1979 Austin Mini City VTEC

1979 Mini City VTEC 
D15B Honda Vtec engine. Est- 140 hp
All built by MINI TEC.  -engine -mini superbrakes -subframe -wilwood racing pedals.  
Video: on YouTube search "Minitec nor cal mini".  
Talked to minitec they use this car as an exaple of their MTD conversion. They told me it would be $20-21k would get you the same car out the door.  
Recently refurbished (summer 2012) -rust repair -complete crossmember replacement - floorpan replacement on driver side.  -typical rust areas addressed 

 

Frequently asked questions:

How much of the wiring harness is original. and how much is Honda/custom?
 I believe it is half and half. Mini tec builds a Custom harness to link the two together. you could probably call down there and find out their process.

How many miles on the engine?
 est~ 45. 00

 Does engine run properly? 
Yes strong engine. no major issues.

Does engine overheat?
 I have had the engine only one time get hot enough to make me pull over. This was in stop and go traffic for well over 2 hours at 6000 ft and around 95 degrees out.

How long since last clutch?
 Clutch install with the engine. No signs of problems.

How loud?
 Not unbearably loud. but not new car quiet. If I am to keep the vehicle I would install sound deading material to interior firewall.

Was the firewall compromised during the conversion?
 Not at all. Nor was the nose extended to fit the engine.

What is the process to work on the engine (does front end lift off. or does one drop the engine through the bottom?)
Engine access is only through the bonnet. no flip front extended nose. or removable front end. If needed the sub-frame / engine could be dropped out of the bottom of the engine bay.

Does the mini have exhaust leaks (audible or smellable?) 
No exhaust issues in any form.

Exhaust parts replaceable or custom made at a welding shop?
 Easily replaceable components.

Does the exhaust have extra low ground clearance (lowest part under car). that it scrapes?
It does not scrape easily. though it does not sit completely inside the tunnel through the body.

Do the tires rub on the body during steering (left lock to right lock)?
No tire rub during steering.

 Do the tires rub when the car hits a bump?
 High low shocks have been adjusted properly to optimize the clearance. Unless you hit a hole or bump fast that would make any car bottom out. there are no issues to be seen.

Wheel alignment?
No issues

Does it pull to the right/left?
no. Smooth rack and pinon steering.

Does it pull to right/left under braking?
 No. good alignment and even braking.

Does it pull to right/left under acceleration?
There is minimal Torque steer.

How firmly attached are the fender flares?
Rover style fender flares. firmly secured by screws.
 
Does the rear defrost work?
Yes. addressed during wiring replacement.

Do the windows seal?
There are some minor leaks in the windscreen. as per standard with old minis. Can be addressed easily.

Does the heater work well?
It takes a while to warm up due to the original mini heater running off of coolant. But yes it does.

 

Runs great is a blast to drive. beautiful paint. I hate to see her go but with recently leaving active duty in the army. I dont have much time for toys. Sold as-is.

Also published at eBay.com

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