- Origins and Design
- Mini was developed by Alec Issigonis in 1959 to compete with German bubble cars
- Features transverse engine and front-wheel drive layout, saving 80% of floorpan space
- Won Dewar Trophy in 1959 for design and production
- Production and Models
- Produced by BMC, Leyland, Rover Group, and various international manufacturers
- Available as Austin Seven, Morris Mini-Minor, Austin Mini, and various variants
- Mark I production reached 1,190,000 units by 1960s
- Mark II introduced in 1967 with redesigned grille and larger rear window
- Technical Features
- Original rubber suspension system retained until 1971
- Hydrolastic suspension introduced in 1964, later replaced by rubber cones
- Four-speed automatic transmission option available from 1965
- Available with 848cc, 998cc, 1,071cc, and 1,275cc engines
- Market Impact
- Considered iconic of 1960s British popular culture
- Won Monte Carlo Rally three times between 1964-1967
- Popular with film and music stars in 1960s
- Last UK top-selling car in 1981, replaced by Metro
- Decline and Legacy
- Competition from modern supermini models like Ford Fiesta
- Production ended in 2000 with Rover Group acquisition
- Mini became "Classic Mini" to distinguish from modern BMW-influenced models
- Design trademark registered by Rover Group in 1990s