Happy Birthday, MINI. Sixty-six years ago, on 26 August 1959, the very first Mini was revealed by the British Motor Corporation, a creation of visionary engineer Alec Issigonis. Compact yet revolutionary, it transformed motoring with clever design and unmatched character. From that moment, the Mini became more than a car – it became a cultural icon.

Decades on, MINI has mastered the art of balancing heritage with modernity. The latest MINI Cooper and MINI Countryman stand as proof, joined by the bold new MINI Aceman and the open-air MINI Convertible. Each model carries the unmistakable MINI DNA – compact proportions, agile handling, and design that always makes a statement – while embracing the future with fully electric options.
The racing edge remains sharp. The John Cooper Works line continues to embody MINI’s motorsport legacy, with Bulldog Racing delivering podium finishes at the gruelling Nürburgring 24 Hours. The spirit that once claimed Monte Carlo glory with the Mini Cooper S still drives MINI forward today.
The milestones tell the story of a brand that never stood still. From its dominance in the 1960s rally scene, through the rebirth under BMW in 2001, to the Oxford-built electric MINI Cooper SE, the journey reflects bold reinvention at every turn. What began as a clever solution to compact mobility has evolved into a family of cars celebrated across the globe.
Now, with 66 years of history behind it, MINI looks firmly ahead. Electric mobility, expressive design, and a racing soul ensure that the brand’s story remains as vibrant as ever. MINI continues to prove that individuality, style, and pure driving fun can thrive in every era – past, present, and future.