When it comes to restomods, the majority choose to specialise in one particular subject matter - most likely the Porsche 911 of a certain vintage. But Tolman, it seems, is a broader church. Their specialist subject appears to be the hot hatch. Having broken ground with the Peugeot 205 GTi, before moving onto Fast Fords with an Escort XR3, the Warwickshire-based firm has now turned their attention to the classic Mini.

The end result of a 12-month restoration project, this particular 1968 Austin Mini Cooper S Mk II has undergone a comprehensive overhaul, with some key modifications being added along the way. Rather than turning this Mini into a high-powered super hatch, the tweaks have been made to enhance the original driving experience, while improving everyday usability.

Tolman Mini Cooper S driving rear
Tolman Mini Cooper S engine

The original 1,275cc A-Series engine remains under the bonnet, but fuel injection has been added - something that wasn’t standard on Minis until 1991. A bespoke stainless steel exhaust tastefully enhances the sound, and an electronic engine management system aids cold starts, idling, and oil pressure monitoring. Power rises to 90bhp, and 80lb-ft (108Nm) is available from 3,000-6,000rpm. With a weight of just 685kg, the power-to-weight ratio is an impressive 130bhp per tonne.

The car retains its open differential and four-speed transmission in order to keep the driving experience authentic, but the gearbox has been rebuilt. The suspension has been upgraded with KAD adjustable tie rods and Bilstein dampers to strike a balance between composure and comfort on B-roads. Sticking true to its original specification, the Mini retains the front disc and rear drum brake setup, with new brake lines installed to provide a more consistent feel through the middle pedal.

Tolman Mini Cooper S interior

The interior has been thoughtfully modified, with the seats being reupholstered in leather, a period-style rev counter sitting to the right of the central instrument cluster, heated front and rear screens, LED lighting, and bluetooth integration for the inbuilt stereo. With the odometer showing just under 100,000 miles and the owner wishing to continue driving it daily, the car has received stone chip and rust protection, and a ceramic coating on all painted surfaces.

The brief for this project was to create a Mini to enjoy in daily use with all the charms of the original, but fewer of the pitfalls of a 56-year old car. The engine, chassis and cabin upgrades enhance the car’s capabilities, while the unchanged colour scheme, exterior chrome trim, and hand-painted badges keep the original spirit alive.

There is no word on the price of the conversion, due to the Mini being a bespoke commission, but Tolman are rapidly establishing themselves as the resto-hatch kings. For 2025, they have confirmed four Peugeot 205 GTis, and two one-off creations based on 1980s icons, and we can’t wait to see how their restoration philosophy is applied to these.

Tolman Mini Cooper S restoration
Tolman Mini Cooper S badge