GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The 1978 Leyland Mini Moke, built in Australia, represents one of the most distinctive and enduring versions of this iconic light vehicle derived from the Mini. Originally designed in Great Britain in the 1960s as a light military vehicle, the Moke found great civilian success, especially in warm-climate countries, where it became a symbol of freedom and holidays. Australian production, which began in 1966 and continued until the early 1980s, introduced several improvements over the early British versions, including larger wheels, a wider track, and a more robust structure, suitable for use on difficult terrain. The 1978 model was powered by the well-known Austin-Morris engine of approximately 1,000 cc, simple, reliable, and easy to maintain. The Mini Moke had a relatively limited production run: approximately 26,000 units were built in Australia, making it one of the most popular variants, but still highly sought-after by collectors today. It was sold mainly in Australia, but was also exported to New Zealand, South-East Asia and some European tourist areas, where it became a true cult object linked to the seaside lifestyle of the seventies.
LOT DESCRIPTION
Car in excellent condition, fully and meticulously RESTORED with 44,000 kilometers on the odometer. Rare example with collectible value. ASI REGISTERED (CRS), Certificate of Identity with GOLD PLATE and FIVA Identity Card.
Original license plate from first registration in Rome, MATCHING NUMBERS.
Mechanically in perfect condition, it has been meticulously maintained over the last 25 years. Only three owners since its first registration (in Italy in 1979), the last two of whom are members of the same family that has owned the car since 1998 and who oversaw the complete two-year restoration in 2014/2015.