This 1973 Mini Clubman 1275 GT is an Australian-built New Zealand market car first imported to the US twelve years ago. These were among the highest performance factory Minis produced and all carry a YG2S8 chassis prefix. The seller says this one sports an authentic factory 1275cc Cooper S engine with twin SU-carburetors good for 76 horsepower. Clubman GTs are distinguished with many interesting features like external door hinges, special badging and fender flares, twin fuel tanks, and unique interior layout. One of only 198 NZ export cars built in this spec, this car presents nicely with a factory-correct respray in its original Bronze Beige and is offered in mechanically fit condition. It is said to be a reliable driver and benefits from recent work including new brakes, new tie rods, ball joints, clutch slave cylinder, and more detailed below. The seller emphasizes that this is the real deal, saying “This is not a re-VIN car! This Mini is a legal immigrant!”

Bronze Beige (code 12971) and is described as a high-quality, factory-correct respray dating from 2004. Black stripes mimic those applied from new as well, and overall cosmetic condition remains excellent with only minor blemishing picked up over the past 11 years. As laid out in this interesting link on how to identify an Australian-built Clubman GT, these cars are distinguished from more widely-made UK cars by their early-style external door hinges, fiberglass Group 2 fender flares with chrome trim, twin fuel tanks, a laminated windscreen, flush door handles and more.

The seller says the interior is original. Worn seat diaphragms have been replaced but did cause front seats to tear as shown in the gallery. The steering wheel has been swapped for a sportier period item but original details remain including the unique GT shift knob. Note as well the tidy carpets, factory tachometer, and three point belts. All lights, instruments and switchgear work including neatly integrated auxiliary gauges just above the driver’s right knee. Additionally, windows are said to roll smoothly, and their split quarter glass/wind-up configuration is another unique feature of these Australian models. All wiring behind the dash is new, and the seller has added an adjustable steering column for a more comfortable seating position.

Clubman GTs are very similar mechanically to MK2 Cooper S models. Power comes from the original 1275cc motor with correct ‘1206’ engine prefix number factory twin SU carbs. Rated at a healthy 76 horses, this figure beats UK-made examples by 16 HP and is said to give the car lively performance with nearly 100 MPH attainable flat-out. Standard on Aussie-made cars, this one features an auxiliary hot climate radiator, 7.5″ front disc brakes and Cooper S-spec Hydrolastic suspension as well.

Recent work included fitment of replacement brake pads, discs and booster, new tie rods, ball joints, clutch slave cylinder, shift mount bushing, electronic ignition, coil plugs, engine oil and more. OEM Aldic wheels wear four brand new Yokohama A008’s–great tires specifically developed for classic Minis, they combine old school looks with modern grip and handling. An independent PPI was performed and the compression was healthy between 135 and 140 in each cylinder. Sale includes full service and registration documentation dating to the car’s 2003 importation as well as the original New Zealand title pictured above.