1973 Mini Classic Mini

INNOCENTI Coupe

4 - Cyl.

Manual

12H719X598

Clear

Gasoline

Rare Innocenti 1300 1973 Innocenti (Mini) MINI Rare Italian Version of the Mini Factory Left Hand Drive & Fully Synchronized 4-Speed Transmission Rebuilt Engine, Brakes, Upgraded Paint, Interior & Much More! ____________________________________________ PLEASE NOTE: Our listings sometimes get rather lengthy. However, we continually hear from out of state / out of country buyers (many of our clients) that they prefer the level of detail that we provide. However, if you are not prepared to read multiple pages of description, we ask that you review the "Specifications" on the car along with viewing the photos. Also, if you'd prefer, please call us at 925-846-1451 and we'll gladly discuss the Innocenti and answer any questions over the telephone, including about our Buy it Now policies. Yes, the Mini can be purchased prior to the end of the eBay auction. Again, please give us a call for details. ALSO, PLEASE NOTE: EACH TIME WE LIST A VEHICLE ON EBAY WE RECEIVE COMMENTS THAT THERE ARE NO PHOTOS OF THE INTERIOR, ENGINE, UNDERCARRIAGE, ETC. OF THE CAR. THERE ARE 100 PHOTOS OF ALL AREAS OF THE CAR BUT, WHEN YOU REACH WHAT APPEARS TO BE THE LAST PHOTO, YOU WILL NEED TO SCROLL TO VIEW THE REMAINING PHOTOS. IF YOU ARE STILL UNABLE TO SEE THE PHOTOS, PLEASE CALL US AND WE WILL PROVIDE A LINK FOR THE PHOTOS (IT IS A VIOLATION OF EBAY POLICY TO LIST THE URL ON THE EBAY LISTING). All of our photos are taken in natural light and we do not "Photo-Shop" or touch-up the photos in any way. The cosmetic quality of this 1973 Mini (both inside & out) is nice and the photos reflect the actual condition of the car. The "madness" is underway in the various auction venues around the country. We often times see a wide range of collectible cars / special interest cars sell for inflated amounts in the "heat of the moment." This car is offered at a VERY realistic price and, unlike bidding on cars in an auction environment, you will have the benefit of extensive information & history on the car prior to making a buying decision. Equally as important is the fact that Classic Cars Ltd. has been in business for 17+ years and enjoys an excellent national / international relationship with 600~ positive eBay feedback items. We can provide references in addition to those left by customers at Yahoo Reviews, Classic Cars Ltd. Pleasanton, CA. (Please enter this information in Google to read our reviews) THANK YOU! CLASSIC CARS LTD. 925-846-1451 MINI / INNOCENTI HISTORY We must first admit that we have a personal bias for what has become known as the "Classic Mini's." In our day (You know when you had to walk miles to school in the snow, etc.etc!) there was only one Mini and it was a classic.. even back then! These cars are great fun, have a wonderful history and put a smile on your face (and everyone else's!) each time you get behind the wheel. Mini's have been owned by everyone from Clint Eastwood to Steve McQueen along with a wide range of celebrities and automobile enthusiasts. They have racing history dating back to their introduction in 1959 and have always been known as "Giant Killers" beating significantly higher horsepower / higher performance cars on challenging road race circuits. We've been fortunate enough to have owned virtually all of the Mini "variants" over the years including basic Mini 850's, Cooper's, Cooper "S" cars, "Mokes", and even a customized convertible Mini. In fact, we have owned our personal '67 Mini Cooper "S" for over 20 years. However, over the course of over 25 years of Mini ownership, this is our first Innocenti and I must say; we're impressed. The car has all of the benefits of the original UK Mini and some really interesting, unique cosmetic and mechanical upgrades, as well. We were unaware of the extensive changes that had been made for the Italian version of the Mini but will do our best to point them out in this listing. We are confident that we will hear from other Innocenti aficionados with additional input on these wonderful Mini's and will pass that information along to you in the Question & Answer section of the eBay listing. INNOCENTI HISTORY In 1971, the Mini Cooper design was licensed in Italy by Innocenti and in 1973 to Spain by Authi (Automoviles de Turismo Hispano-Ingleses), which began to produce the Innocenti Mini Cooper 1300 and the Authi Mini Cooper 1300, respectively. The Cooper name disappeared from the UK Mini range at this time, as British Leyland (as it was by then) supposedly did not want to pay John Cooper royalties for the use of his name, so it was not seen again on Minis for nearly 20 years! As the Italian version of the infamous Mini / Mini Cooper/ the car was manufactured for the Italian marketplace so the car was a left hand drive (steering wheel on the "USA side") and represented a deluxe version of the Mini that was produced