The Raging Bull Nose

The original Mini is the celebrated hero of the working class. We jumped behind the wheel of a Cooper S to celebrate its global impact

- Nikesh Kooverjee

Engine: 1,3-litre, 4-cyl, petrol Transmission: 4-speed manual Power: 76 kW Torque: 80 N.m 0-100 km/h: 12,1 sec Top speed: 153 km/h Weight: 700 kg Fuel consumption: 6,2 L/100 km Value: ±R350 000

Over its 41-year lifecycle, the original Mini was a Jack of all trades: an everyday car of the people, star of the silver screen and champion on the racetrack. Where the latter is concerned, its most notable achievement is its victory at the 1964 Monte Carlo Rally. This 52 kW tyke shocked the motorsport world when it dominated giants such as the Ford Falcon and Mercedes-Benz 300 SE with its light weight and nippy chassis. On that day, the Mini achieved icon status.

In order to get the Cooper S homologated for track use, a road-going model had to be built. The original sported 970 cm3 and 1 071 cm3 engines. In 1966, the rally team switched to a 1 275 cm3 unit and the result was similar to the model we’re driving here. Dressed in Almond Green and currently owned by Graham Webb, this Cooper S was proudly built in Mzansi by Leyland South Africa. Over the years, it received an extensive restoration and has been owned by a number of people who’ve obviously lavished it with care and attention.