Following Rover’s decision to end the “Classic” range of Minis, the manufacturer decided to offer the British market a limited-edition Mini Cooper Sport 500. Production was limited to just 500 cars, and the offering and was billed as the last chance to purchase Alec Issigonis’ classic Mini design, with the newer BMW-made Mini soon to break cover. These models were manufactured in 2000 and based on the Mini Classic Cooper Sport, but featured various extras.

All Cooper Sport 500s were powered by the four-cylinder, 1.2-litre engine that was rated at 62 horsepower. They could be painted in one of four optional colours: Tahiti Blue, Anthracite, British Racing Green, or Solar Red. All models came with 13-inch alloy wheels with a Platinum Silver roof and bonnet stripes. Included as special extras in these models were a high-level brake light, four spot lamps, a certificate, and a plaque inside the glove box. Inside all Cooper Sport 500s, the seats, door cards, steering wheel and dashboard were upholstered in black and silver leather. The interior fittings for this model were alloy instead of the standard plastic and included an alloy gear knob, window winders, dashboard, door pulls, and door handles.

This example is finished in Solar Red with a Platinum Silver roof, is believed to be one of only 110 produced this colour combination. It was registered on 3 May 2001 and purchased new by its sole owner via Caffyns of East Sussex, England. A copy of the original sales invoice will accompany the vehicle. Inside, the seats are upholstered in black and silver leather, the carpets are trimmed in black, and the car retains the original alloy fittings. Having been kept on display at the Cayman Islands Motor Museum until recently, this example bears just six miles on its odometer at time of cataloguing.

This Cooper Sport 500 is accompanied by the owner’s handbook, European directory, service portfolio and in-car entertainment booklet, all stored in the factory leather folder. It presents a wonderful opportunity to purchase a one-owner-from-new model with only “delivery miles”.