California's Vtec Mini Specialists

Ordering

How it works

Design your Car

The first step is to set up a consultation call. We will guide you through our product options and help you select your style, pick your colors, features, options, upgrades, and the motor to power your car. Now offering our new Tesla EV platform. No two Super Coopers are alike, because each build is uniquely tailored to you. Receive personalized design assistance and recommendations from the owner Tyler Gildred. A rendering of your car is done upon request. Text us at (805) 319-0317 to set up a consultation call.

Select your donor car

The second stage is locating the right car for your project. We will select the right donor car from our collection or source one from our network. We stock over 20 donor cars ranging from early Mk1 Coopers to Pickup trucks. We remove all components from the donor car and use all new or refurbished parts to complete each build. All Super Cooper builds go through a meticulous ground up restoration. We buy and sell cars regularly If you already own a Mini schedule an inspection.

  • Donor shells range between $15-25k

  • 90% of components are new

  • Schedule a phone consultation

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Reservations and Billing

All builds begin with an initial phone consultation. In order to begin your Super Cooper all components must be selected and ordered prior to initiating the build. We require a 25% deposit to confirm your waitlist position. Further payments are billed monthly until the project is completed. Build durations vary based on the complexity of the project. We build a limited number of cars per year and take pride in our customer service.

the Super cooper production process

Step 1: Inspection

The first stage in our process consists of a comprehensive 200 point inspection process. We inspect all aspects of the vehicle to determine which direction to take. In some cases the donor car may not meet our quality control standards and a substitute will be located.

Step 2: Dismantling

The second step in our process is completely dismantling the car to determine which components can be used or must be replaced. Once the car is completely dismantled every aspect of the vehicle is meticulously inspected for signs of damage and rust. We replace panels that show signs of rust or imperfections. Most body panels are still manufactured and can be obtained easily but some elements are not and must be repaired. In many cases the rust can be topical such as the engine bay and foot wells due to brake fluid which erodes paint. Once we are happy with the body and fitment of doors, bonnet and boot lid we move to the next stage.

Step 3: Ordering

After assessing what is required to complete the build we begin by ordering drivetrain components as they have the longest lead time. Next we begin placing orders for all necessary elements from windows to brake pads. We don’t begin the build until all critical components have been ordered. We have a large stock of standard components which keeps our build times shorter. Some builds can be delayed when out of stock or custom order items are requested.

Step 4: Fabrication

Depending on the model selected our fabrication process may differ but all builds require a significant amount of metal panel removal and replacement. Additionally we introduce strengthening components by welding in order to increase torsional rigidity. When upgrading performance to the degree we do it is imperative that the strength of the body is improved to meet our requirements. At this point we also create all necessary brackets and custom components such as intakes, exhaust systems, etc.

Step 5: Test Fit

At this point we install the subframes and test fit each of the drivetrain elements. It is important to test clearance and make sure all body parts are aligned properly prior to paint. Once test fit is done we dismantle the car and prepare it for paint. At this stage we also bench test the engine, electronic, and hydraulic components to ensure smooth operation prior to instal.

Step 6: Paint & Body

At this stage we deliver a completely bare shell with doors, bonnet, arches, seam seals, boot lid, and other painted components to our painters. This is a critical stage that is often rushed by builders, we require this to be done in all Super Cooper builds. A ground up restoration like this takes time but the result is incredible. This stage takes several weeks to complete depending on the condition of the body.

Step 7: Install

Once we have test fitted the freshly painted shell and are happy with the door gaps and fitment we begin installing brake and fuel lines, electrical wiring, subframes, suspension, Drivetrain, and more.

Step 8: Interior

At this stage the car is operational and is ready for upholstery. Depending on the level of interior complexity we begin with the headliner and work down. The car is delivered to ur upholsterers for premium level interiors. Basic interiors are completed in house and recovering is outsourced. The stereo system, A/C, and electronic components are installed in conjunction with the interior. Once complete the car will be ready for road testing.

Step 9: Test & Tune

We perform an extensive test and tune prior to delivery. Each Super Cooper must complete a 150mi brake in, and pass our five point on road test, which consists of handling, ride quality, acceleration, braking, and long distance driving. Suspension, braking and alignment adjustments are addressed in this stage.