1968 Mini Cooper S Mk2 Restoration
A full nut-and-bolt Mini Cooper S Mk2 restoration
This exceptional 1968 Austin Mini Cooper S MkII underwent a comprehensive nut-and-bolt restoration by Competition Classics, with the objective of returning the car as closely as possible to its original factory specification.
Finished in its original El Paso Beige with Snowberry White roof, the restoration involved extensive bodywork, a complete mechanical rebuild and painstaking attention to period-correct detail. Rather than taking the easier route of fitting later or more readily available components, we sourced and restored the correct parts wherever possible.
The finished Cooper S was subsequently featured by MiniWorld magazine, which documented the restoration and the lengths Competition Classics went to in preserving the authenticity of this very special MkII Cooper S
The bodyshell was stripped back to bare metal before extensive repairs were undertaken. The restoration included a new floor, rear and boot floor, A-panel repair, wings, rear quarters, doors and bootlid, creating the sound foundation required for a restoration of this standard.
Once the bodywork was complete, the shell was refinished in the car's original El Paso Beige with Snowberry White roof, as recorded on its Heritage Certificate.
1293cc Cooper S Engine RebuildÂ
Competition Classics completely rebuilt the Cooper S engine, including new pistons, rings, shells and valves. Following a rebore, the original 1275cc unit now displaces 1293cc, while otherwise retaining a largely standard specification with the addition of unleaded valve seats.
The gearbox was also rebuilt, retaining the correct non-synchromesh first gear rather than converting the car to the later and easier-to-use full-synchromesh specification.
Restored to 1968 Specification
Authenticity was central to the restoration. Original components were retained and refurbished wherever possible, including the fuel pump, master cylinders, instruments, windows and numerous under-bonnet components.
Even small details mattered. Correct steel brake pipes were used rather than the commonly fitted copper replacements, while original-style wire hose clips and other period details were retained.
Featured in Mini World Magazine
The quality and attention to detail of the completed restoration led to the Cooper S being featured in MiniWorld magazine.
Entitled "The Extra Mile", the feature tells the story of the four-year restoration and the lengths Competition Classics went to in sourcing, restoring and recreating the correct components for the car.