for England. The car contained a number of upgraded features including larger engines, upgraded interiors, full instrumentation dash boards, attractive badging and other desirable enhancements. From an outward appearance the cars remained the charm of the early Mini's along with the excellent handling characteristics that made the cars famous. However, from a drivability / performance perspective the cars were much more fun to drive as a result, in part, to engines with displacement that exceeded that of a stock, early Mini Cooper "S." INNOCENTI MINI 1965-1975 The best known of Innocenti's models, produced in a variety of specifications including the original "Mini Minor", the "Mini t" (Traveller) and "Mini Cooper", as featured here. The Innocenti versions were better constructed and more luxuriously appointed than their UK counterparts, and a few have found their way to these shores over the years. They can be identified by subtle diffences in the exterior styling including: Note: Since many parts were interchangeable between UK produced Mini's and Innocenti's some items on this car have been replaced / upgraded (front grill, steering wheel, wheels). ? Dual carbureted 1275cc+ power plant ? Fully synchronized 4-speed gear box ? Vent Windows ? Deluxe Interior ? Full complement of gauges (Six) ? Originally fitted with "Rostyle" type wheels ? Black plastic grill ? A square rear number plate aperture on boot ? Thicker headlamp rims ? Back up lenses incorporated into rear tail lights ? Steering wheel engraved ? Round side repeaters (Side marker lights) - A USA requirement by 1973 ? Unique & attractive Innocenti exterior badging The description under several of the photographs on our listing will provide additional information relative to the differences (improvements) between the "regular Mini" and the Innocenti. THIS 1973 MINI INNOCENTI - SUMMARY This Innocenti spent the majority of its life in beautiful, sunny Italy until it was brought to the U.S. by the son of its Italian family who resides in the San Francisco Bay area. When the car reached the U.S. shores it was properly licensed and titled in California where it has remained ever since. When the car was titled in California, the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) used the car's engine number for assigning a VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) to the car. Specifically, the car carries the California VIN # 12H719X598. This number (12H719) codes (matches) a 1973 Mini Innocenti engine with simplex cam drives and 11-stud head. It is fitted with an alternator and dual carburetors as was original and correct for a Mini Innocenti 1300. Every indication (including statements from the previous owner) suggests that the car has its original engine. Again, the car is titled using the car's engine number and it carries a clear, California title. For California buyers, the car is licensed and registered until January 8, 2012. Since its arrival in the United States several years ago, the Mini has received a number of mechanical and cosmetic improvements. Of course, the most noticeable change is a complete re-spray is a beautiful shade of bright red and the addition of "ghost" flames on the front hood and front portions of the doors. This treatment attracts considerable attention and adds a whimsical touch to one of the more unique vehicles on the street today. In addition to the paint / flames, the exterior is enhanced with period style, authentic Minilite wheels (expensive & lovely) along with classic front driving likes so often found on Mini's in the 1960's and 1970's. The Innocenti's stylish rear badging remains in place to distinguish it from the UK, Australian and other classic Mini's. This Innocenti has received the benefit of an interior refurbishment. The upgrades included custom recovering of the seats (front and rear) in a style similar to the original Mini Innocenti using the original seats. The carpeting was completely re-done and the car received the benefit of new seat belts (driver's side only). The headliner and sunvisors remain in excellent condition and the desirable 6 gauge dash panel (including functional tachometer) remains in place and unmodified. Mechanically, the engine was reportedly completely rebuilt by Rosetti Motors along with a number of related new / rebuilt engine components (water pump, radiator, etc.). Additionally, we are told that the Mini received new brake calipers and a rebuilt braking system. Other obvious replacements / improvements included a rebuilt power brake booster, alternator and tune-up components. The Mini also received ongoing mechanical attention as needed. The car runs and drives very well, stops and steers straight and does not exhibit any drivability issues. OVERALL CONDITION MECHANICAL / DRIVING IMPRESSIONS During the time that we've owned the Mini, we have hesitated to list it for sale. It has been great to