In Detail (Herridge & Sons)
1 total work
All car enthusiasts would agree that producing a sporting version of the Mini was a very good idea. Such a good idea, in fact, that the Mini Cooper enjoyed enormous popularity, was almost unbeatable in race and rally, and provided the inspiration for the whole breed of 'hot hatches' that flourished from the 1970s on. When the Mini was launched in 1959 both press and public soon realized that the little car could be flung about with abandon. It had handling and roadhugging qualities far beyond the performance that its lowly 34bhp engine could provide, and sporting drivers cried out for more power. When the 997cc MkI Cooper arrived in 1961 their prayers were answered, and with the introduction of the 1275cc 'S' model their cup ran over. The history of the cars in competition is studied, and there is advice on the practicalities of owning any MkI to MkIII model today. Seven outstanding cars have been photographed specially for this book and are featured in some 100 color shots. There are also more than 150 black-and-white photographs from archive sources.