Unusual Stretch Limousine Based on 1985 Austin Mini to be Auctioned

A professionally converted 1985 Austin Mini stretch limousine is set to go under the hammer later this month, offering a unique take on the iconic British car. The vehicle, capable of carrying up to six passengers, is estimated to sell for between £8,000 and £10,000 (approximately $10,685 to $13,357).

From Compact Car to Novelty Vehicle

The original Austin Mini, first produced in the late 1950s, gained worldwide recognition for its innovative engineering and cultural impact. Designed in response to fuel shortages following the Suez Crisis, the Mini was conceived as a small, efficient alternative to imported microcars. Engineer Alec Issigonis created a revolutionary design maximizing interior space by mounting the engine sideways and integrating the gearbox within the engine’s oil sump [Motorious].

This particular Mini underwent a significant transformation in the early 2000s, carried out by a specialist garage in North Wales. The car was cut in half and lengthened to create additional passenger space, with the chassis reinforced to accommodate the extended wheelbase [Car and Classic].

Conversion Details

The conversion involved adding a second pair of rear doors and redesigning the cabin to include two sets of rear-facing seats. The interior features white vinyl upholstery, black carpeting, and matching white door cards. The driver’s area retains classic Mini design cues, including a wood-rimmed steering wheel [Silodrome].

Power is provided by the 1,275cc A-Series engine, the largest factory-offered engine for the Mini. It is paired with a traditional four-speed manual transmission [Silodrome].

A Legacy of Innovation

Over its production run, which exceeded 5.3 million units before ending in 2000, the Mini evolved into a diverse lineup including estates, luxury variants, and performance models like the Cooper and Cooper S [Motorious]. The performance versions achieved success in rally and touring car racing.

This stretch limousine represents one of the more unusual custom projects undertaken with the Mini platform, demonstrating the adaptability of the design and the enthusiasm surrounding the model.

Auction Information

The converted Mini will be offered by Iconic Auctioneers on March 21st with a price estimate of £8,000 to £10,000 [Motorious].