At the next Rétromobile in Paris, which will take place from February 6 to 10, 2019, the Mini will receive a great deal of attention. To mark its 60th birthday, the Rétromobile is teaming up with the National Motor Museum of Beaulieu, the Haynes International Motor Museum and Transports Prevost to present a very special exhibition. You can look forward to it.
To the beginnings of the Mini
The Mini was originally conceived and developed by Greek engineer Alec Issigonis, who envisioned a car that would be economical but equally popular. He was inspired by the chassis design presented by French engineer Dechaux in 1947. The chassis was optimized so that the space for passengers would be as large as possible, but the car would be as small as possible.
Several uses in racing
Both the normal Mini and other vehicles that used its technology were successful in racing.
In 1965, the British car brand Marcos produced a series of small plastic sports cars based on the Mini. These cars were streamlined and enjoyed some success. For example, a Mini Marcos finished a proud fifteenth in the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans.
A look back at a legend
The special show will feature 20 different Mini models that reflect the history of the Mini. Among other things, the prototype chassis from Dechaux can be admired.
Many of the models on display have a direct link to the history of the icon, such as the Utility Pickup or the Commercial Van.
