Back to back: Mini Marcos or Mini Jem?

The Lancashire based collection of derelict Mini derivatives (click here) continues to surprise. Several of the cars that could be found in the open until recently have made it to the market now, being offered for sale in the Lake District. But the seller has some more up in his sleeve. How about a MiniJem and a Mini Marcos, nicely parked up next to each other?

The Jem is a Mk2 and dates back to 1970. According to the seller it comes with a 998 engine with reconditioned 12G295 head and Nimonic exhaust valves, Powermax pistons, Cooper 'S' 510 camshaft and Jack Knight 2.71 final drive with Metro gear cluster, just to mention some of the engine specs. To further quote from the ad: "It has an interesting owner history and would make a great running restoration, although nothing actually needs doing but a great winter project if you wanted to tidy up interior a little and paintwork." It is priced at £7,600 and you'll find the ad for the MiniJem here

The Mini Marcos is a Mk3 and is said to have covered only a few hundred miles since total body off restoration "including 10 inch Minilite wheels and new tyres, suspension is all done, ball joints, high low shock absorbers with adjustable camber/caster, disc brake conversion, new fuel tank, full interior restoration with new seats, carpets, door seals etc. Superb body off repaint in cherry red. Improved further in the last few weeks and is now excellent in every department. Starts on the button and runs smooth and fast." The asking price of this one is £8,750. See the ad here.

The seller states: "I just can't decide which I should keep. I will keep either the Mini Marcos or the Mini Jem - I will sell the first one that goes and keep the other. I couldn't be without one of them."

Now. Which one would you prefer..?