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Mini
In 1961 came Mini Cooper developed John Cooper. The twin carbed 997cc car managed 113km/h. Front discs, improved gearshift with close ratio gear box and better interior trim with revised instrumentation. Wide wheels coupled with braced tread tires. It lasted in this form until 1969, but the engine got an upgrade to 998cc for 1964.
Next came the Mini Cooper S, a 1071cc in 63. In 64 the engine was revised to a 970cc with optional 1275cc power. This revised engine had a 9.75:1 compersion ratio and twin SU carbs to produce 75BHP. This engine lasted until 67, capable of 161km/h, winning the Monte Carlo in 64, 65 and 67.
The garden variety Mini's gained Hydrolastic suspension in 1964, courtesy of it's 1100 derivative. 1965 cars gained an optional auto transmission, using fluid torque converter and an ingenious four speed gear system, making it first car in it's class with a four speed auto. The Mark II was released in 1968, typified by a larger rear window and new grille.
When BMC was absorbed by British Leyland in the same year, the Cooper was discontinued in 69 with the Cooper S suffering a simular fate in 1971. The Cooper was replaced by a larger capactity 1275GT in 69 and gained(?) the square 'clubman' nose with higher bumpers was said to ward off damage better. New winding windows replaced the original sliding items and interior ventilation was improved. The Clubman was powered by a 1098cc engine and was built in this configuration from 1976-1982.
For the 1970 model year, the original Mini gained optional 848 or 998cc power, and simultaneously lost the Hydrolastic syspension, reverting back to the original rubber system, and all marque names were dropped to be known solely by the Mini badge.
After many mergers and name changes, as well as competition from the companies own Austin Metro, the standard model remains in demand, currently wearing a Rover badge. In 1990, the Cooper was revived, using a 1275cc engine capable of an emmisions compliant 148km/h. In 93 a cabrio version was launched. In 1994, 30 years after it's first Monte Carlo Victory, the Mini made an apperance in the event, driven by the Timo Makinen/Paul Easter pairing of the 60's. Like the Beetle, a completely new Mini is slated for launch in 2000.