This 1961 Morris Mini-Minor is a fantastic example of a very early shell Mini. It has lived it's life in Texas and has been owned by the same family since the 60's. After falling into disrepair in the 1990s, it was finally sent to us last year to get back running. Unfortunately the owner is loosing his eyesight, and needs to find a good home for his beloved Mini. So if you love the look of the original patina and have been searching for a straight Mk1 that is mechanically sound- here is your chance.

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The exterior of this Morris is a time capsule. Stored indoors in Texas, it is still wearing it's original paint, with the perfect amount of patina poking through. Although it has a couple tiny dings and the bumpers have been used, the shell is in great condition and super straight. As for rust, being a Texas car it is solid. Although there is a slight bit in the drivers floor pan, the remainder of the car is solid. The battery box was also recently replaced, and fuel tank cleaned out. All original trim is still present with the exception of the mustache and whisker trim. 

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Inside the Texas heat has taken it's toll. The seats have been recovered in the past, with the original seat frames being present but upholstery itself long gone. Original floor covering has been replaced by some cut to fit carpet, and door cards are basic vinyl. The original speedometer pod has been replaced with S type 3 clock, and some damage to the parcel liner is seen. Headlining is still in and in ok shape, and the original heater is also present, although currently bypassed due to a leaking core. A new steering wheel is also installed for much more leg room. This Mini would benefit greatly with just a basic monte carlo interior kit, and would be a very cheap way to improve it drastically.

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Underhood the original anemic 848cc engine and magic wand gearbox were swapped for a far better 998 and 4 synchro remote gearbox. Both freshly rebuilt in house here at Wild Child, including new high compression pistons, unleaded head with bigger valves, and a Swiftune SW5 camshaft for much more midrange and upper end power. The gearbox has all new synchros and bearings, with a new clutch and resurfaced flywheel. Don't be afraid to take it out in summer, because we also fitted out famous Mega-Cool cooling system kit, along with a 6 blade tropical fan. A brand new factory type exhaust system is installed, along with a larger HS4 carburetor for more power. The complete drum brake system was overhauled, with new shoes, wheel cylinders, master cylinder, and hoses. We also rebuilt the hubs and replaced ball joints. The pancaked cones were also replaced with fresh supple ones, along with HiLos and new bushes and shocks for a very smooth ride. Even the steering rack was swapped for a new one, and this Mini drives great down the road. Everything is running on the original steelies with fresh 145R10 Falken tires. 

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This is an excellent choice for any Mini enthusiast, especially one searching for a very early shell. With all the work that has been done, what's not to love? Either completely restore it, or throw an interior in and enjoy it. No need to worry about mechanicals as they have all been professionally done. Let us know if you are interested, and if we can help make this Mini your dream come true.