1994 Morris Mini mayfair review from UK and Ireland

Just fitted a new rear subframe and the factory-fitted exhaust has been exchanged for a stainless steel system.

I bought the car knowing it needed two front wings and a front panel and this was reflected in the price. It was a one-lady owner and had very low mileage.

I had her converted to a rag-top professionally and they did a superb job. Over 60 feet of welding go into the body strengthening, but the extra metal is unobtrusive even though the car now weighs over 28 lbs more than she did as a saloon. I was furnished with a four-page engineer's report that detailed all the work done and stated it was done to a vey high standard.

Inside the car I have a walnut dash, steering wheel, door cappings, gear knob, handbrake and door furniture. Of course, being a Mini, I have a mini-bar fitted in the glove box.

Outside all the black has been replaced with stainless steel including wheel arches. The stainless steel and silver paintwork is complemented by the black hood. The hood is only up at MOT time when my wimp of a mechanic collects it for its service and test. The remainder of the time it nestles under the hood bag and the interior is protected by a tonneau.

On the road the Mini has impeccable manners and the handling is outstanding. She loves to be driven and responds to adverse road conditions favourably. The bog standard 1000cc engine is very economical, but if the exhaust ever wears out I intend to go for a stage one tune up which will give me extre power, even better fuel consumption without affecting my insurance premiums. Seat adjusters give me another few inches legroom and I find the car very comfortable to drive - even over long distances. Buzzing down the country lanes on a summer's evening with the top down has to be experienced.