Mini Cooper

The Mini Cooper actually made its debut in 1961, and until its ultimate demise in the year 2000, it was Britain’s best-selling production car of all time. Economical, compact and stylish, these cars were rebranded in 2001 as the New MINI, keeping the “Cooper” moniker attached to some models. BMW now owns the brand name and oversees production of the vehicles.

Today’s range of Mini Cooper variations

Mini Coopers are available in a wide range of models with varying specifications, including:

• The Mk I Hatchback
• The Mk I Convertible
• The Works GP
• Clubman estate vans

Today, the line features a lightweight design and an engine that delivers quite a bit of turbo pop, considering the diminutive size of the car. In 2008, BMW added its unique EfficientDynamics technology to the brand, which allows for staggering fuel efficiency in the neighborhood of 60 to 74 mpg. Newer models also have turbocharged engines and feature gasoline direct injection to achieve even better fuel economy.

Dealers saw demand for this vehicle spike after it was named the 2003 North American Car of the Year at Detroit’s North American International Auto Show. It is particularly popular in dense urban environments, where its compact size and excellent fuel efficiency make it easy to park, cheap to drive and ideal for short commutes.