Remarkable ‘garage find’ Mini 1275 GT heads to auction this month

A rare and very original Mini 1275 GT will be sold by Classic Car Auctions later this month. Discovered in a garage, where it had been parked for 33 years, the sporty survivor is certainly in need of a good wash. 

The auction takes place at this month’s Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show, held at the NEC in Birmingham. 

Ahead of the sale, the 1275 GT has been given an estimated price of between £10,000 and £12,000.

Square route

The Austin Mini 1275 GT was introduced in 1969, as part of the restyled Clubman range. Featuring a squarer front end, larger headlights and a new grille, the Clubman’s styling was intended to propel the Mini into the 1970s. 

Two trim levels were offered, with buyers able to choose from the basic Clubman or the upgraded 1275 GT. The latter option meant the addition of a 1,275cc four-cylinder engine. Producing 59hp, it was supported by a close-ratio manual gearbox, disc brakes and 10-inch Rostyle alloy wheels. 

Performance was sprightly for the era, with the potential to reach 60mph in less than 13 seconds.

A 1970s timewarp

The car up for auction was delivered in a very 1970s colour combination of Bronze Yellow paintwork with black exterior decals. 

Black vinyl upholstery can be found inside, along with an odometer showing just 11,836 miles before the Mini went into storage. A tax disc that expires in June 1990 confirms when the 1275 GT entered hibernation. 

Accompanying the Mini is its original service passport, plus the factory-fitted tool kit.

Ready for recommissioning

As a ‘garage find’, the 1275 GT is being presented for sale exactly as it was discovered. Inevitably, there is plenty of work needed beneath the bonnet to get the Mini back on the road.

Richard Greenhalgh, who sourced the car for Classic Car Auctions, said: “The bodywork and interior do seem to remain in remarkable condition. It almost feels as though a soapy wash and a good valet would have it back in shape. The engine bay, however, is not so good and the car will undoubtedly need a full mechanical recommission.”

The Mini will cross the block at the Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show Sale, which takes place on 25 and 26 March.

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