2001 Rover Mini Cooper Sport 500

KEY FACTS

• A highly iconic, collectible and characterful limited-edition modern British classic car, representing the final iteration of the original Rover Mini, the Cooper Sport 500.
• It is powered by a naturally aspirated 1.3-litre inline-four engine, driving the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission.
• First registered in January 2001, this example has had one keeper from new.
• This Mini Cooper Sport 500 is one of the last 500 Minis ever built to the original Sir Alec Issigonis design, with all examples produced as a limited edition; with a special metal commemoration plate found on the inside of the glove compartment.
• The odometer shows a modest 51,921 miles from new.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• The Cooper Sport model was produced as a run-out special edition to commemorate the end of Mini production, which featured ‘Sports Pack’ extended wheel arches, 13-inch Minilite alloy wheels, quad front spot lamps, a two-tone black and silver leather-trimmed interior, and a machine-turned aluminium dashboard with magnolia gauges.
• This example is finished in the attractive hue of Tahiti Blue with a contrasting Platinum Silver roof, door mirrors and racing stripes, over a Black and Nickel-Silver leather-trimmed interior, featuring an aluminium gear knob, door handles, and window winders.
• It rides on a set of 13-inch Minilite alloy wheels with green centre caps, fitted with Yokohama A539 tyres.
• Equipment includes quad front spotlights, chrome front and rear nudge bars, a heated rear screen, push-out rear windows, an analogue clock, a European-spec 12-volt lighter socket, and basic heater and ventilation controls.
• The engine was upgraded in 2010 with a Bill Richards Racing ‘Chamber Profile Fast Road’ cylinder head specification.
• This example is also fitted with a Pioneer Radio Cassette stereo with multi CD changer, though the original stereo is included in the sale.
• The seller notes that a tracker has always been fitted to the car and it was replaced with an updated unit in March 2026, and the account can be passed on to the new owner, who can set up their own subscription to the tracker service.
• The car is accompanied by its Cooper Sport Final 500 service books and handbook, a signed authenticity certificate, and the special-edition gift pack including a T-shirt, a fleece, a cap, silver metal card holder and atomiser, cigarette lighter, and a messenger bag.
• It is supplied with two sets of keys.

CONDITION

• Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition.
• Specific notes from the seller include: small, isolated spots of surface rust are present, consistent with age; the car has been predominantly garaged and stored in an inflated Carcoon system. The interior shows general wear from earlier use as a daily driver.
• The most recent MOT test was on 10 March 2026 at an indicated 51,906 miles, resulting in a first-time pass with advisories. These included: nearside rear tyre slightly damaged/cracking or perishing, play in both nearside and offside steering rack inner joints, and slight play in both upper and lower offside front suspension arm ball joints. The seller states that these advisories were attended to after the MOT test at 51,921 miles.

SERVICE HISTORY

• The seller states that last maintenance was carried out May 2026 at 51,921 miles by South Western Coach Works Ltd and Kwik Fit, which included attending to the MOT advisories and replacing tyres.
• In March 2026 at 51,906 miles, South Western Coach Works Ltd replaced the engine oil and filter change.
• In December 2024, at 51,890 miles, technicians at South Western Coach Works Ltd carried out a service.
• Notable past work includes a stage 3 engine modification by Mini Speed in 2004, a gearbox replacement in 2005, and cylinder head upgrade by Bill Richards Racing in 2010.

Dates and Mileages:

• Feb 2001 - 1,255 miles - Park Lane Aftersales Rover (evidenced)
• Jul 2001 - 5,980 miles - Park Lane Aftersales Rover (evidenced)
• Jan 2002 - 11,438 miles - F.J. Keen & Sons Ltd Rover (evidenced)
• Jan 2003 - 17,799 miles - John Cooper Garages Ltd (evidenced)
• Nov 2003 - 19,623 miles - John Cooper Works (evidenced)
• Dec 2004 - 21,449 miles - Minispeed (evidenced)
• Nov 2005 - 26,111 miles - Minispeed (evidenced)
• Dec 2006 - 32,573 miles - Minispeed (evidenced)
• Nov 2007 - 39,150 miles - Minispeed (evidenced)
• Oct 2008 - 46,251 miles - Mini-R-Us trading as Ivan Stacy Recovery Ltd (evidenced)
• March 2011 - 50,553 - Bill Richards Racing (evidenced)
• August 2020 - 5,1352 - D&D Autos Ashford Ltd. (evidenced)
• Dec 2024 - 51,890 miles - South Western Coach Works Ltd (evidenced)
• Mar 2026 - 51,906 miles - South Western Coach Works Ltd (evidenced)

SUMMARY

This Rover Mini Cooper Sport 500 is a desirable example of one of the last 500 Minis ever built of the iconic British car, presented in a classic colour combination and benefiting from long-term ownership. It is noted by the seller to make everyone in and around it smile, and be the subject of endless compliments. Its modest mileage, limited-final edition status, and period performance upgrades add to its appeal for enthusiasts and it would make an engaging and characterful addition to any collection, or an enjoyable companion for spirited weekend drives and classic car events.

Descriptions are provided by the seller and, to their knowledge, are accurate and not misleading. Buyers must satisfy themselves of the description’s accuracy, and independent research is strongly advised. Enquiries should be raised in the comments section and any inspections arranged before bidding.

Classic and collectible vehicles may have had cosmetic or bodywork repairs that are not visually apparent. Photographs may not accurately reflect colour or condition, so buyers should confirm key details directly with the seller. Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalised, or heritage vehicle registration is not included in the sale of a car or bike. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.