Mini Cooper

A Brief Overview Of The History Of A Mini Classic Cars Part 2

Demand for the Mini was increasing, not only from the production line but from used Mini dealerships as well. As different Marks of the Mini were introduced, each model evolved, with the Clubman having a longer nose and differing front end to the original Mini design. Between 1959 and 2000 when production of the Mini was brought to a close, the shape of the Mini did not change much at all, in fact the shape of the Mini was registered as a trademark, which is almost unheard of in the car industry.



The curtain was drawn on the production of the Mini in 2000 as Rover, now the manufacturer of the Mini following on Austin and Morris, were making huge losses and were forced into a buyout by German car giants, BMW. The Mini was to be no more, at least not as we knew it. BMW dragged the Mini into the 21st century, completely redesigning the car, yet keeping its redeeming features. The MINI (all in caps to distinguish it from the original Mini) divided opinion between fans of the original, yet gained rave reviews from those in the know.




Many Mini enthusiasts felt bitter towards BMW for not continuing production of the Mini in favour of the more expensive MINI, whereas others were among the first to buy the new MINI. The much larger MINI was criticised by purists for literally not being mini anymore also, yet none of the negative criticisms have affected sales.


The MINI has sold more than one million units since 2000 and remains one of the few cars that actually retain its value in the ever depreciating world of car sales. Used Mini dealerships are one of the few who have not been badly affected by the credit crunch and have not had to slash prices to keep afloat - a fine example of just how popular the Mini has remained.


Original Minis remain sought after and some of the rarer models are valuable collectors' items. Minis remain one of the most popular renovation projects for retired car enthusiasts also, as they hark back to the swinging sixties, trying to recapture their youth. Love 'em or loathe'em the BMW MINI is likely to remain a popular car for years to come, as the Mini remains a car close to the hearts of British industry.