Registration: D78 BAB
Chassis: SAXXL2S1N20437034
Odometer: 6,861
Transmission: Manual
MOT: July 2027
- Original 1989 bill of sale and substantial history file
- Current keeper since November 2014
- Only approximately 6,861 miles covered during the last 19 years
Few cars are as instantly recognisable or as enduringly popular as the original Mini. By the late 1980s the model had already been in production for three decades, yet remained an important part of the Austin Rover range. The Mayfair was introduced as a more comfortably appointed version of the Mini, adding extra trim and equipment while retaining the wonderfully simple engineering, compact dimensions and entertaining driving characteristics that had made Alec Issigonis' original design such a success.
Offered here is a particularly interesting 1989 Austin Mini Mayfair with an unusual early history. Although not first registered in the UK until February 1994, the accompanying paperwork shows that the car was originally supplied in Germany in 1989. The history file includes its original Austin Rover bill of sale dated 31st August 1989 together with an Austin Rover Military Sales receipt, indicating that it was purchased through Austin Rover's tax-free military sales operation for British service personnel stationed in Germany. Further early documentation includes a German service invoice from Austin Rover/Citroën agent Lothar Müller dated November 1989, when the recorded mileage was just 1,426 kilometres.
Finished in red with contrasting black detailing, chrome brightwork and Minilite-style alloy wheels, it has all the visual charm expected of a traditional Mini. Further additions include an aftermarket steering wheel and alloy interior door furniture, giving the cabin a subtly personalised feel without losing its unmistakable Mini character.
What is particularly noteworthy, is that records indicate it has covered only approximately 6,861 miles during the last 19 years, illustrating the relatively limited use it has received in more recent ownership.
There are six former keepers recorded, with the current keeper having owned the Mini since November 2014, giving it almost 12 years of continuous current ownership. We are informed that it has been garage stored, while the substantial history file contains MOT certificates and a large collection of invoices and receipts documenting maintenance carried out over the years.
More recently, the Mini was serviced by Lodsworth Garage in June 2024 at a recorded 6,593 miles. Work at that time included replacement of the nearside gearbox seal and engine fuse box, together with repair of wiring to the front lights. The history also records replacement brake discs and pads in 2018 and a replacement battery.
Significant further work was undertaken in July 2026 when the rear subframe was replaced. The accompanying invoice provides a particularly detailed account of the job, documenting removal of the old subframe, fabrication and welding of mounting areas where required, replacement fixings, undersealing and subsequent reassembly. An exhaust mounting for the rear box was also fabricated during the work.
Prospective bidders should note that the same invoice records an issue with the offside rear rubber cone seating ring, which became detached during the work and was rebonded and additionally secured as a temporary repair. The repairing garage specifically advises that replacement should be considered in the near future. We feel this is worth stating clearly within the description so bidders can make their own assessment.
With its unusual German military-sales beginnings, long-term current ownership and unusually comprehensive collection of paperwork, this is rather more interesting than the average late-production Mini. Its history file in particular helps tell the story of a car that has now been on the road for more than 35 years, while its recent rear subframe work and MOT until July 2027 should further add to its appeal.
