The original Mini was designed by Alec Issigonis to meet the growing demand for small, economical cars. In the late 1950s, the Suez Crisis caused fuel shortages and a rise in petrol prices. German microcars were gaining popularity in the UK, even though imported cars were still a rarity at the time. Leonard Lord, the head of BMC – known for his stubborn and assertive nature – disliked the situation and wanted to offer challenge for the German microcars. He decided that BMC would create a truly capable small family car—something unprecedented. And this happened in 1959 with the introduction of the Mini.

In Finland, the Mini had two importers: Oy Veho Ab represented the Austin Mini, while Voimavaunu Ab handled the Morris Mini. Minis enjoyed great popularity in Finland, thanks a lot to the motorsport success achieved by Finnish Mini drivers like Timo Mäkinen and Rauno Aaltonen.

This 1971 Morris Mini 850 was originally sold as new to a family acquaintance of the current owner, M-L. Laintila, who purchased the car from him in 1976. Laintila used the car for the short commute from her home to the train station; later, it was used to drive her son to high school and for summer holiday trips during the mid-1980s. The car is still owned by Laintila and has covered only 76,000 kilometers.

In the 2000s, the well-preserved car underwent a restoration, during which the bodywork was repainted in its original "Bronze Yellow" shade. The interior remains still in original condition.

Following the restoration, the car was stored unused in a heated garage until it was recommissioned and serviced in the summer of 2026 at Grips Garage specialized in British classic cars. The service included an oil and filter change, adjustments to the carburetors and ignition timing, and the replacement of spark plugs. Additionally, the fuel pump and fuel tank were replaced. The tires and battery were also renewed in the summer of 2026.

The Mini starts easily, and both the engine and drivetrain perform excellently; this example retains its fun driving characteristics and highly original atmosphere.

The car is located in Vantaa – 25 minutes from Helsinki–Vantaa Airport. Views by appointment.

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