The Mini LS was not officially released until July 1977. However, with the Melbourne Motor Show held in March that year, a couple of pre-production cars were built in January/February 1977 to showcase the upcoming model. This particular LS is one of the pre-production cars, and is believed to be the car which appeared on the stand of the Melbourne Motor Show (see the final image in the gallery of the LS on the stand).

This LS is a three owner vehicle. The first owner of the car was a mini enthusiast and is believed to have purchased the car off the stand at the 1977 Melbourne motor show. This history was communicated to the current owner by the second owner who was a friend of the first.

Although no official production records are available from Leyland, it is believed that approximately 500 “Silver Blue” LS Minis were produced. The 998 version of the LS was also offered in several other colours including Iridium Green, Nugget Gold and Hi-Ho Silver. All 998 LS’s were fitted with a vinyl roof which unfortunately led to significant rust in many of the cars, explaining their scarcity today.

The door cards in this example are original and check stamped January 1977. The five ROH wheels are original, with date stamps of January 1977. The car comes with the original boot mat in very good condition, and the original tool kit still in its original bag.

The odometer shows 64,927 km, but this is not indicative of the condition of the car. It has been fully rebuilt including the original engine and gearbox. The engine and gearbox were rebuilt using standard bearings and bushes. The car has only done 12,323 km since its complete restoration, and remains in immaculate condition.

There is an extensive booklet of research, communications and images of the restoration and research into the vehicle’s origins, making this example one of very few LS Minis documented from new. Shannons insurance have seen the paperwork for this vehicle and given a substantial agreed value. It was judged the second best mini at the National 50th anniversary show in July 2009 (beaten by the last 1275 LS held by the SA museum). Rather ironic that the first LS produced was beaten by the last LS produced. The car won best original Leyland at the Hey Nationals in 2012, 2014 and 2015.

The car is currently on club registration which is not transferable. However, Victorian custom “998 LS” plates are included in the price, and it will be supplied with Victorian RWC to suit the prospective buyer’s timetable. Offers around $25,000.00 will be considered. Substantial cost has been incurred restoring this car to its current condition. Please, no stupid offers, this is the real deal and there is extensive documentation to support the car’s authenticity.

Please contact Barry by signing in and clicking the contact seller button above, or email Barry directly on bjoconnor@activ8.net.au or call 0407266688. The car is located in Benalla, VIC 3672. For more information or to arrange an inspection, please contact Steve by signing in and clicking the "contact seller" button above.