Austin Mini BAC M-30 1989 - World Of Classic Cars -

Austin Mini BAC M-30 1989

In celebration of the Mini’s 30th anniversary in 1989, one speciality aftermarket supplier, the British Automotive Co., decided to pull out all the stops and create the ultimate Mini. The result was the M-30. 
The example presented here, finished in Dark Green Metallic Pearl was treated to the full M-30 body conversion, which included prominent wheel arches and a modified front bumper. The exterior colour was co-ordinated with the lamp bezels, door handles and grille surround, eliminating all the exterior brightwork with the exception of the large hallmarked M-30 solid silver badge and the rims of the 6x13 alloy wheels.
The front seats are by Recaro and feature electric adjustment and heating. The car has BAC’s own instrument binnacle, crash pad and centre console, as well as VDO 8 dial instrumentation, warning lights, and switches. Adding a touch of class, burl elm was used extensively, whilst power windows, an Alpine stereo system, and remote keyless entry with alarm controls finish off the option list of this beautifully appointed Mini.

Austin Mini BAC M-30 1989

The M-30 was originally fitted with a 1.3-litre supercharged engine, which was relatively recently replaced by a 1,380cc engine built by Ian Hargreaves from Avon Baugh Mini Tuners. Accordingly, a performance clutch, a stainless steel exhaust system, and a suspension system featuring adjustable height and damping, provide the driving experience one would expect of such a sporty looking Mini. 
The overall condition and history of the M-30 suggests that it has been driven more than the 457 kilometres indicated on the odometer and although the body fit is not perfect, the paint finish remains impressive. The interior shows some signs of use and the finish on the burled wood exhibits signs of shrinkage/ageing.
Although BAC originally planned to build 30 examples of the M-30, the £30,000 price tag (six times the price of a basic Mini) deterred customers and only three examples were built. Each M-30 had the production number stamped into the handmade silver badge, and this one reads P2, indicating that it was the second example built. A fantastically rare little beast, this M-30 can swivel heads like any contemporary super car.