have a Mini parked outside of our showroom and for use with local errands and on occasional weekend clear weather days. The Mini has been 100% reliable and trouble free. It starts easily when cold, using the manual choke, and also when it is up to normal operating temperature. The "vital signs" are displayed on the complete complement of Innocenti Italian gauges (Note: Italian gauge lettering) and all read well within acceptable ranges. Specifically, the oil pressure ("Olio") reads solidly between the middle and high has marks on the dial, the "Ampere" gauge reflects a fully functioning charging system, and the "Benzina" (Fuel) gauge accurately reflects the level of gas and the Acqua gauge (Temperature) remains below 90 degrees C. The gauges are very attractive, simple white on black background manufactured by Veglia. It is important to note that while the speedometer reads in KPH (Kilometers per Hour) it has been recalibrated so that the actual display shows MPH, not KPH. The tachometer is also fully functional and we believe this is the only series of Mini that came with a factory tachometer. The Mini runs and drives very well and accelerates strongly through all 4 gears. The larger Innocenti engine allows the Mini to be driven at speeds well in excess of posted limits (not that we encourage that kind of activity unless, of course, you are on an approved off road circuit) without the strain or "buzziness" often times experienced with small displacement engined Mini's. The car shifts well and all of the syncromesh gears are fully functional when going up or down the shift pattern. The Mini does not smoke, leak significant fluids, or make have any drive-line noise. We have information indicates that the entire braking system, including the power brake servo, was completely rebuilt within a few thousand miles. The brakes are excellent and stop the car straight and sure. The emergency brake is also functional. The car steers straight, stops straight and is a pleasure to drive, especially on the "twisties." The rear suspension on this Mini has been fitted with the "Hi-Lo" set up that allows for adjustability. The Mini is fitted with expensive ($250.00+), authentic Minilite alloy 10" wheels and older, very high quality Yokohama Advan 032-R tires that are showing signs of wear (cracking) from age, not use or abuse, and should be replaced. We should point out that various tires are readily available through Mini Mania and other Internet Mini suppliers. When it comes to the electrical system, the majority of the items are functional. Specifically, the lights, wipers, turn signals, tail lights and horn (button mounted on the side of the wheel) all work great. Even the heater fan and the rear window defroster work (at least the light for the rear window defroster comes on). Two of the toggle switches on the dash are nonfunctional and the dash was cut during the replacement of a new windshield wiper switch. It does not appear as if the windshield washer's work and the nozzle are missing on the left side of the car. The interior light even works using the manual switch on the interior headliner light! Finally, we're pleased to announce that the front large driving lights (and lower mounted small lights) also work. Even the rear license plate light works. Pretty good for a 38 year old Mini. COSMETIC - BODY, PAINT & INTERIOR The Mini is finished in a great color combination: bright red (similar to Porsche "Guards Red") with a tan vinyl & cloth interior. The exterior flames were applied when the car received a complete re-paint and clear coat was applied over the ghost flames resulting in totally smooth paint and a car that received both a base and clear coat of paint. We receive a lot of compliments on the ghost flames that start at the front of the car in a silver / silver red coloration and continue onto both front fenders and hood. The photos accurately show the flames that make this car stand out even more than other Mini's. Of course, should the ghost flames not be to the liking of the cars new owner, re-painting this 10ft. long car would be straight forward, especially considering the straight, damage free body. When the car was re-painted it received the benefit of new paint on the underside of the hood, front and rear door jambs and the top (painted white). While the paint quality is good, it is far from show level. The car is most accurately described as daily driver quality that, from several feet, looks striking. Close inspection, however, reveals a few areas where the clear coat is peeling on the edges and a few nicks and chips in the paint. The car does not have visible rust but, apparently, a small portion of the lower right rocker panel was repaired previously due to some minor rust. Due to the body type of the Mini this minor flaw does not affect the cars functionality and the inner rocker panels, trunk, and engine bay are rust free and