This very rare 1971 Morris Cooper S is one of only 170 1971 Ss built in 1971, having the revised door handle design, burst proof door locks, among several other unique features. It's begging to be restored back to original spec.. Due to the scarcity of this particular Cooper S version (sometimes referred to as the MK2.5), along with the fact that they were the last produced in Australia, we've always assumed these cars would attract the most collector interest. Interestingly, the Shannons auction rated the car at a value of between $24,000 and $28,000 (AUD). This is perhaps due to many of the features of this particular example being non original (such as the seat cloth), or perhaps the motor is not matching numbers.

Interestingly, the comments on the sales page noted that this car is an ex-NSW highway patrol vehicle - making it even more desirable. The car was completed in March 1971 (the final month of production) to SPO41 police specification, with a number of performance upgrades, including a modified inlet manifold, modified cylinder head, hotter camshaft, twin SU HS4 1 ½-inch carburettors with ventilated carburettor crankcases, Lynx Ramflo air filters, Lucas 29D4 distributor, a free-flow exhaust (with no resonator) and a one-piece heat shield. Other improvements found exclusively on SPO41 Minis included a Smiths impulse tacho, two-speed wipers, reversing lights, a handbrake warning light and Dunlop Aquajets.

Of some concern, however, is that the fuel tabs, and fuel breather valve under the rear seat are not in place.. This could indicate that significant rust issues had warranted replacement in the past. 

We will watch this Shannons auction with interest. Images and information courtesy of shannons.com.au (as per the image watermark). These images are owned by Shannons, and are only displayed here for historical / record purposes for the register.