1968 AUSTIN MINI MOKE

This 1968 Austin Mini Moke is an award-winning, low-mileage example of the cult favourite recreational vehicle, presented in immaculate condition following a full nut-and-bolt restoration. It is powered by an 848cc inline-four engine, which drives the front wheels via a four-speed manual gearbox. The odometer shows just 27,079 miles.

A Mk2 Moke, as indicated by its dual windscreen wipers, this car was first registered on 1 March 1968 and is offered for sale by its third owner, who has been its custodian for more than 35 years, travelling some 16,000 miles in that time.

Designed by the same team behind the original Mini, Sir Alec Issigonis and John Sheppard, the Mini Moke was first intended for use as a military vehicle before finding its place as a civilian passenger car – hence its rugged and no-nonsense styling.

Extensively restored from the ground up, this example’s bodywork and Old English White paintwork are immaculate, with absolutely no signs of damage or corrosion, even inside the exposed wheel arches and on the underbody.

Similarly, the engine bay and green vinyl roof are in excellent condition, as are the glass headlight lenses, which are bright and free of any cracks or chips.

The car rides on colour-matched 10-inch steel wheels, which are similarly pristine. No surprise, then, that it was awarded ‘Best Moke in Europe’ at the 2017 International Mini Meeting.

Turning to the utilitarian interior, the painted metal surfaces are in superb condition, as are the original gauges, steering wheel and gear lever. The vinyl seat pads, which have been colour-coded to match the dark green vinyl hood, are in as-new condition. The seller notes absolutely no faults with the electrics and switchgear.

In keeping with its exemplary condition, this car has been particularly well cared-for and maintained. It received a major mechanical overhaul at 21,000 miles, when the engine was fully rebuilt.

The quality and accuracy of this Moke’s restoration is to be applauded, with every part and detail seemingly having been attended to. Given its age, this vehicle is MOT exempt. Its 10-inch wheels are shod with brand new 165/70 R10 Falken FK-07E tyres.

An increasingly rare sight, either on the road or in collections, the Austin Mini Moke is a unique vehicle, with bags of charm and an excellent pedigree. Fully restored but retaining its original, unmodified specification, this example appears as-new and could have rolled off the production line yesterday – despite being built more than 50 years ago. It is guaranteed to bring a smile to the face of its next owner, and indeed anybody it passes by.

All cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.