This Tesla-powered Mini could be yours in Modern Classic Cars Foundation’s charity raffle

The team of classic car restoration and restomod specialists at Modern Classic Cars Foundation has just completed its first EV conversion on an Aussie-built 1971 Morris Mini – and if you’re brave enough to take the electric plunge, there’s a chance it could be yours for as little as $100.

That’s because the Foundation is raffling this car off to support its apprenticeship training program, training the next generation of classic car specialists at its Sydney HQ.

Powered by the electric motor from a Tesla Model 3, the electric conversion kit was supplied by Welsh EV conversion specialists Electric Classic Cars.

Boasting a monstrous 220kW (295hp) and 400Nm, delivering a comparable power-to-weight ratio to a modern Porsche 911, that power is channelled to the front wheels through a Quaife ATB limited slip differential.

Featuring a 32kWh battery pack with 7kW charging (4-5 hours for a full charge from flat), there’s a claimed 225km of range.

1971 Morris Mini with EV conversion
Powered by the electric motor from a Tesla Model 3, this 1971 Mini now boasts 220kW, giving it a comparable power-to-weight ratio to a modern Porsche 911 (Image: Modern Classic Cars Foundation)

Like its other recent restomod builds, this Mini has also been treated to some updated touches. The upgraded front disc and rear drum brakes are taken from a ’90s model, it rides on authentic Minilite wheels, and the interior combines Nappa leather with blue tartan upholstery from a Volkswagen Golf GTI and a Mota-lita steering wheel. All told, the build is valued at $220,000.

If you’re game enough to try an electric take on classic motoring, entry tickets for the raffle cost $100 each, with entries closing on January 11, 2026. Ticket sales are open to residents of New South Wales, Queensland (limited to 500 tickets), and Victoria.

You can purchase tickets via RaffleLink. Further information is available on the Modern Classic Cars Foundation website.

All funds will support the Modern Classic Cars Foundation’s apprenticeship program. As a registered charity, MCCF provides cost-free, supportive apprenticeships across trades such as Motor Mechanics, Auto Electric, Paint/Panel, Trimming and Engine Machining. Each apprentice receives a tool kit, PPE, uniforms, above award wages, education, and one-on-one mentorship ensuring success for both young tradespeople and their future employers.

Deputy Editor

Patrick is an automotive journalist with nearly a decade’s experience across a range of online, print, and broadcast media titles, having road tested over 500 new and classic cars in that time.

After starting out with The Adelaide Hills Weekender Herald newspaper while still studying, he has since contributed to the likes of DriveTribe, Finder, Supercar Blondie, Exhaust Notes Australia, and WhichCar before joining the Retro Rides team. He also launched the car review website Drive Section in 2019 and automotive adventure site Essential Drives in 2024, and has experience in journalism education and academia.

At Retro Rides, Patrick oversees website publishing and content creation. If you have a story you think would be of interest to our audience, he’s your best point of contact at [email protected].

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