The poor 1275 GT was launched along with
the Clubman to replace the irreplaceable; the Mini Cooper and Mini Cooper S.
Mini Cooper production ended along with the MK 2 Minis as a measure by
British Leyland (BL) to cut production costs. Therefore the Clubman was not
seen in a good perspective by the many Mini enthusiasts around the world. It
received the standard 1275cc engine from BL's production line producing a
mere 59 BHP, but with a close ratio gearbox. Performance went down in
respect to the Cooper, but in its favour, it was also cheaper. The 1275 GT
differed from the standard Clubman in that it had an extra instrument dial;
a rev counter. Fron disc brakes from the Mini Cooper S were also fitted as
standard. It also had a red GT badge on the front grille, new Clubman 1275
GT rear badge, a stripe just above the sill line with Mini 1275 GT decals,
front disc brakes and Rostyle steel wheels.
In 1974, the Clubman was the first Mini to
be equipped with 12" wheels from the factory along with larger (8.4")
unservoed disk brakes. In general, the Mini 1275 GT shared the same changes
as the standard Clubman with a few differences.
Other History Facts:
1970:
Final-drive ratio changed from 3.65 to
3.44:1.
1974:
Tempreature-controlled air intake
system now fitted(power output now 54 BHP)..
Larger non-servoed front disc brakes
fitted with larger 12in wheels.