Product Description
Bodyshell MkI Saloon 1960-67 - HMP441050 - BHM
British Motor Heritage (BMH) has long since been at the forefront of supplying individual panels for all marks of Classic Mini, and complete bodyshells for models from 1976 onwards. What's been missing until now is the Holy Grail, a full replacement shell for the Classic Mini MK1, but the wait is now over!
The early Classic Mini MK1 body is markedly different from its later counterparts. The major variances include:
- Smaller door aperture with different step profiles; sliding window doors with external hinges; rear window; rear side windows; rear light mountings
- Different 'A' panels and hinge reinforcements; cant rails; floors; sills; front and rear parcel shelves; switch panel; boot panel, bonnet and inner valances; front valance and number plate mounting
Since creating the prototype body, BMH has commissioned additional tooling to refine the finish and improve the build quality. The company is indebted to M-Machine for allowing it to use their Classic Mini MK1 floors and sills, as the cost of retooling these items would have made the project unviable. BMH has also used the later front bulkhead crossmember assembly as retooling for this non-visual part would have been prohibitive, and opted not to form the rotodip hole in the rear seat squab; recognising that a significant element of demand for the new Classic Mini MK1 shells will almost certainly be for historic motorsport.
We have 'Stan the Man' with a van, primed and ready to deliver your bodyshell - please call for details!
Frequently Asked Questions
How authentic is this bodyshell compared to the original 1960s version?
Our bodyshells are manufactured using the original BMC press tooling and assembly jigs, ensuring dimensional accuracy that matches factory specifications. Every distinctive MkI feature - from the smaller door apertures to the external hinges - is precisely replicated.
I'm concerned about rust protection. What treatments are applied?
Each shell receives modern electrocoated protection, significantly superior to the original 1960s rotodip process. However, we recommend additional rust-proofing treatment before painting, particularly in cavity sections.
Will this shell accept all my original MkI trim and fittings?
Yes. We've maintained absolute authenticity in mounting points and apertures. All original MkI-specific components - including sliding windows, external hinges and distinctive rear light mountings - will fit precisely as they did in period.
I'm planning a historic racing build. Is this shell suitable?
Indeed. We've specifically engineered these shells with historic motorsport in mind. For example, we've omitted the rotodip hole in the rear seat squab, which saves weight and simplifies race preparation. The shell is fully compliant with FIA historic racing regulations.
How do I verify this is a genuine Heritage shell?
Each bodyshell carries a unique British Motor Heritage approval plate and certification. You can verify authenticity through our registration database if needed.
Can you explain the M-Machine floor and sill integration?
We've incorporated proven M-Machine tooling for floors and sills, which maintains authentic specifications while ensuring commercial viability. This helps manage costs without compromising quality or period correctness.
What's the typical lead time for delivery?
Current lead times vary due to high demand. Please contact us directly for the most current scheduling information. We can also discuss specific delivery requirements for your project timeline.
How authentic is this bodyshell compared to the original 1960s version?
Our bodyshells are manufactured using the original BMC press tooling and assembly jigs, ensuring dimensional accuracy that matches factory specifications. Every distinctive MkI feature - from the smaller door apertures to the external hinges - is precisely replicated.
I'm concerned about rust protection. What treatments are applied?
Each shell receives modern electrocoated protection, significantly superior to the original 1960s rotodip process. However, we recommend additional rust-proofing treatment before painting, particularly in cavity sections.
Will this shell accept all my original MkI trim and fittings?
Yes. We've maintained absolute authenticity in mounting points and apertures. All original MkI-specific components - including sliding windows, external hinges and distinctive rear light mountings - will fit precisely as they did in period.
I'm planning a historic racing build. Is this shell suitable?
Indeed. We've specifically engineered these shells with historic motorsport in mind. For example, we've omitted the rotodip hole in the rear seat squab, which saves weight and simplifies race preparation. The shell is fully compliant with FIA historic racing regulations.
How do I verify this is a genuine Heritage shell?
Each bodyshell carries a unique British Motor Heritage approval plate and certification. You can verify authenticity through our registration database if needed.
Can you explain the M-Machine floor and sill integration?
We've incorporated proven M-Machine tooling for floors and sills, which maintains authentic specifications while ensuring commercial viability. This helps manage costs without compromising quality or period correctness.
What's the typical lead time for delivery?
Current lead times vary due to high demand. Please contact us directly for the most current scheduling information. We can also discuss specific delivery requirements for your project timeline.