1974 Leyland MINI Sedan - Green / White - 146,160km - 1.3L A-Series Inline-4, 4-Speed Manual
Overview
This 1974 Leyland MINI represents a pivotal moment in British automotive history. The MINI, originally conceived by Alec Issigonis and launched in 1959, had by the mid-1970s become an icon of compact, efficient motoring. By 1974, the MINI was in its second decade of production, refined through countless iterations, and this particular example carries the Leyland badging that marked the British Leyland era. The MINI's revolutionary front-wheel-drive layout, transverse engine mounting, and ingenious space utilisation made it a benchmark for small-car design worldwide. This 1974 sedan body presents the classic proportions that defined the model: compact overall footprint, upright greenhouse, and that unmistakable silhouette recognised across generations.
This example presents in original green and white two-tone livery, a colour scheme authentic to the period. The bodywork shows honest patina consistent with a 50-year-old vehicle that has been preserved rather than restored. The paint holds reasonable depth across visible panels with minor stone chipping on the bonnet leading edge, typical of a vehicle that has seen genuine use. Chrome trim shows light surface oxidation appropriate to age. The interior presents with period-correct black and green quilted upholstery and a black steering wheel, with door panels and trim showing the patina expected of a half-century-old daily driver. The odometer reads 146,160 kilometres, suggesting moderate use over its lifetime. This MINI retains its original character and has not been subjected to modern modifications or heavy restoration, making it a genuine period piece.
The 1.3-litre A-series inline-4 petrol engine is the larger of the two factory options available in 1974, delivering approximately 65 brake horsepower in naturally aspirated form. Paired with a 4-speed manual transmission, the combination is entirely original to the model year and specification. The engine bay shows the lime-green painted block and blue spark plug wires characteristic of this era, with no visible modifications or forced-induction equipment. The manual gearbox is operated via a small round knob shifter with a leather gaiter boot, mounted on the centre console, a design that remained virtually unchanged throughout the MINI's production run. At 146,160 kilometres, this powertrain represents a well-used but serviceable example of Leyland's compact engineering.
In today's market, classic MINIs from the 1970s occupy a unique position. They are no longer merely old cars; they are now recognised as design classics and cultural artefacts. Original, unmodified examples are increasingly sought by enthusiasts, collectors, and those seeking an authentic period-correct driving experience. The MINI's legendary agility, compact dimensions, and front-wheel-drive handling characteristics remain engaging even by modern standards. A 1974 MINI in original condition, with matching numbers and period-correct specification, represents an entry point into classic car ownership at a significantly lower cost than many comparable British classics. The market for original 1970s MINIs has strengthened over the past five years, with well-preserved examples commanding solid interest from both domestic and international buyers. This vehicle's honest presentation, original specification, and genuine patina position it as an authentic period piece rather than a showroom restoration, which appeals to a specific and dedicated collector base.
Condition
Exterior: The green and white two-tone paint presents with reasonable depth and gloss across all visible panels. Minor stone chipping is evident on the bonnet leading edge, consistent with road use. Chrome trim shows light surface oxidation and patina appropriate to a 50-year-old vehicle. Door handles show minor wear. Panel gaps are even and consistent. No evidence of major accident repair or panel replacement is visible. The windscreen and windows are intact and clear. Lights and trim are present and functional in appearance.
Interior: The black and green quilted upholstery is original and shows age-appropriate wear. The driver's seat bolster shows creasing and patina consistent with 146,160 kilometres of use. The steering wheel is black and original. The dashboard is intact with all instruments present and legible. Door panels and trim show period patina. The carpeting is original and worn in high-traffic areas. No evidence of water damage, mould, or structural deterioration is visible. The headliner is intact.
Engine Bay: The lime-green painted engine block is visible and shows no evidence of major overhaul or modification. Blue spark plug wires are original specification. Fluid levels appear reasonable. No evidence of oil seepage or major mechanical work is visible. The engine bay is honest and unrestored, consistent with the vehicle's overall presentation.
Mechanical: The 4-speed manual transmission operates via the original round knob shifter with leather gaiter. The clutch engages smoothly. The braking system appears functional. Suspension components are original specification. Tyres are fitted and appear serviceable. The spare wheel is present in the boot.
Features
* 1974 Leyland MINI Sedan, original green and white two-tone livery
* 1.3-litre A-series inline-4 naturally aspirated petrol engine, approximately 65 bhp
* 4-speed manual transmission with original round knob shifter and leather gaiter
* Front-wheel-drive layout with transverse engine mounting
* Right-hand drive configuration
* 4-door sedan body with classic MINI proportions
* 4-seat interior with period-correct black and green quilted upholstery
* Original black steering wheel
* Analogue instrument cluster with speedometer, fuel gauge, and temperature gauge
* Chrome trim and period-correct exterior detailing
* Spare wheel and jack present in boot
* Odometer reading 146,160 kilometres
* Honest, unrestored presentation with original patina
* No modern modifications or forced-induction equipment
* Matching numbers engine and transmission
Condition Notes
* Minor stone chipping on bonnet leading edge
* Light surface oxidation on chrome trim, consistent with age
* Minor wear to door handles
* Interior door panels and upholstery show age-appropriate patina
* Carpeting worn in high-traffic areas
* Steering wheel shows period wear
* Vehicle is unrestored and presents with honest patina throughout
* No evidence of major accident repair or structural damage
* Engine bay is original and unmodified
Specifications
Year: 1974
Make: Leyland
Model: MINI
Body Type: Sedan
Doors: 4
Seats: 4
Engine: 1.3-litre A-series inline-4 naturally aspirated petrol
Cylinders: 4
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Drive Type: Front wheel drive
Steering: Right hand drive
Colour: Green / White
Odometer: 146,160 kilometres
Engine Number: 10153544
VIN: 022D2S2M108450
If you have any questions relating to this vehicle, or if you would like to arrange a physical or virtual inspection, please contact Taig directly on 0438 626 472
(Key #C17)
Lloyds stock #222379+1
#CCALL
#CCEUR
Location of item: 18 Paradise Road, Acacia Ridge, QLD, Australia
** This vendor is not registered for GST - therefore GST is not applicable on this asset **
As Standard Auction Practice all Vehicles are Sold Unregistered
As with all vehicles sold in the Classic Car Division, they have been well looked after by their previous owners. This is an Auction Sale. This asset is sold under standard auction conditions, as is, where is. High volumes of incoming product prevent our team from being able to inspect all items individually. All photos, descriptions, odometer readings, hour readings, engine specifications and any condition reports should be used as a guide only and have been compiled after speaking with the owners. To find out more about this lot or to book a live video inspection please contact the Auctioneer Contact which can be found on the Auction Details page. There is no statutory warranty & no cooling off period.
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