The Mayfair was launched in 1982 as the luxury Mini - replacing the Clubman as the premium model in the range. With its 998cc A-Series engine, tinted glass, full carpeting, push-button radio, velour trim, and distinctive Mayfair graphics, it brought a touch of West End sophistication to the classic Mini.

This August 1983 Mini Mayfair, supplied new by Lex Mead of Maidenhead and displaying just 24,516 miles, is quite possibly one of the lowest mileage, most original early Mayfairs in existence and a real time-warp example. Finished in its factory colour of Silver Grey Metallic with contrasting blue Mayfair velour interior, this A-reg Mini retains its original dealer window sticker, number plates, and utterly unspoiled character. Preserved rather than restored, it represents a rare opportunity to acquire an investment-grade, first-year Mayfair in as-delivered condition. Most were used as everyday transport and have long since disappeared. This example was clearly cherished from day one. One of the earliest Mayfairs from the first year of production and still on the desirable pre-Metro dashboard. The Silver Grey Metallic paintwork is believed to be largely original and presents beautifully with excellent depth and panel fit. All original Mayfair decals are intact, including the bootlid script. Factory steel wheels with original hubcaps, original black bumpers, and perfect chrome. Underside is remarkably solid and original - a testament to dry storage. The interior is simply stunning untouched. The correct light blue/grey Mayfair velour seats are without wear, rips or sagging. Original blue deep-pile carpets, original door cards, original three-spoke Austin steering wheel, and original dashboard with Smiths twin-clock binnacle. The original under-dash radio and all switchgear are present and correct. It even retains that unmistakable 1980s Mini smell. The 998cc A-Plus engine starts instantly, idles perfectly and drives exactly as a low-mileage example should. This is not a restored car pretending to be original - it IS original. Modern Minis with this mileage and provenance are now fetching huge premiums, and early Mayfairs are rapidly being recognised as the most collectible of the 1980s variants. Ideal for a serious Mini collector, a preservation class contender, or the centrepiece of any significant British collection. Consigned by Dominic Lake

Lot details
Year: 1983
Make: Mini
Model: Mayfair
Registration: A338 YBL
Chassis No: SAXXL2SIN20100287
Odometer: 24,516

* Low ownership
* Low mileage