Fulfilling the Mini Dream

The search for my dream Mini began mid-August, about 4 months ago. Through a network of connections, I was turned on to a fellow in West Chester who sells and works on Minis. Not having much luck searching on my own, I asked him to find a Mini close to my specifications. He showed me quite a few cars that weren't hitting the mark. Late September, he sent me photos of two Mini Mayfairs that were close to fitting the bill. Although they weren't exactly what I initially sought, I agreed to jump on one of them. Below are two photos of the car at that time.

Honestly, throughout this process, as I became more familiar with the differences between different Minis, and as I looked at more and more photos, my preferences changed. For example, I initially thought I wanted the sportpack wheel arches...but now I think they're just a bit "too much" for this car. I like the simplicity and more understated smaller arches. Other cosmetic things were going to be handled as per my request (color, wheels, etc.) so that wasn't a problem either. However, the only thing I was concerned about was the engine size.

This Mini Mayfair is powered by a 998cc engine. My MG Midget is a 1275. I think I'll be pleased enough with the performance for a year or two. They do have a "Stage 1 Kit" which includes a different exhaust manifold, inlet manifold, replacement carb needle and some other things depending on the kit. I've read it increases the power by 20%. Since everything is just bolt-on replacements, I think this would be a good project for me to tackle anyway. Down the road, of course. Not to mention, this will be my commuter car, my daily driver. The Midget will still be my fun weekend sports car.

But enough about that, as I don't actually have the car yet. As of early September, the following events took place.

1. The Brits fixed the minor rust spots, popped the dent in the boot, repainted the entire car in metallic Moonraker Blue (the original color), replaced the old bumpers with chrome bumpers, replaced the wheel arches, upgraded to the alloy wheels, and applied the decals and bonnet stripes. Also, as per my request, they painted the roof and mirrors white.

2. They shipped the car to the United States. The waiting was painstaking. It was close to a month before it shipped and cleared customs. Below are two photos of the guys loading the car to take to the port.

3. Upon arrival, the seller looked the car over and was unsatisfied with the paint job. So he took the initiative to get it repainted. Although I appreciate his commitment to quality, and his decision to not try and slip it by me, a part of me wishes he would've told me about the paint problem before proceeding. I might have wanted a slightly different shade of blue. However, the fact that I had missed TWO opportunities to select my own shade, I'm convinced that I'll love the car as is. I also like that it's original and that it's rare (I haven't yet come across the color when perusing the web for Mini photos). However, I did take this opportunity to tell him to nix the pinstripes and side/rear "Mayfair" decals. I'm also swapping the bonnet badge to the more popular "winged" Mini logo at no extra charge.

So as of now, I'm awaiting a reply from the seller as to where we're at with things. He still has to perform the LHD conversion. And he mentioned that now would be a good time to upgrade the stereo if I wanted. However, I think I might heed Greg's advice and wait on that. Maybe save up some money and do up the system real nice-like.