When buying a classic mini, the main thing to consider is body condition (ie. Rust)

Mini's design means they will rust in afew places over time. Heres a quick guide of where to check.

- The seam below the front headlights, above the indicator. If this is rusted through, you will require front panel and maybe wing replacements.

- 'A' panels (between door and front wind) - These are generally spots for rust, but can be repaired rather cheaply.

- Scuttle (around the windscreen/bonnet edge) - This is a pain to replace, often done when front end is completely replaced.

- Door skins - The surface on the door, at the bottom is a common rust place. Re-skinning the door resolves this. See next comment.

- Door frame - Open the door and lay underneath, if theres big holes or rust, the door frame will need repairing or replacing.

- Rear arches - Run your hand under the rear arches wearing a glove, push againist the arch to find any rust / weak spots hiding behind road dirt.

- Boot floor - Open the boot door, check the floor and check around the battery box.

- Rear subframe - Get under the car and check the subframe is in good condition with no holes or bits hanging off.

- Front subframes are normally ok due to oil preserving them.

- Floors and sills - Check the floors inside and outside, along with the sills and anywhere else.

- Take a torch and shine it up the front wheel arches towards the doors, have a look to see if you can see rust around the inner wing/door hinge panel areas.

Engines:

Mini engines are standard in 850cc, 998cc and 1275cc commonly. Other varietys do exist. Modified engines also bring high value to mini's, check with a good source for more information. I recormended " theminiforum .co.uk " for all enquires.

Flipfront:

Its becoming more common to replace the metal rusty front wings and panel of a mini with one/two piece fibreglass fronts. These are fine. But please check that brace bars and solid (metal) subframe mounts have been used at ALL mounting points. Some people only do half with metal. Also make sure the front secures completely.

Rare items

Some mini's may have rare item's such as badges, seats, wheels or brakes. Check with the website for more info.

Remember if you think somethings up, get it checked out by the RAC/AA or a HPI check. Good luck