1968 MORRIS MINI DELUXE

This Morris Mini is a superb example of one of the most iconic classics ever built and a true pop culture icon. Having undergone a full restoration some eight years ago, lifting the bonnet now reveals a 1411cc engine originally taken from a 1275 GT, mated to a four-speed fully synchronised manual transmission. The odometer indicates 39,385 miles.

Produced in 1968 in Australia on behalf of British Motor Corporation this vehicle was sold by well-known BMC dealers Vaughan & Lane of Sydney who successfully campaigned Minis at the famous Bathurst racing circuit. The Morris Mini Deluxe was a new model for the Australian market and came with Hydrolastic suspension as standard, a key-operated starter, wind-up windows and bucket seats. Purchased by the current owner four years ago, they report a wonderful driving experience to match the period-correct looks.

The exterior presents in truly excellent condition and during the restoration the car was resprayed in the original Snow White. All of the body trims are in great shape, enhancing this Morris Mini’s period-correct appearance. The owner reports only very minor blemishes in the exterior finish, commensurate with the restoration having been done eight years earlier. All glass, mirrors and lights look great and operate as they should. There are no known electrical faults.

Inside the vehicle is a wonderful place to be with the black upholstery and trim in superb condition. The steering wheel has been replaced with a collectable Les Leston vintage wooden item – one of the very early examples of aftermarket accessories for the car industry. The hood lining does have some evidence of yellowing/staining, which is a common minor fault, attributed to the factory glue.

Lifting the bonnet reveals a very neat period-correct installation of the engine from a 1275GT, which was enlarged to 1411cc with a compression ratio of 10.5:1, and twin 1.5 inch SU carburettors. These improvements are supported by a four-speed synchro rod change gearbox. Additionally, the braking performance has also been attended to, with the fitment of Cooper S disc brakes providing excellent stopping power.

The vehicle underwent its most recent service in June 2020 at Mini Classic where the engine oil, filter and brake fluid were all replaced. In addition, the vehicle was treated to a brake overhaul with new calipers and pads. The car has travelled less than 300 kms since. The Mini had a roadworthy check on 23 February 2021 with no advisories and is registered in NSW until 28 December 2021. The tyres have ample tread, although have begun to harden slightly due to limited use.

Accompanying the car is a Morris Mini Deluxe sales brochure and the keys are presented in a pouch. There is also a comprehensive workshop manual and a range of receipts and documents, that detail some of the servicing history and upgrades that the vehicle has enjoyed. The boot also houses the spare wheel and tyre, as well as the tools as supplied to the current owner.

This 1968 Morris Mini Deluxe is a beautifully restored example of the iconic model with very good paintwork and a period-correct interior. It boasts a performance-enhancing engine and gearbox upgrade, with the braking power of a Cooper S to match. For the collector who enjoys spirited weekend driving with classic looks, this Mini should prove to be a thoroughly rewarding addition to their garage.

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This vehicle’s VIN has been checked against the Australian Personal Property Securities Register, and there is no security interest or other registration kind logged against the serial number. This vehicle has been checked through the Austroads NEVDIS system, and there are no markers under the written-off or stolen databases.