Mini Specialist of the Month

Article in December Edition of Mini Magazine"

The John Cooper Works premises may have closed its premises in July,but a new firm has ensured the famous name is still alive and kicking in the classic mini scene.Since August,former John Cooper staffer Mike Raven has been busy setting up his own car sales and accesories buisness.Located just down the road from the old premises,Classic Minis is the only offically Approved specialist to supply and fit Cooper Branded parts.

Mike certainly knows the name inside out.Having run several departments at Cooper garages sine 1993,he progressed into car sales in 2001 and count the likes of Simon Cowell as his clients.Unsurprisingly,Mike is keen to keep the high standards associated with Cooper Garages.With the exception of Project cars,all cars are sold with a 12 Month warranty in line with those sold by Cooper Garages.

Mike can also call on the services of an original Cooper Works fitter to install the tuning kits,while all bodywork is taken care of  buy RW Masters who paint Hondat Touring cars and McLaren Prototypes.

At the time of our visit Mike had some very special cars on display,including a mint MK1 and S90 BHP ex John Cooper Works demonstrator,Pride of place though goes to Mike Cooper's former pride and joy.The famous H15 FUN number plate have gone,but it still ranks as one of the most desirable Minis.

In addition to car sales Mike can offer a range of aftermarket accessories.As well as Cooper Branded items,Classic Minis is also a agent for Mini Tastic long stroke suspension kits and Hythe Performance Parts.There even a Aladdin's cave of original '60s parts at the back of the showroom,

Classic Minis may have only been open a few months,bt during our visit we got the impresion that Mike is a true enthuisiast with a real feeling for the classic mini."I want to keep all the classic minis in the area looked after",he says."It keeps the flag flying for John Cooper".