Mini Cooper S / MK2

Original Cooper S/MK2, 4-speed manual, right-hand drive

Let us introduce the Austin Mini Cooper S / MK2.

Three years after the Mini Cooper was born in 1961 from an idea by racing constructor John Cooper, the Cooper S—with even greater racing capabilities—made its debut.Building on the Mini Cooper’s impressive motorsports track record up to that point, the Cooper S’s engine displacement was increased to comply with the regulations of various racing categories.
In October 1967, the model evolved into the MK2. The front grille became more angular, and the rear window was widened.In addition, parts of the body were modified, including larger taillights. To match these changes, the Cooper S’s displacement was increased to 1,275 cc, making it arguably the most powerful version in the Cooper S lineage.

This vehicle is a 1968 Cooper S/MK2, which can truly be called that most powerful version.The previous year, Cooper’s works team had suffered a narrow defeat at the hands of the Ford Anglia, with which they had been locked in a fierce battle. In 1968, however, Downton Engineering equipped the car with a fuel injection system and an engine tuned to the absolute limit, and under the skillful driving of seasoned Mini driver John Rose, the team reclaimed the championship.Its breathtaking performance and fierce battles have become the stuff of legend in the British motorsports scene. Later, as the 1970s began, the Mini’s success gradually came to an end due to rivals’ increasing performance and budget cuts in motorsports resulting from BMC’s deteriorating financial situation.

　However, despite being designed in the 1950s, no other car has achieved such outstanding results in motorsports for over 20 years as this Mini Cooper. Its fundamental performance—capable of handling the power of a powerful engine whose displacement was increased to nearly 1.3L—can be attributed to the genius of its designer, Alec Issigonis.

　This vehicle is an unmistakable Cooper S manufactured in 1968, and it retains an exceptionally high degree of originality. The engine, carburetor, and interior are all original.The body has been restored once, so there are no concerns about damage or corrosion, and it remains in excellent condition. Its driving dynamics still make a powerful impression today: strong torque steer, power sufficient to induce wheel spin, and a performance that demands a skilled driver—this is a world unique to the Cooper S.

　Today, due to its rarity, the Cooper S continues to see its value skyrocket year after year as a collector’s item, and importing them from overseas has become increasingly difficult. Furthermore, with the explosive rise in popularity of classic Minis in markets such as Southeast Asia in recent years, they are becoming increasingly hard to come by even within Japan.

　This particular car was manufactured at the factory on October 7, 1968. It subsequently passed from the UK to an owner in Malta, Italy, and arrived in Japan in Heisei 8. It has won numerous awards in its home country, and its history—including restoration records—is well-documented.

　We invite you to come and see this rare, original Cooper S/MK2 for yourself.