R50 Mini turns 25

We all know (and I think most of us love?) the Mini.  Launched in 1959 it was way ahead of the competition and a world class car from the off.

It had a transverse engine and front wheel drive, leaving the bulk of the car for passengers.  That packaging set the trend for compact front wheel drive cars going forwards.

It was little then, but still could fit four adults (not that comfortably) and even their luggage (if very small).

In 41 years, until 2000, they made 5.38 million of them – a great British success story.

In the 90s, BMW took control of Rover group.  Almost immediately they began to design Mini version 2.  It doesn’t really have an agreed name – The New Mini or Modern Mini?

BMW sold off the remains of Rover – that is defo a story for another day.  But they kept hold of all brand IP around Mini – a wise move in hindsight!

On 26th April 2001 they launched the R50 Mini.

Reviewers loved it, they hailed it a “game-changer” that successfully modernised a classic icon.

It did get some criticism for being huge next to the original, yet small in the back with a tiny boot.  And for being German (despite being made in Oxford).

There was praise for go kart handling, sharp responsive steering as well as nods to the original like the big central speedo.

But was it a commercial success?

Well, let the numbers answer that.  As it turns 25 they have made 4.67 million of them.

If they continue to churn them out at the current daily rate of 800 per day, it should overtake the original in 2.5 years time.

They aren’t UK classics yet at 25 years old, that will take another 15 years, but there are plenty of reasons to buy up good ones and keep hold of them.

The Cooper S and John Cooper Works (JCW) models are the most sought after.

Have a look at this 2005 Cooper S Convertible we refreshed a few years ago.

And as of 2026, the Mini is one of the last few convertibles you can actually buy in the UK.

Thanks,
Neil @ Carrosserie
Tel: 01833 630 011

PS.  Please contact us to chat about your classic – Mini or not.
PPS. For that restoration we managed to track down the last original hood in the dealer network – dedication!