In Brief:

• An honest example of a City E trimmed Austin Mini
• Finished in Red over a Grey half leather interior with patterned cloth inserts
• Owned by the current keeper for the last 22 years
• Just 4 former keepers
• Recommissioning completed this year and MOT'd until May '27

Auctioneer's Notes:

A charming and highly usable example of the ever-popular classic Mini, this 1988 Austin Mini 1000 City E has covered a low mileage of just 45,323 miles. Having been taken off the road in 2005 and dry stored until its recent recommissioning, it now presents as a lovely example of one of Britain’s most iconic small cars. Simple, characterful and instantly recognisable, the City E remains a highly appealing entry into classic Mini ownership.

Maintenance & Condition:

The Vendor reports that the car has been fully recommissioned this year following its long period in dry storage. Works carried out include new tyres, battery, alternator, water pump, brakes, pipes, hoses, oils, plugs, points and much more. The car is also offered with a current MOT valid until May 2027, with no advisories, confirming the mileage at approximately 45,000 miles. Invoices are present for various miscellaneous works, including a clutch replacement in 2002, along with the recent recommissioning work described by The Vendor.

History:

The accompanying paperwork includes the original handbook, a collection of invoices and an excellent MOT history file. Old MOT certificates date back to 1993, with 12 MOT certificates in total available up until the car was taken off the road in 2005. Its recent MOT, valid until 05/2027 with no advisories, provides further reassurance and helps support the car’s low recorded mileage.

The Model:

The Austin Mini 1000 City E was an economical and accessible version of the classic Mini, produced during the 1980s and powered by the dependable 998cc A-Series engine paired with a 4-speed manual gearbox. The “E” stood for Economy, with the model benefiting from gearing intended to improve fuel efficiency and make the car more relaxed at cruising speeds. The City E retained the essential Mini formula: compact dimensions, simple mechanicals, low running costs and famously sharp, go-kart-like handling.

Sale Insight:

With low recorded mileage, long-term dry storage and a recent recommissioning, this Mini City E offers an appealing opportunity for anyone seeking a usable and characterful classic. Its current advisory-free MOT, supporting MOT history and original handbook add to its appeal, while the model’s simplicity and enduring popularity make it an ideal choice for local shows, weekend use or simply enjoying one of Britain’s most beloved motoring icons.

Estimate:
£2,750 - £3,750