Austin Mini 95 (1979-83)

Overview: The **Austin Mini 95 Pick-up**, introduced in **1979**, was a significant model for Austin and **British Leyland**, as it marked the **final evolution** of the Mini-based commercial vehicles. It was designed as a **compact, practical workhorse**, appealing to **small businesses, tradespeople, and rural users**.

Key Significance:

- **Rebranding & Weight Classification**: The Mini Pick-up was **rebranded as the "Mini 95"** in 1978, reflecting its **0.95-ton gross vehicle weight**, rather than payload capacity.

- **Durability & Versatility**: It retained the **rugged, simple design** of earlier Mini Pick-ups, making it a **reliable choice** for commercial users.

- **Extended Production Life**: Despite the Mini’s age, the Pick-up variant remained in production until **1983**, proving its lasting appeal.

- **Part of British Leyland’s Commercial Lineup**: It complemented other Mini-based commercial models, such as the **Mini Van**, offering a **compact alternative** to larger British Leyland vans.

The **Mini 95 Pick-up** was a **sturdy, dependable vehicle** that helped Austin maintain a presence in the **light commercial vehicle market** well into the 1980s. 

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COMMON FAULTS

Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The Austin Mini Pick-up from 1979-83 shares many common faults with other classic Minis of that era. Here are some issues you might encounter:

1. **Rust and Corrosion**: This is a major issue, especially in areas like the floor pans, sills, A-pillars, and subframes.

2. **Electrical Problems**: Issues with the wiring loom, poor connections, and faulty switches can cause various electrical problems.

3. **Engine and Transmission**: Oil leaks from the engine and gearbox are common. The A-Series engine, while reliable, can suffer from worn timing chains and head gasket failures.

4. **Suspension and Steering**: Worn suspension components, such as rubber cones and ball joints, can lead to poor handling and a rough ride.

5. **Brakes**: Uneven braking can be caused by worn or contaminated brake pads and linings.

Keeping an eye on these areas can help maintain your Mini Pick-up in good condition.

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Generations

The Austin Mini Pick-up, produced from 1961 to 1983, is generally considered to have gone through a single generation with various updates and improvements over the years¹. Unlike the modern Mini, which has distinct generational changes, the classic Mini Pick-up maintained its core design throughout its production run.

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Production Total: The Austin Mini 95 Pickup, produced between 1979 and 1983, had a total production of **58,179 units**.

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Price New: In 1976, the new price for an Austin Mini 95 Pickup in the UK was approximately **£1,248**.

To find out what £1,248 from 1976 would be worth in 2025, we can use an inflation calculator. According to the Bank of England's inflation calculator, £1,248 in 1976 is equivalent to approximately **£9,000** in 2025.

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Main Rivals (Price): In 1976, the Austin Mini 95 Pickup had several rivals in the UK market. Here are some of the new prices for these competing models:

- **Ford Escort Popular 1000**: £1,599

- **Vauxhall Chevette hatchback**: £1,934

- **Volkswagen Golf**: £2,099

These prices give a sense of the range of options available to car buyers in the mid-1970s. The Austin Mini 95 Pickup was positioned as a practical and economical option among its rivals.

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Engine/s

The Austin Mini Pick-up, produced from 1961 to 1983, primarily used the following engines:

1. **848cc A-Series Engine**: This was the standard engine for many early Mini Pick-ups, known for its simplicity and reliability¹.

2. **998cc A-Series Engine**: Introduced later, this engine provided a bit more power and was commonly used in Mini Pick-ups from the late 1960s onwards¹.

3. **1098cc A-Series Engine**: This engine was available in some models, offering improved performance over the smaller engines¹.

These engines were part of the iconic A-Series family, which was known for its durability and ease of maintenance.

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Recorded in UK 2025: As of 2025, there are **51 Austin Mini 95 Pickup** cars recorded in the UK, with **25 licensed** and **26 registered as SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification).

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Target Age Group: The **Austin Mini 95 Pick-up**, introduced in **1979**, was primarily aimed at **small business owners, tradespeople, and rural users** who needed a **compact, reliable, and economical** commercial vehicle. It was designed as a **workhorse** for those in industries such as **retail, farming, and local deliveries**, offering practicality and affordability.

While there wasn’t a strict age group defined for its target market, it was generally purchased by **working professionals in their 20s to 50s**, particularly those looking for a **cost-effective and durable** van for their business needs.

