4 replies to this topic

[Cooperman]

I just learned that one of the quickest Mini rally drivers from the 1970's has passed away. Cyril Bolton drove the Mini Sport car(s) during the early to mid-1970's and was very competitive.

In 1975 he finished 4th overall in the Motoring News Championship in the 1380 Mini. A fantastic result considering that the champion that year was in a Ford RS2000 with a Datsun 240Z in 2nd and another Escort in 3rd.

Supported by Mini Sport when it was owned by Brian Harper that Mini was really on-the-pace. Cyril was a really nice guy and fiercely competitive.

RIP Cyril.

 

[Avtovaz]

sad news... RIP... 

[mab01uk]

Rally Mini NCK - Nice one Cyril!

"Cyril’s car is without doubt the ultimate road rally Mini development. Like Terry Kaby’s stage car the Mini Sport Mini seems to be the confounding all those who every now and again leap up to announce the Mini’s competition career is over. By careful planning and preparation Cyril Bolton has produced the car that could well bring road rallying honours back to British Leyland.’" June 1976, "Cars and Car Conversions"

https://www.minispor...ersions"</span>

 

Edited by mab01uk, 02 September 2023 - 08:57 AM.

[Cooperman]

In the big Datsun 240Z with Kevin Videan we were not worried on the fast bits of road, or really rough bits, but when it was wet, twisty and tight, we knew Cyril would take a bit of time out of us. That was one very well-developed Mini and it had 12" front wheels and 10" rears, from memory.

[Aly-g]

Ah the memories all come flooding back, thanks for posting.

Anybody remember two brothers that used to road rally in the late 60s with a hillman husky ? They were very competitive as I remember.


Allan