MINI TURNS 66 – A GLOBAL ICON THAT REDEFINED THE COMPACT CAR SEGMENT.
On 26 August 1959, the British Motor Corporation pulled the covers off something no one could have predicted would shake the automotive world to its core: the Mini. The vision of brilliant engineer Alec Issigonis, this tiny car rewrote the rulebook with its transverse engine and space-saving design. Compact, clever, and charismatic, the Mini was a cultural revolution on wheels. Fast forward 66 years, and MINI (the modern reincarnation under BMW) is celebrating a legacy of racing victories, design firsts, and a go-kart driving feel that never lost its spark. From the streets of Swinging London in the ’60s to the silver screen in The Italian Job (1969, with Sir Michael Caine’s cheeky getaway cars) and its Hollywood reboot in 2003, the Mini has been as much a star as the actors behind the wheel. Add countless music videos, fashion shoots, and even a Mr. Bean cameo, and you’ve got a car that’s less about getting from A to B and more about making an entrance.
Today’s MINI family is all about blending that heritage with the future. The latest MINI Cooper, MINI Countryman, and the all-new MINI Aceman crossover carry the brand forward with electrified powertrains, smart tech, and design that balances nostalgia with fresh charisma. The new MINI Convertible keeps the wind-in-your-hair fun alive, while John Cooper Works models continue to prove MINI’s motorsport DNA is more than just history — it’s happening. In fact, MINI recently stormed the Nürburgring 24 Hours, scoring a class second place that shows the racing spirit of the brand is alive and kicking.
And yes, that legendary “go-kart feeling”? It’s still there - now available in a fully electric guise.
Highlights From 66 Years of MINI Magic
1959 – Alec Issigonis’ Mini is born, redefining compact car design forever.
1964–67 – Rally legend: three Monte Carlo Rally wins with the Mini Cooper S.
1969 – Mini hits global pop culture fame in The Italian Job.
1980s – Everyone from The Beatles to Mr. Bean makes the Mini part of their story.
1994 – BMW acquires Mini, securing its future as a global premium brand.
2001 – The modern MINI era begins, built at the historic Oxford plant.
2020 – MINI goes electric with the Cooper SE.
2023–25 – A bold new generation arrives: Cooper, Countryman, Aceman, Convertible, and John Cooper Works all rolling into the future, many fully electric.
Through 66 years, more than just engineering and racing wins have made MINI iconic. It’s the way the car turned heads, broke rules, and stayed fun. From dodging traffic jams in crowded cities to starring in unforgettable chase scenes, the MINI has always been more than transport - it’s been a partner in mischief, style, and freedom. Now, as MINI charges into an electrified future, it continues to prove that small can be mighty, and driving can always be fun.
Happy 66th, MINI. Here’s to the next getaway.
Take a look at the YouTube video that gives us a look at the evolution of one of the most lovable little cars to ever grace the planet - the Mini. Why? Because the nameplate turns 66!: Mini Evolution (1959-2024) | Database 2.0
Be sure to check out our YouTube channel here for more exciting and exclusive SXdrv content! And don't forget to smash that subscribe button!