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Spares

You can find spares for your 1979-83 Mini Pick-up at several places in the UK and Ireland:

1. **British Motor Heritage Limited**: They offer a wide range of parts for classic Minis, including body panels and other components.

2. **SC Parts**: This site specializes in classic Mini parts and offers a comprehensive selection for various models.

3. **Mini Spares**: Known for their extensive inventory, they provide both genuine and remanufactured parts for classic Minis.

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Specialists

Here are some Austin Mini specialists in the UK and Ireland:

1. **Paul Higgs Cars**: Located in the UK, they specialize in classic Minis and offer a range of services including sales, restoration, and maintenance.

2. **Classic Mini Spares**: Based in the UK, they provide a wide selection of parts and accessories for classic Minis.

3. **The Mini Specialist Register**: This directory lists independent Mini specialists across the UK and Ireland, making it easy to find a specialist near you.

**NORTHERN IRELAND AUSTIN SPECIALIST LIST**

Austin specialist mechanics in County Antrim, Northern Ireland:

1. McMillan Specialist Cars: They offer a wide range of services including maintenance, repairs, and full restorations. They are located at Unit 10, Plasketts Close, Kilbegs Road, Antrim BT41 4NN. You can contact them at 028 9335 49111.

2. Nufinish: With over 18 years of experience, they handle smart cosmetic and light damage repairs. They are located at Unit 24, Antrim Business Park, Randalstown Road, Antrim BT41 4LH. Their contact number is 028 9446 60142.

3. D S Autos: This garage specialises in all makes and models of car repairs, including servicing, diagnostics, and more. They are based at 67 Church St, Antrim BT41 4BE. You can reach them at 028 9446 66623.

Austin Specialists in County Armagh Northern Ireland

Here are a few options for Austin specialist mechanics in County Armagh, Northern Ireland:

1. McMullan Auto Services: They offer a range of services including car servicing, maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs. They are located at 85A Fergort Rd, Armagh BT60 3DN. You can contact them at 028 3753 17661.

2. Elite Motor Performance: This garage provides various auto repair services and is based in Armagh2.

3. Pittstop: Another option in Armagh, offering comprehensive garage services2.

If you need more details or have specific requirements, feel free to let me know!

Austin Specialist in County Down Northern Ireland

John Chatham Cars

• Location: Wellinghouse Farm, Moorhouse Lane, Hallen, Bristol BS10 7RT

• Services: Specializes in restoring, treating, and maintaining Austin Healeys and other classic British sports cars from the '50s, '60s, and '70s. They offer classic car restoration, servicing, and race preparation.

• Contact: You can reach them at 0117 950 1836. More information is available on their website.

Merlin Classic Cars

• Location: The Ropery, Unit 1C Redmoor Lane, Stockport SK22 3JL

• Services: Renowned for their restoration, maintenance, race preparation, and sales of all Austin Healey marques. They have over 30 years of experience in restoring classic and vintage vehicles.

• Contact: You can contact them at 01663 746499. More details can be found on their website.

Austin mechanic specialist in County FermanaghNorthern Ireland

1. Lochside Garages: While they are primarily Vauxhall dealers, they offer comprehensive servicing and repairs for various car brands. They are located at 22 Tempo Road, Enniskillen BT74 6HR. You can contact them at 028 6632 4366.

2. Enniskillen Motor Services: They provide a range of vehicle services, including diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance. They are based in Enniskillen.

3. Austin mechanic specialist in County Londonderry Northern Ireland

Austin specialist mechanics in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland:

1. Lloyd Cooke Motors Ltd: They provide expert vehicle maintenance and car bodywork repairs. Located at 53 Lismacarol Road, Londonderry BT47 3LZ. You can contact them at 028 7130 2100.

2. S M C Motors: Offering a range of garage services throughout County Londonderry.

3. Satnams Garage: Another reliable option for various auto repair services in Londonderry.

Austin specialist mechanics in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland:

1. KG Truck & Plant: Based in Dungannon, they offer mobile mechanics for plant machinery and hydraulic repairs. They provide 24/7 on-site services and have over 20 years of experience. You can contact them at 07771 904 505.

2. NR Trucks Ltd: Located at 70 Armagh Road, Dungannon, they offer a range of services for commercial vehicles. You can reach them at 028 8778 9775.

3. Tyrone Diesel Systems: Specialising in the testing and repair of diesel fuel systems, they are the only fully-authorised Bosch Diesel Centre in Northern Ireland. They are based in Omagh

These specialists should be able to help with any needs you have.

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