"When it was launched in 1959 the Mini became an instant favourite at every level of society, and soon became a motorsport champion across multiple racing genres, partly thanks to John Cooper Garages, who having homed their skills in Formula 1 began modifying the car for more performance, becoming an authorised upgrade from the factory. By the 1990s there were glossy brochures showing all the available options for upgrading your Mini with Cooper Garages while keeping your new car warranty, whether you wanted cosmetic, interior, handling or engine upgrades, Cooper had you covered so you could make the infinity customisable Mini as individual as you wanted. The Sport 5 was a conversion offered by John Cooper Garages, which boosted power to 86bhp. This version featured, as standard, a five-speed Jack Knight Designs gearbox, which helped to maximise the extra performance of the reworked engine. The Mini Cooper S Touring was virtually the same as the Sport 5, both conversions added unique side decals and other exclusive details. These conversions could also be fitted to non-Cooper MPi Minis and limited editions, although the majority were added to Cooper models. Both conversions were approved by Rover as factory conversions in 1999.
This 1997 Sports Touring presented in British Racing Green boasts the five-speed Jack Knight Designs gearbox and upgraded power unit from John Cooper Works. The optional John Cooper deep leather bucket seats adorn the interior as does the leather door cards, sunroof and wood veneer trim finish. Supplied with the bookpack and importantly conversion certificate, this example was put into storage in 2016 as special Mini prices began to increase and has been fully recommissioned this year. The odometer has been changed but this was denoted correctly on the MoT test certificate with the true mileage 63,000. Offered with an MoT test certificate and those iconic Mini spotlights, this is a fast, rare, iconic and yet luxury 90’s Mini we think certain to appreciate in value with just three former keepers. Consignor Mathew Priddy.

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