Oldest unrestored Mini to make $25,000 at auction

This is the oldest unrestored Mini in existence, and the 1959 Austin Mini Se7en is being auctioned by Bonhams next week. Despite its rather dilapidated condition, it's expected to fetch around $25,000.

Designed by Sir Alec Issignois and revolutionising the packaging of small cars with its transverse engine, this particular car was the eighth Mini of its type to roll off the Longbridge production line in May 1959 — preceding the car's August launch by three months.

The rundown Mini is in De Luxe Saloon specification and comes complete with all the original features — including the innovative car's glass washer bottle. Seat belts, door mirrors, a heater and a radio were all options back in 1959, even on De Luxe trim.

The MKI Mini's 848cc engine has just 30,041 miles on the clock and even has records of servicing work — there's a brake service label stuck to the car's doorjamb showing routine maintenance at 19,742 miles.

The car's motor hasn't turned for 'many years', according to the auction description, so there's real potential that the Mini's engine would be in need of a complete rebuild.

Which is by the by, as the condition of the shell — there's evidence of corrosion in the front floors, A-pillars, sills, doors, rear seat well, boot floor and rear valance — means you'll probably need extremely deep pockets if you're thinking of restoration.

Or, you could leave one of the most iconic and revolutionary cars ever in its current condition and just ogle it as an automotive ornament — maintaining its claim to fame as the oldest unrestored original Mini in existence.