1962 Austin Seven (Mini) Crossover – Surf Blue
First registered on 2nd July 1962, this beautifully presented Austin Seven represents one of the most significant and collectible variants in early Mini production. Built on 26th April 1962, it is one of the very rare “crossover” models produced for just a single year, bridging the transition between the Austin Seven name and the universally adopted Mini identity. These early cars retain features lost soon after, including the distinctive floor-mounted starter button and the iconic “magic wand” gearstick, making them highly sought-after among marque enthusiasts.
This Mini has had just four former registered keepers from new, with the previous owner having cared for the car since 2013. Originally supplied by A. C. Turner of Plymouth, its documented history remains remarkably intact, with paperwork showing all known custodians from new. Although at one point purchased by a French car dealer, the vehicle never left the UK, a fact confirmed in writing to the DVLA by a previous owner.
Between 2016 and 2017, the car underwent a total nut-and-bolt restoration carried out by the Channel 4 Car SOS workshop team in Oldbury. Over £20,000 was invested in returning the car to factory-correct condition, supported by extensive invoices, a full photographic record, and restoration videos. Having been off the road from 1983 until this work was completed, the Mini has covered only approximately 600 miles since its rebuild, and today presents in outstanding condition. The restoration included a full bare-metal body rebuild, with professional spot-welding carried out in accordance with original factory manuals. The shell was finished in 2-pack BMC Surf Blue using the Car SOS low-bake oven, before being comprehensively rustproofed throughout all box sections, doors, and cavities. Extensive metalwork was undertaken, including new wings, scuttle repair panels, floors, sills, A-panels, door skins, rear quarters, inner arches, boot floor, battery box, rear valance, and drip rail extensions. A new front panel was fitted with the correct early lower apron modification, while the boot lid is an excellent original item. Brightwork is equally impressive, featuring new stainless-steel bumpers, a re-chromed grille moustache, and correct early-style chrome window catches. The car sits on period-style Cooper S reverse-rim 4.5J Dunlop wheels finished in Old English White, shod with Falken tyres and completed with new hubcaps.
Inside, the cabin has been restored to original 1962 specification. The seats are trimmed in correct Powder Blue and grey fleck material, paired with matching door cards and Newton Commercial seat covers and dash trims. New carpets and underlay have been fitted, while the original headlining has been carefully retained, still displaying original BMC factory glue marks — a rare and charming detail. The original single-instrument dash pod remains in place, as does the fully refurbished and operational floor starter. Additional period features include rare factory-fitted courtesy lights in the rear door pockets, a new old stock Austin horn push, Lucas indicator stalk, reconditioned heater with working fan, and period Smiths heated rear window, currently not connected. The car retains its original positive-earth electrical system, which has been carefully checked and subtly upgraded where appropriate, including halogen headlamps and new Lucas rear lamp units.
Mechanically, the Mini is powered by its correct 848cc A-series engine, which has been fully rebuilt and blueprinted for smoother running by Bromsgrove Engine Services. The engine and four-speed manual gearbox were overhauled during restoration, with conversion to unleaded fuel and the fitment of a new clutch. The rebuilt 1¼-inch SU carburettor is paired with a new SU fuel pump and reconditioned fuel tank. Subframes were removed, shot-blasted, and powder-coated, while new brake lines, fuel lines, exhaust system, wheel bearings, radius arm bearings, shock absorbers, driveshafts, and Moulton rubber suspension units were installed. Braking has been upgraded with a Cooper S front disc conversion, complemented by new rear brake components and master cylinders throughout. The vendor reports that the car starts readily on the choke and drives exactly as an early Mini should.
Supporting the car is an impressive history file, including its Heritage Certificate, period Austin Mini maintenance booklet, original tax discs, previous V5 documents showing long-term custodianship, and the original 2012 sales advertisement. The odometer currently displays approximately 91,000 miles, though with just 600 miles covered since restoration, the car remains effectively fresh. As a historic vehicle, it is both tax and MOT exempt.
This 1962 Austin Seven Mini offers a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most desirable early variants, restored to an exceptional standard by a renowned specialist team and accompanied by outstanding documentation. It is a car equally suited to serious collectors, concours events, or simply to be enjoyed as one of Britain’s most important automotive icons — presented today in a condition that truly reflects its significance.
PRICE: £16995