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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.
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