The Mini’s design by Alec Issigonis was revolutionary and set a trend for the small car market. After playing a part in British culture for 41 years, this car is the last ‘classic’ Mini produced.

The Mini became an image of Britain’s ‘swinging ’sixties’ and is an international icon of style and design. It has been a successful racing car and film star too and many a driver can regale stories of their motoring experiences with a Mini.

After being acquired by BMW in 1994, the Mini was subject to a redesign project that culminated in the new MINI, first revealed in 1997. This car on display is the very last car of the older, ‘classic’ style to be manufactured, rolling off the line at the Longbridge factory on 4th October 2000. It is one of 500 special edition models built to celebrate the final batch of Mini production.

More than 5.5 million Minis had been built up to that point, selling to every part of the world. In a final flourish, pop star Lulu drove the car off the production line, in front of workers and press. It was then presented to the Museum on the 6th December by the Deputy Chairman of MG Rover. It is a fitting complement to the first Mini-Minor, which is also in the Museum’s collection.