Classic Mini in dusty garage for 33 years fetches eye-watering amount at auction

A CLASSIC Mini tucked away in a dusty garage for 33 years has been sold for an eye-watering amount at auction.

Described as an “astonishing result”, the eye-catching 1275 GT model went for £39,100 in a weekend sale, after being expected to make £10,000.

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The motor was uncovered in a locked Buckinghamshire garage, where it has been gathering dust since 1990.

A spokesperson for Classic Car Auctions commented: “One can only wonder why its owner garaged it for three decades.

“But its discovery patently delighted the Mini enthusiasts at the sale as one more of these ground-breaking British automotive icons. This was an astonishing result built on substantial pre-sale interest.”

The lot description said the motor had one owner from new, with just 11,836 miles on the clock.

It described the car as finished in bronze yellow over black vinyl, with bodywork and interior in remarkable condition.

While not known why the Mini was padlocked away near Aylesbury, stickers indicate the next service was due at 13,438 miles, while the tax disc expired at the end of June 1990.

Also hitting the high notes was musician Chris Rea’s 1950 Series I model Land Rover.

Classic Car Auctions had set a guide price of £10.000 to £12,000 for the motors, which they say have been lightly used latterly and kept in dry storage.

However, the Road to Hell singer’s off-roader was a hit, with bidders achieving £17,250.

The vehicle was previously in long-term ownership for 35 years, from 1986 until December 2021, before being acquired by Rea.

Believed to have been rebuilt sometime in the 1970s, the Land Rover is fitted with a Rover 2000 SC (P6) engine, which Classic Car said is “smooth running and suited to the car”.

A new Exmoor trim canvas tilt roof was fitted three years ago, and a replacement tailgate was fitted and installed.

“Everyone loves a Series I, the most sought-after Land Rover,” added Classic Car Auctions.

The sale happened at the Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show on 25th – 26th March at the NEC, Birmingham.

Last year, an urban explorer found one million pounds worth of cars in a secret underground bunker.

And an incredible classic Ferrari abandoned in a garage and thought to be the last unrestored example was sold for a staggering price.

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