Mini Classic Mini: Hire Guide

Specifications

1959–2000

Years produced

1959–2000

Engine

Transverse 0.85 / 1.0 / 1.1 / 1.3 L BMC A-Series I4

Cooper / Cooper S

Tuned 970–1275 cc, twin SU carbs, more power and disc front brakes

Drivetrain

Front engine, front-wheel drive, 4-speed manual (gearbox in sump)

Length

3.05 m (≈ 10 ft)

History

Designed by Sir Alec Issigonis at BMC and launched in 1959 in response to the Suez fuel crisis. The transverse engine and gearbox-in-sump layout freed up cabin space and became the template for almost every small front-wheel-drive car since. Cooper variants from 1961 added performance credibility, culminating in three outright Monte Carlo Rally wins (1964, 1965, 1967).

What it's like to drive

Direct steering, tiny dimensions, and a cabin where the wheel is almost in your lap. The 1275 Cooper S is genuinely quick along a B-road; smaller engines are happy enough in town. Heavy in the city without power steering, and very noisy on the motorway.

Cultural appearances

• Won the Monte Carlo Rally outright in 1964, 1965, and 1967 with John Cooper–prepared cars.
• Driven by Mr Bean (Rowan Atkinson) in the BBC series.
• Central to the heist plot of The Italian Job (1969 and 2003).

What occasions it suits

• City weddings (especially London, Rome, Paris)
• Photo shoots and music videos
• Birthday driving days
• Promotional or branded fleet hire