A genuine early Mini project is always going to grab attention, especially when it has apparently spent the last 35 years tucked away in dry storage.
This 1961 Morris Mini 850 has now surfaced on eBay needing full restoration, but from the photos and seller description, it looks like the sort of car many Mini enthusiasts would happily take on.
The seller states that the Mini has been stored for decades and remains remarkably solid underneath, with “no signs of corrosion or welding” visible on the underside. That alone is enough to make early Mini buyers pay attention.
The Mk1 Mini completely changed the small car market when it arrived in 1959. Designed by Sir Alec Issigonis, the Mini’s transverse engine and front-wheel-drive layout became one of the most influential automotive designs ever produced.
Early Morris-badged 850 models like this are now increasingly difficult to find in untouched project condition.
This particular example is far from standard, however. At some point in its life it gained Cooper S disc brakes, Cooper S wheels and a fibreglass flip front. The seller notes that the inner wings are still complete, meaning a return to a steel front end should be fairly straightforward for anyone wanting a more original appearance.
According to the listing, the engine turns freely, although it has not been started during the seller’s ownership.
The car will obviously need full recommissioning and restoration work throughout, but there is something appealing about projects that have simply been parked up and left alone rather than repeatedly patched up over the years.
The worn paint, dust and period modifications give it exactly the sort of honest look many buyers prefer to see.
Values for early Minis have remained strong for years, especially genuine Mk1 cars and solid restoration candidates.
Even non-running projects regularly attract significant interest now, particularly if the shell structure is good and the car retains its original identity.
This 1961 Morris Mini 850 was offered for sale by eBay seller bubble2014. You can view their current listings here:
You can also browse similar Morris Mini models currently listed on eBay here:
We’re always looking to buy classic cars, projects, collections and interesting old vehicles across the UK. If you have something tucked away, feel free to get in touch with us at UK Barn Finds.
When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Our affiliate partnerships include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network and Amazon.
Stay updated with the latest barn finds, auction news, and classic car adventures in our 'News & Waffle' section. Dive into rare discoveries, behind-the-scenes stories, and expert insights into the world of classic cars. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or simply intrigued by the tales behind these treasures, this is your hub for all things classic and captivating.
View All
The Hillman Imp has always had a loyal following, but finding a genuinely unspoiled example with long-term ownership and low mileage is becoming increasingly difficult. This 1974 Hillman Imp Super recently caught our eye on eBay thanks to its wonderfully honest appearance, original details and reported 34,000 miles from new. Finished in bright blue and […]
Classic car projects on eBay can be dangerously tempting sometimes. We started off looking for one interesting project this morning and somehow ended up staring at a brave Mk1 Fiesta, a brave BMW 635CSI restoration, a rare Mini Pickup and one of the maddest custom Beetles we’ve seen in years. Naturally, we now want ...
The Mk2 Ford Granada has quietly become one of those cars that stops people in their tracks at shows, fuel stations and auctions alike. Once a familiar sight on British roads, surviving examples are now getting thinner on the ground, especially usable V6 cars with the right stance and period feel. This particular 2.8-litre example [&...
