Evaluation: Driven to 3rd in class and 7th overall at the 1964 Monte Carlo Rally, driven by Rauno Aaltonen (who won the 1967 event in another Mini) and Tony Ambrose. Then used for publicity appearances. Driven by Paddy Hopkirk at the Prestwich Hill Climb for a promo appearance but nevertheless recorded the best time of the day. In private ownership it was rallied in several events during 1965. Restored in the 1980s and 1990s and rebodied during that time. Has regularly been invited to and appeared at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. In older restored competition car condition.
Bottom Line: 1964 was the year that Paddy Hopkirk’s red and white Mini triumphed at the Monte Carlo Rally despite big-money factory competition from Mercedes-Benz, Volvo and even Ford. More than any other event, that win established the Mini as a giant-killing performance car, and this Mini was part of that effort. A red and white Cooper S with rally equipment is the most famous image of a competition Mini. Other Minis such as Paul McCartney’s Cooper S and an ultra-rare Mini beach car have sold for more, but this rally Cooper is still one of the most expensive Minis ever sold. And it deserved to be.
