1999 Rover Mini 40

This 1999 Rover Mini 40 is one of a reported 150 examples produced for the Japanese market to celebrate the Mini’s 40th anniversary. Finished in Mulberry Red over red leather with white piping, it is powered by a fuel injected 1.3 liter A Series engine paired with a four speed automatic transmission. Mini 40 details include gold badging and exterior accents, air conditioning, dual driving lights, body color wheel arches, 12 inch Minilite style alloy wheels and front disc brakes.

I have owned the car since March 2025 and have focused on making it a better, more enjoyable driver. Since then it has received a substantial suspension refresh with new front and rear Hi Lo components, Mini Spares Evolution suspension cones and Kayaba gas shocks, along with new bump stops, ball joints, brake hoses and various seals and bushings. The wheels were powder coated and recently fitted with Petlas Elegant 145/70 R12 tires. It has also received a full tune up, including oil, fuel filter, air filter and spark plugs, as well as a new RC40 muffler.

The Mini starts easily and drives wonderfully. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and has no known problems, although, like many classic Mini automatics, it can occasionally have its own quirks. It has been driven and enjoyed during my ownership and gets plenty of looks wherever it goes.

This is an honest driver rather than a fully restored show car. It has areas of rust and evidence of previous body repairs, which are shown clearly in the photos. What it is, however, is a distinctive Mini 40 with a beautiful interior, a great deal of recent mechanical work and plenty of character. It is a fun, honest classic Mini that is meant to be driven.