1981 | Austin Mini Van

The 1959 Mini needs no introduction; it is arguably Britain’s most iconic car ever. The Mini Van was introduced just a year later, in 1960, based on the longer Mini Traveller estate chassis. As it was classified as a commercial vehicle, with a quarter-ton load capacity, it carried no sales tax and was cheaper than the Mini saloon. In order to cut the cost of production, it featured a simple stamped steel front end instead of a more costly grille. It remained in production virtually unchanged until 1983, with more than 520,000 being built. As with all Mini Vans, this 1981 car retains features from 1960s' Minis, including the sliding side windows and hollowed-out door panels with roomy stowage compartments. It also has the unpainted dashboard crossmember and even retains external door hinges as on the Mk1 and Mk2 Minis.

This example is completely restored in 2020 including a full engine and gearbox rebuild. It has a sporty appearance with Cooper style roof with contrasting colour and semi-competition 'Rose Petal' alloys fitted with Dunlop SP Sport 165/70R10 tyres. The car looks absolutely stunning and is a guaranteed eye-catcher as a promotional vehicle for any trendy business. The car was also used in this way by the last owner, and he received nothing but thumbs-up reactions. The current advertising consists of stickers and can be easily removed to make way for new lettering.

Finding a Mini Van in this restored condition is rare, and it is a relatively inexpensive and extremely appealing way to put your business in the spotlight. So what are you waiting for?