1996 Rover Mini 1.3 Kensington
Japanese Import • Automatic • Texas Title • Exceptional, Tastefully Appointed Example
 
We are proud to present one of the finest classic Minis we have recently encountered — a beautifully preserved 1996 Rover Mini 1.3 Kensington, finished in striking Flame Red (official Rover color) over original tan leather with elegant wood interior appointments.
 
From the many Minis that have passed through our collection, this example stands out as one of the most complete, visually compelling, and well-presented cars currently available.
 
Exterior – Flame Red with Sporting Character
 
Finished in Flame Red, the paint exhibits impressive gloss and depth, accentuating the Mini’s iconic proportions and unmistakable stance.
 
Exterior highlights include:
 
Black alloy wheels providing a purposeful and modern contrast
Chrome grille and brightwork in excellent condition
LED headlight conversion for enhanced visibility and usability
Factory-style wheel arch flares
Sport Delta-style side mirrors
Aluminum side window sun visors (rain/sun blockers) for added functionality and a subtle JDM-inspired touch
 
The combination of Flame Red paint, black wheels, chrome detailing, and tasteful custom additions creates a Mini that feels both classic and uniquely personalized.
 
Interior – Original Tan Leather, Wood & British Heritage Touches
The Kensington trim is known for its refinement, and this example showcases it beautifully.
 
Original tan leather seats in excellent condition
Matching tan door panels with chrome pulls
Genuine wood dashboard fascia with rich grain and excellent finish
Wood door capping
Wood-trimmed automatic shift knob
Classic center-mounted instrumentation framed in wood
Carrozzeria audio system
 
The wood veneer presents with depth and warmth, perfectly complementing the tan leather upholstery. The red-over-tan color combination, enhanced by the wood trim, is one of the most desirable and elegant specifications offered on late Rover Minis.
 
Adding character and British flair is a custom central rearview mirror finished in the Union Jack design, a tasteful nod to the Mini’s heritage.
 
The interior remains remarkably well preserved, with supple leather and clean trim throughout — a true reflection of careful ownership.
 
Engine & Automatic Transmission
 
Under the bonnet sits Rover’s legendary 1275cc (1.3L) inline-four engine, producing approximately:
 
63 horsepower @ 5,700 rpm
70 lb-ft of torque @ 3,000 rpm
 
Power is delivered through a 4-speed automatic transmission, a rarer and highly desirable configuration that makes this Mini exceptionally enjoyable and accessible in modern driving conditions.
 
The automatic gearbox shifts smoothly and complements the lively, lightweight nature of the platform perfectly — delivering charm, character, and ease of use in equal measure.
 
Provenance & Condition
 
Japanese-market import (known for careful preservation standards)
Fully registered with a Texas title
Recently serviced and inspected
Starts easily, runs smoothly, shifts properly
Strong cosmetic and mechanical presentation
 
The vehicle presents as a well-maintained and thoughtfully cared-for example, both visually and mechanically.
 
Heritage & Collectibility
 
The classic Mini remains one of the most influential automotive designs ever produced. Late-production Rover examples such as the Kensington represent the final, most refined chapter of this historic platform.
 
This particular example offers:
 
Flame Red exterior
Original tan leather interior
Beautiful wood interior trim
Automatic transmission
Black alloy wheels
Sport Delta mirrors
Aluminum side sun visors
Union Jack rearview mirror
LED headlight upgrade
Japanese provenance with Texas title
 
From all the Minis we had the chance to represent, this stands as one of the strongest and most complete examples to date — and very possibly one of the better ones currently available nationwide.
 
For the collector or enthusiast seeking a visually striking, turnkey classic with tasteful custom touches and authentic British character, this Rover Mini Kensington deserves serious consideration.
 
The Paddock Collection is a boutique dealership and showroom in the heart of Dallas.
 
Founded by the passion of automobiles, we are dedicated to building relationships with each one of our clients, and treat their automotive needs as we would our own.
 
Our address is 3909 Main St. Dallas, TX, 75226. Please give us a call at 972 895-4230, or e-mail us at office@thepaddockcollectiondallas.com
 
We welcome trade-ins. Click here to get in contact!