Celebrating 60 Years of the MINI

The 'MINI' is one of the worlds most recognisable, charming and loved cars ever made. Ever since 1959, the iconic shape has been raced, driven and adored by not only car enthusiasts but the world. And at the Victorian Mini Club's All Day Mini Show, we got to admire the biggest little car to rule the roads.

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The original MINI, sold under the 'Austin' and 'Morris' names but built by BMC (British Motor Corporation), was meant to be a fuel efficient, compact automobile that could carry 4 passengers. However, in the 1960's and 70's the car became a cultural icon, and began to be pushed to it's boundaries, morphing into a performance based racer.

In 1961, Alec Issigonis - the designer of the MINI - paired up with Formula 1 designer John Cooper to create a performance spec road car, fit for rallying. This version was known as the MINI 'Cooper', These 'Cooper' variants included a bigger and more powerful engine and performance suspension parts to fit the bill.

In 1968, the BMC's, parent company the BMH (British Motor Holdings) merged with Leyland, forming the British Leyland Motor Corporation. This company then changed its name to Rover. ​

In 1994, BMW bought Rover. However, BMW sold majority of the company in 2000, but retained the rights to continue the production of the MINI.  ​

The year 2000 was the last year the MINI stayed, well, mini. For 41 years, the MINI had barely changed form, staying with it's two door and compact design with the same dimensions. Yet, in 2001, BMW gave the MINI a major facelift, bringing the icon into the 21st century.

The MIINI is now one of the most customisable platforms there are, thanks to the mass amount of OEM and custom parts available. And thanks to its simplicity, you can even go all out, just like this one.

​And of course, you can't forget about the MINI pickups, panel vans and Mokes.

The MINI has never failed to be adored, modified and loved throughout its 60 years by both enthusiasts and the latter. It is one of the most recognisable, and timeless designs, and its success is unmeasured. It may be one of the smallest cars, but is has one of the biggest followings.

Bring on the next 60 years!

Bonus Gallery