less.

However, in all cases, it is your car and what you do to it is your own business and it's whatever gives you pleasure from your classic ownership.

If you like it, get it  .

[DeadSquare]

I won't go so far as to say that you'll be unlikely to find one that hasn't been modified, but given a choice, in your case, pick the modified one and leave the unmodded one for someone who wants one.

[Chris1275gt]

Buy one, do whatever you want to do with it, enjoy doing it and the most important thing is DRIVE it regularly and ENJOY IT !! If you want to see a mini in pristine just out of the factory condition isn’t that what museums are for!! financially like most owners you’ll spend a fortune on it and never get it back and don’t forget there are no pockets in a shroud.

[Bobbins]

Enjoy your Mini and do what you want to it, but remember a reliable Mini is worth more to you both financially and mentally than one that’s broken down. Plan your mods carefully because that’s where it’s all too easy to create unreliability.

[bluequinn]

A lot of the parts that Longbridge fitted to the car as standard were cheap and nasty to keep the price down, like the standard arches, plastic door furniture, etc. I don't think there is anything wrong with replacing stuff with better. (but some people do seem to replace with worse!)

 

It's such a basic car, and throughout its life it was always modified. Just try not to ruin it and you'll be fine :-D