Woodham Mortimer

1970 Mini Cooper S Mk3 1275 'Radford de Ville'

Details

  • Year: 1970
  • Configuration: RHD
  • Engine: 1275 cc
  • Price: £125,000

Description

NOW IN STOCK... one of the rarest Mini Coopers in the World!

We are delighted to be offering one of the rarest, yet most expensive Minis of the 1970s. A true icon!

It's a ’1970 Radford Mini Cooper 1275 S Mk3’ and was featured in numerous Newspaper and Magazine Adverts and Articles of the time.

Radford Mini’s were rare and expensive when new and actually cost more than a Rolls Royce Shadow and only £250 less than a Lamborghini Miura. In fact this actual Car was the second most expensive Radford ever made, second only by £500 to the Radford made for pop band, 'The Monkees'.

This unique car took over 2,300 hours of work to build. Its color is Roman Purple and the roof is Oyster Shell with Beige Connolly leather interior with purple piping.

The list of conversions and extras included: Dual vertical headlamps and headlights, Webasto full-length sunroof, full Connolly leather interior with matching front headrests and plush Wilton carpets, polished wood dashboard with numerous additional switches, heated front and rear windows , electric windows, electric dynamo, rear third tailgate, folding rear seats, accented wheel arches and 6-spoke JA Pearce light alloy wheels, twin fuel tanks, full soundproofing inside and out - with additional personalisation available.

Very low mileage and in excellent condition. It is one of the most famous Cars of the seventies.

Famous Radford Mini Owners included; All four Beatles, Peter Sellers, Steve McQueen, James Garner and many more!

The History of Radford Minis: From Coachbuilding to Iconic Custom Creations

Radford, a name that evokes images of luxury and bespoke craftsmanship, has played a significant role in the history of automotive customization. While Radford is best known for its collaboration with the Mini, the company's origins can be traced back to the early 20th century.

Founded in 1948 by Harold Radford, Radford Coachbuilders initially focused on producing high-quality coachwork for luxury automobiles. Their reputation for excellence quickly grew, and Radford became synonymous with elegant designs and meticulous attention to detail. Their clientele included royalty, celebrities, and discerning car enthusiasts who sought personalized luxury vehicles.

In the 1960s, Radford's path crossed with the iconic Mini, creating a partnership that would leave an indelible mark on automotive history. Recognizing the Mini's popularity and cult following, Radford saw an opportunity to transform the beloved compact car into a symbol of bespoke luxury. Radford Minis, produced between 1963 and 1974, were handcrafted works of automotive art. They featured custom bodywork, sumptuous interiors, and a range of personalized options that elevated the Mini to new heights of exclusivity. From convertible versions to shooting brake estates, Radford's creativity knew no bounds.

One of the most famous Radford Minis was owned by none other than the legendary musician, Sir Paul McCartney. His custom Mini, often referred to as the "McCartney Mini," featured a range of personalized touches, including a luxurious leather interior, a bespoke paint job, and even a record player installed in the dashboard. Radford Minis became a symbol of style and individuality, attracting a diverse range of clientele. From actors to sports stars and socialites, owning a Radford Mini became a statement of taste and sophistication. The unique combination of the Mini's fun and agile nature with Radford's custom craftsmanship made these cars highly sought after.

Unfortunately, production of Radford Minis came to an end in 1974, following the closure of the British Leyland factory that manufactured the original Mini. For several decades, Radford Minis became cherished classics, sought after by collectors and enthusiasts around the world.

The history of Radford Minis is a testament to the passion, creativity, and innovation that have shaped the automotive industry. From coachbuilding to iconic custom creations, Radford has left an indelible mark on the world of luxury automobiles,