James May, from ‘Top Gear,’ buys rare 1980s Mini Cooper prototype (YouTube @JamesMayDrinks)
James May, former host of “Top Gear,” bought a very rare and special Mini Cooper. It is one of the three prototypes created in the late 1980s to mark the return of the Cooper model, which had been discontinued in 1971.
Of the three, this is the only one that still exists. Originally, it was a regular Mini 30, but it was modified with a 1.3 engine, special wheels, and decals, taking on the look and performance characteristics of the Cooper. The car was used in promotional events at the time to excite the public about the return of the model.
In the video posted on his YouTube channel, May uses the car to go shopping while explaining its historical significance. Although it is a rare and valuable piece, the prototype has imperfect finishes, with assembly flaws and raw details, something typical of pre-production vehicles. In one of the segments, the car even fails during a small test drive, which, according to May, is also typical of Minis.
+ Click here to watch the video
Even with so few kilometers, less than 1600 kilometers when it was purchased, May makes a point of using the car, which has now surpassed 1900 km.
James May, from ‘Top Gear,’ buys rare 1980s Mini Cooper prototype (YouTube @JamesMayDrinks)
Source: Motor1.com | Photo: YouTube @JamesMayDrinks | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
