Mini Rat: old Mini Cooper converted into a V8 Rat-Rod!

Recently updated on January 25, 2021 at 10:34 am

What to do? Buy something new and maybe boring, or just build something unique yourself? Michael Rebolo didn't have to ask himself this question twice. He's a long-time fan of American TV shows like Fast N Loud and Overhaulin, so it was only a matter of time before Mike started his own project. Based on the legendary old Mini Cooper. And the result is a vehicle that looks relatively simple at first, but has actually devoured countless hours of work. The basis is an old mini body that was imported to South Africa at some point and was only bought by Mike in a makeshift way with a repaired front in particularly poor condition. But since he intended to do without a front from the start, that didn't really matter. And the original engine was also missing. But that didn't matter either.

327ci Chevy V8 and 350 turbo transmission

A 327ci Chevy V8 with a 350 turbo transmission now serves as the drive train. It was equipped with a Holley carburetor and chrome-plated valve covers and by the way there was also a completely new and particularly deep chassis for the mini body and the V8. Namely from the Street Rod Factory in Pretoria, which has been making hot rods for over 30 years. This was the roof chopped and extended at the same time. The sunroof that existed up to then has now been removed and replaced by a full metal roof with a roof visor (hang-over visor / Sonnenschute) replaced. And the body finish for the rat was created in a multi-stage process, which is not yet completely finished and is still waiting for a clear coat. The bare metal was primed and then painted black, brown and finally silver. This was followed by a lot of sanding work to get the current finish. On the other hand, all chrome elements, the discs and the rubbers were completely refreshed and there were also steel rims with whitewall tires from a truck. In addition, there were nasty spiked wheel nuts.

Jaguar chassis with Airride and crazy cabin

The wheels hang on a Jaguar chassis that can be opened and lowered at the push of a button by means of a manually controlled Airride and an air tank (by drag rod) with a compressor installed in the rear of the mini. Incidentally, the V8 is acoustically noticeable by means of the sidepipe sports exhaust system and there were also an insane number of changes in the cabin. The inside of the Mini is just as cool as the outside. There are a number of highlights here such as a specially made wooden dashboard, a crazy chain steering wheel and a very special gear lever. In addition, classic round instruments, a black leather interior and many other self-made components. If we get more information about the changes, there is of course an update for this report. You will be informed of this if you simply use ours Feed subscribe to. Have fun watching the pictures and stay true to us!

https://youtu.be/WCVQbeJdxvQ

Photos: speedhunters.com /  stefankotzephoto

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Mini rat - old Mini Cooper converted into a rat rod!

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