solid. The body on the Mini is really straight, free of signs of exterior damage and the exterior chrome and other trim is quite nice. The gaps on the car are very good and the doors and trunk close solidly and line up well. There are no signs of damage (dents, noticable dings, etc.) to the exterior of the car. As the photos reflect, the undercarriage is generally free from any rust and certainly any rot or rust through. There is an area where a jack appears to have been placed (or the car was driven over a curb or high point) that resulted in an upward dent in the driver's side floor (refer to photographs). This does not affect the suspension components or drivability and is not visible from the outside of the Mini. Some of the fender moldings (especially at the ends) show cracking at the mounting points but this trim is inexpensive and easily obtained. The glass is all original to the car (including the windshield) and all of the windows operate freely. As an Innocenti, the car has side "Vent" windows. At one time the car had aftermarket tinting on the windows and there are some scratches on the side glass from the removal of the material. The front driver's side windscreen has a minor windshield wiper blade scratch that may be able to be polished out. The plastic lenses are all good as are the four front driving / fog lights that are fitted to the Mini. Bumpers are straight and free from rust and even the slightest signs of surface rust. INTERIOR The photos tell the story; the overall appearance of the interior is lovely. The interior has been tastefully refurbished and the valuable Innocenti dash has been retained and remains unaltered. The front and rear seats were re-finished in tan vinyl on the outer potions and a tan cloth material on the insets. At the same time the seat foam / "innards" were replaced over the stock seat frames to ensure firm seating areas. There are no rips, tears or damage to the seats and they show very well, as the photos suggest. The door panels are tan vinyl and the headliner and visors are original and in very nice damage free condition. The plastic portion of the dash that surrounds the gauges is excellent and free from cracks/damage. The one piece dash panel rattles but all of the gauges are functional and in place. The area of the dash containing the cars toggle switches (for headlights, wipers, etc) has been damaged due to a poor job of replacing a wiper switch. We have made no effort to cover the damage but it could be easily addressed with some creativity. The Mini's standard steering wheel has been replaced with a quality, upgraded wooden wheel by Mountney with a functional horn that adds a beautiful touch to the interior. The carpeting was replaced when the interior was upgraded and looks very good, especially considering the light tan color. Seat belts were installed on the driver's side seat and the seats are adjustable fore and aft. The inner doors and all of the inside painted areas were repainted when the cars exterior received a complete re-paint suggesting that the car was done with all of the interior and trim removed. AREAS OF OPPORTUNITY We are often asked, "What does the car need"? We have identified the following depending on how much of a perfectionist the new owner is and how the car is to be used. Should we think of other items of a minor nature that we have omitted, we will do our best to list them as we identify additional items. ? A spare wheel & tire included but there is not jack or tools ? The gas cap locks (key included) ? Door and trunk locks do not seem to work although we have extra keys (??) ? We recommend replacement of the tires due to age cracking. MISCELLANEOUS GENERAL INFORMATION We have a number of additional, detailed photographs but are only able to show 100~ on our listings. Please let us know if we can provide additional detailed photos of any part of the Mini. We have been shipping vehicles for years and have established excellent contacts that are not only high quality but very price competitive. We do not utilize brokers, terminal shipping or other discount methods. Call us or email for a quote directly to your home or office. We are often able to obtain quality enclosed transportation (the kind of travel this car deserves) or for the cost of open shipping (if appropriate). As with virtually all collector/specialty vehicles, we find that parts and resources are readily available for this (and most every vehicle), thanks in large part to the Internet! In addition to the purchase price of the vehicle, California buyers will be subject to sales tax, documentation fee, DMV transfer fees and license/registration. Out-of-state buyers will be responsible for the purchase price of the vehicle and any local taxes/fees will be the purchaser's responsibility to pay in their respective state. IMPORTANT NOTE: if the vehicle is delivered or driven in California and driven