1969 Austin Mini Cooper 1275S 'Works' Replica

First owner; took delivery via H A Saunders of London. Later became service manager at a BMC/BLMC/Austin-Rover dealership in Luton. Kept the car for approximately fifteen years before selling.

Purchased the car in mid-1983 in poor condition and undertook a major body and mechanical restoration. Subsequently used it on historic rallies before selling it after it was spotted in a showroom by the next owner.

Known as 'Stormin' Norman', a prominent historic racer who competed regularly in Minis and Morris Minors. Frequently co-driven by Barry 'Whizzo' Williams, the pair were noted competitors at the Goodwood Revival St Mary's Trophy.

Used the car regularly on the road until 2017, at which point he commissioned a complete strip-down and rebuild into a Works rally replica specification. Described as the owner prior to the current vendor.

Peter Valentine co-drove with veteran national-level driver Cec Offley. Early retirement followed a collision, after which the car was repatriated to England for repair.

Norman Grimshaw competed regularly with co-driver Barry 'Whizzo' Williams; described as a formidable and frequently victorious pairing at this event.

Full strip-down of a heavily corroded shell; bodywork sent to Bourne Brothers in Arlesley for comprehensive rebuilding including rust remediation and repair to a damaged front wing.

Work took approximately one year; shell returned in August 1984.

Engine rebuilt and bored out to 1330cc; dry suspension conversion and fitment of adjustable SPAX dampers also carried out around this time.

Five-inch Minilite-replica wheels, Group 2 narrow wheel-arch extensions, and bucket seats also fitted.

Front-end collision damage repaired at Bourne Brothers using a full vehicle alignment jig; replacement of both wings, front panel, inner wings, one A-panel, and the screen scuttle panel. A new sub-frame was seam-welded and strengthened, and brakes and driveshafts were transferred from the original assembly.

Damage sustained during the Pirelli Classic Marathon; described as a top-class rebuild.

Complete strip and rebuild to Works rally replica specification: engine fully rebuilt to competition tune producing 80 bhp at 5,300 rpm, competition straight-cut ONJ gearbox fitted, period-correct Works switchgear and dashboard installed, roll-cage added, new wiring loom fitted with electronic ignition and Kenlowe fan, and exterior finished in Competition Department Tartan Red with white roof and black interior.

Engine output documented in the history file. The rebuild was commissioned with the aim of faithfully replicating a mid-1960s factory rally car.