9th Jun, 2026 10:00
Classic Cars
55
A 2001 Rover Mini John Cooper S works
Registration Number: X752 VWV
Odometer Reading: 14,015
Chassis Number: XXX84391
Engine Number: 12A2LK70396886
Cooper Conversion: S152
This exceptional Mini began life, like many of its contemporaries, on the Longbridge production line in the final weeks of full production. Unlike the vast majority, however, this example was singled out for a far more illustrious destiny. Selected for conversion by the renowned John Cooper Garages, among the most significant performance tuners in British motoring history, it received the full suite of factory sanctioned enhancements that transformed the humble Mini into a spirited driver's machine. Upgrades included a performance cylinder head, revised intake and exhaust system, and the distinctive badging proudly proclaiming its uprated output. Complementing the mechanical improvements were numerous bespoke details: an alloy fuel cap, upgraded interior fittings including door pulls and window winders, release handles, pedals and, most notably, a characterful stainless steel exhaust system that announces its presence with unmistakable enthusiasm. It is believed that fewer than 250 Minis in total are believed to have received this coveted treatment.
Following its conversion, it is believed that John Cooper Garages retained the car as a demonstrator and show vehicle, allowing prospective customers to experience first hand the transformation such enhancements could bring. After a few months and still displaying very modest mileage, the car caught the eye of its first private owner, who sought something truly personal. Desiring a pink Mini, an unusual request, the garage recommended repainting a Solar Red example, and this car was duly entrusted to Roger Masters. Finished in the striking Rover Rose Pink, a rare and distinctive shade, the result is a uniquely charming and highly individual example.
In its original Solar Red finish, the car also enjoyed a moment of national television exposure. It features prominently in an episode of Top Gear GTi devoted to the Mini, where it represented the ultimate evolution of the classic Mini formula.
In more recent years, the Mini has been sparingly used and stored in dry conditions, preserving both its condition and originality. A business card from Mike Raven still present within the glovebox, a salesman at the Cooper Garages, other items from meetings at London’s Ace Café John Cooper Works gatherings remain on the windscreen alongside accompanying memorabilia, adding a touch of provenance. Offered with 12 months' MOT and a freshly completed service for its next custodian, the car has also recently benefitted from a new clutch master cylinder and thermostat housing in preparation for sale.
A rare combination of late production pedigree, official John Cooper performance upgrades, demonstrator history, documented television appearance, and an eye-catching bespoke finish, this Mini represents a delightful opportunity to acquire a truly distinctive example of Britain's most beloved small car.
NOTE: BUYER'S PREMIUM FOR THIS LOT IS 12.5%.
Sold for £11,000
Condition Report
Recent work carried out for sale, bodywork with some areas of flaking paint, around hinges and areasof movement, the respray was carried out to a high specification including within door shuts, the whole boot area and under the bonnet, the only area in red is the lower engine bay and firewall.
IN PERSON
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Auction: Classic Cars, 9th Jun, 2026
Please note: Motor vehicles and motorcycles (lots 52 and 54-63) are subject to Buyer's Premium at 12.5% plus VAT @20%
Viewing
Stansted Viewing | Auction
Viewing will be held at our Stansted Auction Rooms, Cambridge Road, Stansted Mountfitchet CM24 8GE, as follows:
Friday 5 June, 10am - 4pm
Saturday 6 June, 10am - 2pm
Sunday 7 June, 10am - 2pm
Monday 8 June, 10am - 4pm
Tuesday 9 June, 9am - 10am
The auction will take place at our Stansted Auction Rooms, Cambridge Road, Stansted Mountfitchet CM24 8GE.
Please note that this item is not suitable for a pre-sale automated shipping estimate due to the items weight/size.
The below table shows indicative shipping costs for larger items being delivered within the UK mainland. Please note that all the below costs are purely for indicative purposes and are to be used as a guideline only. If you purchase multiple large items, we will combine deliveries to reduce the shipping costs.
Should you be successful in buying this item, a specific shipping estimate will need to be requested after the sale using the link in your invoice email; this also includes all requests for international delivery.
If you would like further information about shipping and collection please see here.
Buying a pre-loved, antique, or vintage item not only provides you with unique style and value for money but it also helps to reduce landfill, and the annual emissions of an antique or vintage piece can be as little as one sixteenth of those of its new equivalent!
Sworders is proud to be supporting the work of Antiques are Green - the movement that was founded in 2009 to promote “a greener future created from the past”. Read their fascinating carbon footprint study of a Georgian chest of drawers versus a modern equivalent here
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