on California roads, sales-tax, license registration and transfer fees will be assessed per California law. While we encourage telephone calls to discuss this vehicle in greater detail we will not respond to inquiries asking "What is the reserve". Also, if you would prefer that we call you to answer any questions about the vehicle; shipping alternatives, etc. please e-mail us with your telephone number and will gladly get back in touch with you. As with any collectible vehicle of this vintage we are unable to provide a warranty or guarantee of condition. However, we make every effort to accurately represent our vehicles, and highlight both positive items as well as areas that require attention. We ask that prospective buyers consider our eBay history/feedback, standing in the community, length of time in business, and other factors when purchasing a collectible vehicle from Classic Cars Ltd. Please keep in mind that minor cosmetic issues/flaws may be present on every vehicle (regardless of cost) including small chips, nicks, scratches, etc. that can be seen on even the best restoration, or even a relatively new, used "pre-owned" vehicle. Frankly, often times the photos make the vehicle appear to be in flawless condition and do not show the flaws or imperfections. Also, ownership of a collectible / specialty vehicle is more enjoyable if the owner is familiar with the "realities" of these unique cars. Unlike more modern day vehicles, these cars require regular, ongoing care/maintenance and some mechanical knowledge, patience, and understanding can make the experience considerably more pleasant. That said, collector / "specialty" car owners will tell you (emphatically) that they love their cars and wouldn't trade them for anything!! The information contained in this description is believed to be accurate but, in some instances, has been provided by the car's owner / owners or outside sources. As a result, we are unable to guarantee the accuracy of the information. We encourage verification of "numbers" and significant data prior to the purchase of any collector vehicle that you are considering. PURCHASING A COLLECTOR VEHICLE - THINGS TO CONSIDER ? As always, we recommend that you carefully review the seller's background of any collector car being sold over the Internet. We believe that it is important to ask yourself a number of questions including, but not limited to: - How long have they been in business? - How much experience do they have with collector cars? - How many positive collector car vehicle sales have completed (positive eBay feedback)? - How detailed/complete is the description of the vehicle? - Do the photos show details of the interior, exterior, top, chrome, etc. or are they simply "Glamour Shots" taken from a distance? - Does the seller have a Surety Bond to protect the financial transaction? - What about insurance, licensing by the state, and a local business license? - Does the seller (if a business) have any DMV (Motor Vehicle) complaints and/or other history of legal action, grievances? - Does the seller enjoy a favorable local and national/international reputation? - Can the seller assist with funding sources, transport and out of state/country sales? ABOUT CLASSIC CARS LTD. * Classic Cars Ltd. has been in the same, small, California town for over 17 years. We operate a small "brick & mortar", indoor showroom, and specialize in the sale, consignment, and purchase of sports, high performance and specialty vehicles of all types. We have a particular interest in sports cars and unique vehicles. * The large majority of our vehicles come from local, private owners and collectors, and many were sold new in California. We appreciate that rust free cars, with excellent documentation and history are especially attractive to our buyers both locally, and around the country. As a result, we do not purchase our collectible cars from "distressed" sales, such as wholesale auctions, salvage sales, or lien sales. We do not sell vehicles with salvage titles, or those that have a history of significant accident damage or repair. * Please review our feedback on eBay (user name Never22Many) representing over 600+ positive transactions to buyers all over the United States / World. * We are fully insured, bonded, and licensed for collector car sales all over the United States/World. * Classic Cars Ltd. carries a $50,000 Surety bond to cover financial transactions * We enjoy excellent relationships with a number of transport companies and, as a result, can often times obtain preferred pricing for vehicle shipping. Please give us a call and we will be glad to refer you to suitable transport companies. Needless to say, we would recommend a quality, enclosed transporter that is experience with moving high quality, collectible cars. * We frequently sell vehicles to out of State / out of country buyers, and will be glad to provide references for