This is a serious issue. You won't have enough points to keep the Mini's registration but you might have enough to keep the Celica's registration otherwise you'll be looking at a Q plate. After that it would probably be subject to the IVA test (which it should pass with flying colours with the quality of your work).
Suppose the team fiddled the original engine / gearbox unit back into place. Get it registered as a 'restoration' passably original, and once it's all back on the road, simply put the 'Binky' engine into it as a change of engine on a running registered car.
If I'm reading this correctly I don't see how they can end up with anything but a Q-plate
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"Keep the original registration number
Your vehicle must have 8 or more points from the table below if you want to keep the original registration number. 5 of these points must come from having the original or new and unmodified chassis, monocoque bodyshell or frame."
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If my math is good, the Mini scores a 0.
The monocoque is significantly altered, suspension, axles, transmission, steering assembly, and engine are either modified or not original.
The Celica scores a 3.
2 for the trans and 1 for the engine.
What is the downside to having a Q-plate? Are there any restrictions on use? Is insurance more costly or harder to get?
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I am not a control FREAK, I am a control ENTHUSIAST!
I'm just guessing (I live in the USA) but I think they will need both. An IVA to certify the vehicle is roadworthy and a Q-plate for the tag/registration. But I may be wrong, been wrong before, will be again!
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I am not a control FREAK, I am a control ENTHUSIAST!
Just say you bought it off someone down the pub who said it was all standard but had bought the wrong off-set wheels!
Quite fast? - "yes mate! it's got a K&N filter in!"
...He also said a 911 engine will bolt straight into a Beetle!
@GrayRaceCat You can also include the suspension/axles in the points tally. I'm not sure if it would be enough so it will probably a Q-plate. Somehow, I think Nik & Rich have more pressing issues than getting it registered for the road...
It's an interesting discussion and one we have grappled with and continue to grapple with. Having said that, we've got one or two tricks up our sleeve that you'll just have to wait to see!