Back up for sale, we have a 1988 classic Mini with a VTEC D15 JDM motor installed in a MiniTec MTD front subframe. It’s a running driving swap with plenty of thoughtful upgrades throughout. Some of the standout mods include our Super Cooper custom-welded aluminum intake manifold, a custom fuel rail, a short shifter, and a coil-on-plug conversion that replaces the standard plugs. It’s a setup that delivers both reliability and performance. That being said we were only able to do a preliminary test drive and inspection in texas. During  the short road test the car performed well. We had the car shipped to our facility here in Santa Barbara CA for a thorough inspection. Initially priced at $50k we have reduced the asking price do to the list of required repairs which are noted below. 

One of the most unique features is the air conditioning system. Rather than using a traditional engine-mounted compressor, this build features a Vintage Air system paired with an electronic compressor mounted in the boot. We tested it—it blows cold air and solves the A/C challenge most VTEC Minis struggle with.

Interior: the car features a full interior swap from a newer-era Mini, likely around 2010. It fit right in without major modification, which is pretty remarkable. While it’s not trimmed to a Super Cooper level, it’s comfortable and fully functional. The dash could use a new switch panel and a few minor updates, but overall, it looks nice.

Driving:  The torque steer is minimal, and the power delivery is smooth and lively. It’s the kind of car someone can buy and enjoy—after resolving a few issues. We have attached our 200pt inspection. 

We do have a list of recommended improvements to take it to the next level, but as it stands, though it is running and driving this is to be considered a project. It has all the correct components of a VTEC-swapped Mini. If you’ve been looking for a Vtec Build in a more affordable price point, this car is a fantastic place to start. 

The car is registered with a Texas title. Sadly no it’s not a California legal car yet. If Jet Leno can make progress with his classic car bill that could change!  

200pt Inspection

-Engine:

Passenger side motor mount is completely disintegrated and is now metal on metal

Oil leaks- pan gasket, valve cover gasket, possible main seal leak, distributor seal

PCV hose collapses under vacuum

misfire when revving (possible burned valve?)

stalls while warming up when cold

uneven power balance 

missing exhaust downpipe bolt

exhaust system loose and very low hanging, has been hit multiple times 

excessive NVH

deteriorated transmission mount

Intake air sensor not connected

Rear torsion mount loose

Check engine light not working

Radiator is not mounted properly , can move freely

-Electrical

intermittent LH high beam

incorrect high/low beam operation

dash switches not fixed in place

LH rear speaker not mounted 

no dome light 

alternator mounted to frame instead of engine

Alternator belt rubbing on motor mount

Windshield motor not mounted to anything, moves freely

-HVAC

A/C does not always turn off once activated

heater does not get warm

No defrost vents. 

-Interior

no sun visors

no dome light

spray painted door cards to match seats

upper dash pad modified (defrost vents removed) & sun damaged

spray painted lower dash pad, zip tied in place

shift gaiter not installed properly

C pillar covers not correctly installed/ falling out

-Body

missing 1/2 of right and left door hinge bolts-to body

driver door misaligned

rust present at bottom of drivers door

rust present along rear seam lines

Drain holes have been plugged in passenger door

front valance below bumper cut off & bolted back on

incorrect quarter light glass. 

front floor corners pushed in

excessive orange peel in paint

light spots due to uneven/inadequate paint coverage

bulb seal attached to roof gutter harboring excessive dirt and moisture

-Mechanical

LH rear control arm bushing worn

stiff clutch/ improper hydraulic ratio

rear drums out of adjustment 

spongy brake pedal

parking brake needs adjustment

Front shock towers on wrong sides

pulls to the right under acceleration (wheel alignment suspected) 

All of the above points are visual and physical observations made without disassembly or removal of any component of the vehicle. Further labor would be required to properly diagnose and pinpoint additional specific issues and confirm suspected faults.