1966 Morris Mini Cooper S 1275
1966 Morris Mini Cooper S 1275
Lot details
Year: 1966
Make: Morris
Model: Mini Cooper S 1275
Registration: PUB 416D
Chassis No: KA2S4851026
Odometer: tba
• Period competition history at Jarama, Monaco and Montjuïc Park
• Comprehensive engine and gearbox rebuild incorporating Swiftune components
• Sympathetically restored
Few British motor cars have earned such an enduring reputation as the Mini Cooper S. Combining compact dimensions, responsive handling and spirited performance, it became a favourite with enthusiasts and competition drivers alike. The Mini's ingenious layout provided the foundations, while the association with John Cooper helped transform the small family saloon into a formidable sporting contender. On both rally stages and racing circuits, the Cooper S demonstrated that agility and balance could challenge considerably larger and more powerful opposition, establishing a competition pedigree that remains central to its appeal today.
The 1275 Cooper S is closely associated with this reputation. Its performance appealed to private entrants as well as established teams, and many examples enjoyed competition careers in the hands of enthusiastic owner-drivers. Surviving cars with a documented connection to those years offer a interesting insight into the period, especially where photographs and contemporary records preserve the story of the individual behind the wheel.
First registered in June 1966, this Morris Cooper S, chassis number 851026, is described as a genuine UK home-market 1275 Cooper S, purchased new by Mr Francisco Navarro. A Spanish privateer with a considerable enthusiasm for motorsport, Mr Navarro subsequently moved to Spain, taking the Morris with him. The car became an important part of his sporting life, accompanying him to a variety of racing venues and remaining in his ownership long after its competition days had ended.
According to the accompanying history, Mr Navarro was an experienced and capable driver who competed extensively in the Cooper S, with appearances at venues including Jarama, Monaco and Montjuïc Park. Its history file contains a collection of period photographs, together with records from the Automobile Club de Monaco and the Jarama Circuit archives. Among the surviving photographs, one image depicts Mr Navarro leaning against the bonnet at Jarama, with his trophy alongside him. The photographs are complemented by archival material recording details of his participation.
Of particular interest are the records relating to a race at Jarama in March 1969. The supplied history states that Mr Navarro completed 15 laps against opposition which included Lotus Cortinas, BMW Tis and other Minis. His qualifying time was recorded as two minutes 17 seconds, with only four cars in his class setting faster times. As Mr Navarro grew older, the Cooper S was placed into storage in his barn in Almeria. Following his death, ownership passed to his wife, and the car was subsequently sympathetically restored by the family in Spain. Alongside this work, the documents and historical records relating to its earlier life were preserved.
The most recent keeper, a UK resident, travelled to Spain and met the Navarro family before purchasing the Morris and arranging its return to the UK. Acquiring the car directly from the family enabled the transfer of the accompanying historical material. Once the Cooper S was back in Britain, its new owner continued compiling the extensive history file while undertaking further work to its mechanical components. The car was entrusted to ALLITT Motor Services for a comprehensive engine and gearbox rebuild and upgrade incorporating Swiftune components. As part of this work, the engine was bored to 1300cc and fitted with a Swiftune SW5-07 camshaft and valve springs. New pistons, a timing chain, oil pump, water pump and bearings were installed, with the necessary machining carried out to the engine components.
The rebuild also included a new clutch, while the flywheel, clutch and crankshaft were balanced. Hardy Spicer differential outputs were incorporated into the specification, and an accompanying dyno printout records an output of 77.8bhp. This programme of work complements the earlier restoration. Since then, the Morris has been carefully maintained and dry stored. The vendor reports that both the paintwork and interior present very well, retaining an attractive patina.
Accompanied by its extensive history file, period photographs and archival records, this Morris offers the opportunity to acquire a Cooper S with a fascinating privateer competition background. Its long association with Francisco Navarro, documented racing appearances and subsequent return to the United Kingdom combine to make it an appealing example of one of Britain's most celebrated sporting saloons. Consigned by Mathew Priddy
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