In the heart of Mini Sport's workshop, a special project is unfolding that promises to captivate classic car enthusiasts around the globe. In collaboration with the hit television series, Bangers and Cash: Restoring Classics, we've embarked on an ambitious journey to restore a Mk2 1969 Morris Mini Cooper 998cc, which first hit the road in 1969 after being purchased from a dealership in Wolverhampton. This project is not just a restoration; it's a revival of a legend, a story of passion, precision, and dedication to the heritage of classic Mini Coopers.
Restoring a Legend: The Journey of a Morris Mini Cooper with Bangers and Cash
The Arrival:
The journey began in October 2023, when a trailer adorned with the Bangers and Cash logo rolled into Mini Sport, delivering a piece of automotive history. The Island Blue Mini Cooper with its Snowberry White roof arrived, ready for a new lease on life. This moment marked the beginning of a project filled with anticipation and excitement.
Phase 1: Disassembly and Diagnosis:
The first step in the restoration process involved a meticulous disassembly. The wiring loom was carefully removed, revealing the skeleton of a vehicle that had seen better days. As we removed the front panel and original floor, the extent of wear and rust became apparent, providing our team with a clear understanding of the challenge ahead.
Phase 2: Rebuilding and Restoration:
With the car disassembled, the true craftsmanship began. Starting with the placement of new panels, including inner wings and the floor, each piece was selected and fitted with precision. Rusty panels were removed, and new ones were fabricated to match the original specifications, ensuring the Mini would retain its authentic charm
The process of fitting more panels, including the back side and boot floor, was undertaken with a keen eye for detail. As the final welding and body prep began, the car started to take shape, transforming from a shell into a recognisable Morris Mini Cooper.
Phase 3: Priming, Painting, and Perfection:
Body and interior priming followed, setting the stage for the painting phase. The exterior shell received a fresh coat of Island Blue paint, meticulously applied to match its original glory. The interior was revitalised, and the undercarriage was coated to protect against future corrosion, ensuring the Mini would be enjoyed for years to come.
The subframes were rebuilt with the same attention to detail, rounding off the restoration process. Each component was carefully selected and installed, ensuring that the Mini would not only look stunning but perform impeccably.
Follow the Journey:
This blog series aims to take you behind the scenes, offering insights into the craftsmanship, challenges, and triumphs of restoring a classic Mini Cooper. From the initial arrival to the final touches, we'll share the story of bringing this automotive legend back to life.
Looking Ahead:
As we continue with the restoration, we invite you to join us in anticipation of the big reveal in early May. Follow us on our social media channels and stay tuned to our blog for updates, stories, and a front-row seat to the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into every aspect of this project.
Restoring a classic Mini Cooper is a journey of passion and precision. In collaboration with Bangers and Cash: Restoring Classics, Mini Sport is not just restoring a car; we're preserving a piece of automotive history. We look forward to sharing this journey with you, celebrating the heritage of the classic Mini, and ultimately, finding this iconic vehicle a new home and a loving owner.
Stay tuned for more updates, and don't forget to watch the story unfold on Bangers and Cash: Restoring Classics.
Get in touch with our team today to discuss your Mini dreams. We're more than just mechanics and engineers; we're enthusiasts like you, dedicated to keeping the spirit of the Mini alive and thriving.
Contact: sales@minisport.com