buyers in your area in virtually any state or country. Thank you, Classic Cars Ltd. 925-846-1451 MyStoreMaps improve local and international eBay sales. Specifications: Body Type / Style:Coupe Exterior Color:Red Interior Color:Tan Engine:4 Cylinder Transmission: 4 Speed Manual Mileage:Brand New! Drive:Rear Doors:2 Equipment: 100% Street Lgal Custom Interior Exempt From Smog in California Factory 4-Speed Factory Bucket Seats Factory Center Console Factory Gauges Factory Spare Factory Spare Fog / Driving Lights Front Disc Brakes Heater / Defroster Mountney Steering Wheel Premium Wheels Rebuilt Engine Veglia Factory Gauges Talk About Unique! Brought Over From Italy a Few Years Ago Complete Cosmetic Refurbishment Red / White Top Straight Body No Signs of Exterior Rust Through High Gloss Paint Work Pop Out Rear Windows Factory Original Emblems "Innocenti 1300" Car has "Hi-Lo" Rear Suspension Flames! Note Larger Front Headlight Trim Added Driving Lights Appears to Have Upgraded Grill Four Front Driving Lights Export Required (USA) Side Marker Light Grill - Close Good Hood Fit Front Right Fender - Close Right Side Door - Close Right Rear Quarter - Close Rear Left Rear - Close Rear Underside on Ground Left Rear Quarter - Close Driver's Side Door Left Side - Front to Rear Right Side - Front to Rear Right Side Left Side Flames from Above!! Front Right Corner - Close Front Left Corner - Close Left Rear Corner - Close Right Rear Corner - Close Side Marker Light - Close Left Side Mirror - Close Driving Lights - Close Innocenti Factory "Vent" Window Rear Pop Out Windows - Close Rear Right Emblem - Close Left Rear Trunk Emblem - Close MOASF (Mini Owner's of America San Francisco) Scare the Children / Set Off Alarms! Top From Above Lights in the ON Position Left Rear Wheel / Tire Left Front Wheel / Tire Right Front Wheel / Tire Right Rear Wheel / Tire Beautiful Interior Seat Belts on Driver's Side Mountney Wheel Dash - 6 Gauges & Air Vents Right Side Interior Right Seat - Close Dash Right to Left Dash Close - R to L Dash from Driver's Side Seat Center of Gauges Functional Horn Speedometer Registers in MPH not KPH Far Right Gauges Far Left Gauges "Moutney - Great Britain" 4-Speed Syncro Gearbox Rear Seat - Nice! Rear Seat - Right to Left Note Rear Door Panel Right Side Driver's Side Door Panel Passenger Side Door Panel Beautiful Headliner - Note Grab Handle Door Jamb - Left Door Jamb - Right Rocker Panel - Right Rocker Panel - Left Air Vent (Dash) - Close Engine (Black is correct for Innocenti) Tidy Engine Bay Runs & Drives Great Equipped with Alternator as Factory No Front Damage Very Solid Trunk (Only slight surface rust) Spare Included Close - Spare Undercarriage #1 Rocker Panel Underside Lower Right Rocker Panel Fron Engine Area - Underside Suspension Suspension - Fornt Affordable Fun! And a Real Innocenti Too!! Terms & Conditions 25% of the total winning bid is due within 72 hours of the end of the auction. The remaining balance is due within 7 days of the close of the auction. In addition to the winning bid/agreed purchase amount the buyer of this vehicle will be subject to a $195.00 fee for processing/administration. The charge will apply if the vehicle is purchased through ebay or before or after the auction, directly through Classic Cars Ltd. Since this vehicle is listed for sale elsewhere, we reserve the right to end the auction at anytime due to prior sale of the vehicle. We will be glad to discuss the sale of the car prior to the end of the eBay auction. Inspections of vehicles (by appointment only) must be completed within 24 hours of the end of the auction. Out of state buyers are responsible for the high bid and any shipping costs. California buyers are subject to the appropriate sales tax, DMV transfer, and fees associated with the purchase of any used vehicle sale in the state of California. We mail, via Priority Mail, transferable documents within 48 hours of the transfer of funds unless, of course, the transaction is local. While shipping and transportation costs (if appropriate) are the responsibility of the winning bidder, we can assist with locating a suitable transporter. We regularly ship cars all over the USA/World, and can often times locate very competitive rates for transporting vehicles door to door, to a local terminal, enclosed, open, etc. Please call us for specific information/rates to your location. We meet some great people and fellow enthusiasts, and only rarely do we have problems with non-paying bidders. Please be certain that you are prepared to buy the car if you bid, or call us at 925-846-1451 before the end of the auction if we can answer any questions. If you have a "sunglass" rating or fewer than 10 feedback ratings on eBay, please call us before you bid so that we can discuss the bidding process, etc. If we do not hear form you, we reserve the right to delete your bid. Thank You & Happy Bidding Classic Cars Ltd.