The classic Mini is the quintessential underdog, having stayed relevant for its 40-year production run. Noted for its short, stout stance, low overhangs, and grippy front-wheel drive, this 1994 is desirable based on its options, and insanely low verified miles. This Rover built Mini embodies the look and sporty nature of the iconic models from the 1960s, with a more modernized interior and more creature comforts. The secret to Mini's success was a tried and true philosophy: the tried and true formula of delivering great fuel economy, a roomy interior, an inexpensive cost of ownership, and go-kart handling. Finished in Chili red, with matching body-colored flares and a cream roof, the paint gleams, and the clear coat is lustrous. Sans the normal dings, scuffs, and scratches associated with daily driving, this MK V generation two-door is a super clean little saloon, and it has only 30K miles on the odometer. Featuring some neat factory and aftermarket add ons, our Rover offers one hell of an inspired drive when behind the wheel.

As surprising as this might sound, the passenger compartment is impressively roomy for this dinky exterior dimensions. The wheels were pushed out to the corners, creating a large floor plan to accommodate four adults. Both seats hinge upward to provide ample space to load passengers and cargo in the rear. A sizable boot contains a brand new battery and additional cargo storage. An interesting option for the JDM models was the addition of factory air conditioning, and this particular one blows cold! The Mayfair package provides some exclusive adds, including rear door card storage pockets, special black checkered seats with red piping, and special carpets with matching door cards Upgrades include wood trim on the door handles, window cranks, and door pulls, plus a wood grain shift knob and matching grain wheel. The old owner has removed the plastic interior dash trim and replaced it with carpeted, unobstructed dash storage, like the older mini generations. The interior is otherwise unapologetically spartan, saving on complexities that can break in other 25-year-old cars. The OEM radio functions as it should, and powers the speakers of the vehicle properly. Additionally, the headliner is nearly perfect and free of any sags or rips. Of note, the rear seats have some missing thread around the top seam, and normal material wear for a car of this age. Other than that, this Mini has everything you need. Manual locks, fender mirrors, and roll down windows make the ownership experience relatively worry-free, and parts availability is abundant here in the USA. As all classic mini owners are aware, the cute factor goes only so far, but these cars have a true sports car pedigree.

The secret sauce that was key to the success of the cooper was a combination of traits. Starting with the power plant, this 1275cc mill moves the car down the road without any issues getting up to US highway speeds. It is happy to cruise at highway speeds and is the ultimate city runabout. As the old British car adage goes, if there is no oil on the ground there is none in the motor. Practically, this engine does have the normal seeps and leaks that coopers traditionally have, however, there is nothing significant that would affect drivability. To boot, a fresh oil and filter service ensures the engine is happy for another three thousand miles. Boasting a feather-light curb weight, and a close-ratio four-speed manual transmission, the car accelerates much faster than its automatic brethren or smaller displacement Coopers. Shifts are smooth and direct, and the custom polished exhaust sounds really throaty. So that the next owner need not worry about carb-tuning, the 1275cc mill also features Electronic Fuel Injection. Besides the benefit of a more fun 1275cc driving experience, these vehicles easily achieve 40 mpg and aren't terribly temperamental. Braking happens quickly and has always been a focal point of racing in these cars. Handling is flat, and there are few vehicles designed in this era that handle so impressively. The hydroelastic suspension gives a no-nonsense connected feel, and the cooper baubles the pavement around firmly but feels reassured.

Owning the original road legal go-kart is a blast. The reflexive chassis, fuel efficiency and legendary underdog persona make this a perfect turn-key classic for the Mini enthusiast.

*California Residents: In order to register a Grey Market vehicle in the state of California then it will have to be made CARB complaint first. CARB certifications will have to be performed within the state. Depending on the vehicle and any existing modifications will affect the pricing. Typically CARB compliance will range between 5-10K. Additional information can be found on the California Air Resources Board website.