Today's post started out as a simple search for a De Tomaso Pantera.  You know, to continue on with the Marcelo Gandini theme from the end of last week.  What we unearthed in that search was a vehicle that was heretofore unbeknownst to us: the Innocenti Mini De Tomaso, penned by none other than Signore Gandini himself.

Similar, in a sense, to the licensing agreement accompanying the production of yesterday's Polsky Fiat 126P, Innocenti developed a Bertone-styled version of the BLMC Mini, after British Leyland Motor Company purchased Innocenti in 1972.  At the onset of sales, buyers could opt for either 998cc or 1275cc BMC A-series engines.The De Tomaso trim added the hood scoop, fender flares, and fog lights.  Engine output on the De Tomaso began at 71bhp and ended up with a bump to 74bhp - not bad in a 1,600lb runabout.

Year: 1980
Model: Innocenti Mini De Tomaso
Engine: 1275cc 4-cyl
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Mileage:  94,150km
Price: $14,900 Obo

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1980 Innocenti Mini De Tomaso

Very rare 1980 Mini Innocenti De Tomaso in mint condition. Very rare in North America. Italian MIni with all British Leyland running gear Left hand drive. 94150 km Hatchback Body by Bertone with practical rear fold-down seat. Full gauges. 1275cc Mini engine engine (NOT the 3 cylinder Diahtsu) producing 77HP. 4 speed transmission.

The car is mechanically sound. It starts, runs and drives well. It runs a 998cc inline-four mated to a 4-speed manual transmission and was regularly maintained. Engine sounds good and transmission shifts well. The clutch feels great. All fluids are up to date. The paint is mint for its age. Solid body and floors. The interior is in mint shape. The dash is great. The alloy wheels are very nice and tires are good . The suspension and brakes are good. The lights work. All instrumentation is in good working order. Clean title.

More pics here (including underside, interior and engien bay):

https://www.ebayphotogallery.com/zdjecia/Galeria/10420894/1

Having said all that, this is an old sports car, and it is not perfect. The car is sold AS IS. You are encouraged to come and inspect it.

The seller notes a generally favorable condition on this example.  Paint, brakes, instrumentation, clutch, suspension, interior and lighting are all reported to be in good shape.  The seller claims that the body and floors are solid; whether or whether not "solid" translates to rust-free is up to potential buyers to ascertain.  These cars are not exactly known for their steadfast resistance to rust.  What's more, sellers will be relieved to find mechanical components at their British parts retailer of choice.

We think that the premium over a BMC Mini is worth it in this case.  The Gandini styling does certainly improve on what was a classic shape to begin with.  Let us know if you buy it and end up swapping a Faza-spec Fiat 1300 into this thing - not that we're suggesting that...

-Graham