Vintage Mini auctions for £40,000

The UK's oldest Mini, which has never been restored, has gone under the hammer for more than double its original estimated price.

It was predicted to sell for £15,000 - but has smashed its estimate at £40,250 instead. Auctioneer Bonhams said the 1959 Austin Mini Seven De Luxe is the eighth car from the Longbridge production line, and was brought out to the public three months before the official launch date.

So far the Mini has clocked up 30,041 miles and its 848cc engine has been left untouched - apart from the standard maintenance checks - according to the auctioneers. Its owner used to be a Gladys Hobro from Aldwick, West Sussex, before David Gallimore bought it 25 years ago. Since then he has stored the car in his Chichester garage until 2011.

Vintage car lovers were able to view the Mini at Bonham's Collectors' Motor cars and Memorabilia auction on April 30. The new owner's name has not been released but it is hoped they purchased breakdown cover if they intend to drive it on the roads as it is a very old car.

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