Hi All

Looking at getting back into the mini scene. Already owned 2 but the 2nd wasnt the most motivating experience (had to take it from an unregistered to registered state - not overly difficult though in WA).

Im interested in buying an imported mini from Japan that is already in WA but not registered. It is an 88 model with air con etc, but not converted to ADR standards yet? The owner is happy to do this before selling. Just wondering if anyone know what ADR standards have to be met AND then how difficult it would be to license in Aus.

Cheers

Oh and they are a Rover Mini.

Also I assume it is better to pick something like this up than an older model again - less hassles?

Or am I misinforming myself??

Older cars aren't always less hassles.
Parts from aussie cars can be a bit easier to get hold of than the rovers, but then some of the rare parts are harder to get again.
Brickworx is the man to talk to on this stuff, he does it for a living.

A lot of it is cost related, if you have a big budget, do a rover with 1.3i, AC etc,
a bit less will get you a car as you described, but the same again will quite often get
an aussie car in really good condition, with the usual extras (1.3, discs, etc).

Just because the cars a later model does not mean less hassles. Depends on how it was looked after and how many times it's been around the block.

Looking into the engine bay of a Rover or a Morris... I know which one id rather be working on....

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http://www.youtube.com/user/Hanras

Don't forget insurance. Get a quote on a Rover and a Morris. You'll find insurance is a whole lot cheaper for a modified Morris than a standard Rover.

true true...

Things I should look into really. What worries me the most atm is getting it over the pits.
I dont have the time to worry bout it and am not sure what things they may catch me out for in an imported vehicle. If it was OZ built it wouldnt be too much a drama (only the time factor)...

I'll be interested to hear whether you find this really to be the case. I pay peanuts for my 1988 model with Shannons.

As for reliability, I've had my car for two years and it hasn't let me down. As for room in the engine bay, yup, there isn't much there.

I'm interested in understanding why you want one unregistered? I can only assume it is to save $$ - do you mind telling us what is your budget?

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One should never skimp on the zip ties.

compliance is around $1500-2500 from places that can do it

but your best talking with steve O'mally - www.brickworx.com.au

To be honest I dont want 1 unregistered - much 1 registered.

Im only wanting to spend aroung the $6k mark and this one was going for a bit more. The only problem is it needs to be pit passed - it has had the ADR modifications made already. I havent spoken to seller bout it yet, but next question would be 'why not license it if its that easy and sell it for more?'

There is another Rover 1988 in good condition for sale for $8k I am looking at tomorrow.

A decent price but a little over the budget.

In regards to insurance - my late model car I have now is insured with RAC at a relatively low cost and they insured my 2 clubmans for a decent premium. I think insurance would be the least of my worries (but still good to check it out)

Will let you know if I check this other 1 out

i found that there was only 2 insurance companies (shannons and just cars) that would insure me as its an imported vehicle

Yeah, but you're only 13 or something. No one would insure you for a Camry, let alone an imported car.

As Harley said, you can get a nice Aussie mini for the same as a stock imported one. BUT, if you're hellbent on it, like our midnight worshipping friend said, Steve O-Malley is the guy to talk to. He owns Brickworx, which is a mini company that now specialises in Rover minis.

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"I'm sorry, but a lack of planning on your part does not constitute an emergency on my part!"

beanme if your 13y.o. then why do you need a car ?

My 88 rover is insured with RACV. I mdon't know what that translates to in SA and WA but there you go.

6-8k should buy BeanMe an aussie mini, with rego no problems.

I'm sure a complied rover could be had for 6-8 no problems either, though the aussie car may have a bigger than 998 engine (not that thats an issue, lots of rovers have 1.3 and mine a 1.1). If I was selling my rover (im not) I'd not be chasing more than 6.5-7k for it.

I know minis are scarce in WA, and if the budget can extend to 8k, consider looking for interstate vehicles.

Ok, I made my earlier statement with nothing to back it up, so I rang and got a quote.
Currently I am 29 rating 1 in SA with 'limited use'. (means I only drive my mini once or twice a week) And full comprehensive insurance. No finance. And multi policy discount of 5%.

My 1967 Morris Deluxe with mags and stereo is insured for $6,500 and cost an annual fee of $302.00

I was quoted for a standard 1988 Rover Mini agreed value of $7000 an annual fee of $464.25

I guess it's peanuts V macadamias.

im selling a 1988 Rover Actually

http://www.ausmini.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=40145