Pippin is a 1960 Austin Mini 850. Left hand drive. Assembled in the UK to be distributed in the USA. MFG. 4/1960
Motor: 998cc, newly rebuilt carburetor (done by us). Original 850 motor came with, do not plan on putting it back in
Also considering doing a VTEC conversion. Opinions would be appreciated.
Transmission: 4-speed manual, 2nd gear syncro is bad
Body: rust in all the usual places. 5 replacement panels have been purchased - waiting to purchase all parts before fixing up, sandblasting and repainting the body. Passenger side door is barely hanging on with cloth and metal body. Drivers side lower door sill rusted through about 4"
Wheels/tires: will be replaced with mini-lites (once we can find them) and nice tires. Currently in desperate need of tires, current tires are rotted
Brakes: currently drum brakes (need to be replaced), plan on converting to disc brakes
Suspension: in good shape, just needs to be thoroughly cleaned
Cosmetics: missing all emblems (bonnet emblem, as well as large boot "Austin 850" metal). Looking for replacements - please let us know if you know where to find them. Passengers side tail light is broken but still functional. Now have new tail lights, need a new turning signal bulb before installing. Mustache needs to be replaced. Missing left whisker. Does not have a grille, may or may not get a replacement one. Debating on having extra trim. Both bumpers need to be replaced.
Interior: Needs to be completely redone. Will be having the seats reupholstered to be white with either a blue or a red trim. Needs a new headliner and carpet. Interior cloth of doors is in bad shape, all needs to be removed and redone.
Paint: Has been painted at least three separate colors. White (?), orange and is currently red. Will be removing all paint once all the rust has been taken care of and repainting it. Pippin will likely become "Honolulu Blue" with white trim/bonnet stripes/roof. Jessica personally likes Surf Blue better. ;)
