1965 Austin Mini Countryman

Description

Few cars are as instantly recognizable—or as historically important—as the original Mini. Introduced in 1959, the Mini became a global icon thanks to its revolutionary transverse‑engine and front‑wheel‑drive layout, remarkable interior space efficiency, and lively handling. Over its lengthy production run, the Mini was offered in a wide variety of configurations. Among the most distinctive was the Austin Countryman/Morris Traveler, which combined the nimble personality of the standard Mini with extended cargo space, sliding‑glass doors, a longer wheelbase, and exposed ashwood body framing that evoked classic “woodie” estate cars. These early "woodie" estates have since become some of the most charming and collectible versions of the original Mini.

This left-hand drive 1965 Austin Mini Countryman, finished in blue with ash wood body framing over a blue vinyl interior, presents a very charming example of the early long‑roof Mini. Notable features include sliding door windows and rear barn doors, while recent maintenance included replacement of the starter, starter solenoid, radiator, and flasher unit.

This 1965 Austin Mini Countryman is now offered in Colorado with an Austin Mini Driver’s Handbook, workshop manuals, a roof rack, a recent service record, and a clean Pennsylvania title in the seller’s name.

Highlights

• Left-hand-drive Austin Mini Countryman estate model

• Finished in Blue with ash wood exterior trim

• Light Blue vinyl interior with sliding door windows

• Recent documented service

• The chassis number (AAW7L229373) decodes as:

  • A – Manufacturer: Austin (non‑Cooper, non‑S)

  • A – Engine type: A‑series engine (848cc)

  • W – Body type: Estate (Traveler/Countryman, with or without wood)

  • 7 – Series: Mk I Austin

  • L – Steering/trim: Left‑hand drive

  • 229373 – Sequential production number: Unique build number assigned within the overall production sequence

Factory Equipment

• Smiths gauges including speedometer and auxiliary instrumentation

• Extended wheelbase with barn‑door rear hatch configuration

• Sliding front door window glass

• Barn‑door rear cargo access

• Ash wood exterior trim and framing

• 10" steel wheels

Servicing & Documentation

The following documented service was performed by Sports Car Craftsmen in December 2025 (see “Service Records” attached under “Additional Documents and Media” for further details):

• Coil and ignition system repaired

• Spark plugs replaced

• Radiator, cap, and thermostat replaced

• Various engine gaskets replaced

• Fuses cleaned to address turn signal issue

Known Imperfections

• When driven regularly, the engine starts promptly; after sitting for extended periods, the car is said to require additional cranking before starting

• Age-related paint and interior imperfections consistent with a 61‑year‑old vehicle

• Engine tag missing

• Door locks need to be rekeyed

Ownership History

From the seller: "I’ve owned this Mini for about 1.5 years. We had plans for it to be featured in a small business, but that didn’t work out. We’re relocating for work soon, and I’d love to see it in the hands of a Mini enthusiast who will continue to care for it. It drives well and benefits from regular driving.

It shifts, brakes, and steers very well. No shimmy in the wheel, no concerns about stopping. It has all the sounds and physical experience of a vintage Mini. There is an idle control knob and choke; once it’s warmed up, you can lower the idle and it idles smoothly."

Included

• Extra matching upholstery fabric

• Austin Mini Driver’s Handbook

• Workshop manuals

• Stockl gauges

• Roof rack