MINI Diecast Model Cars

Small but Mighty Fast

Britain's most popular car made a giant and successful leap across the pond in the year 2000, appearing as the BMW MINI (all caps) and becoming an instant favorite among a certain American motoring mindset. Before that, the Mini, produced by the British Motor Corporation (BMC) turned car design in Great Britain topsy-turvey with new concepts.

The Mini was originally produced out of scarcity. The Suez crisis of 1956 brought fuel rationing to England and car sales fell dramatically except for the sale of small "Bubble" cars made in Germany. BMC couldn't let a German maker purloin its territory and the company developed the iconic Mini which rolled off the assembly line in 1959.

It was different inside and out. The floor p ...more

Small but Mighty Fast

Britain's most popular car made a giant and successful leap across the pond in the year 2000, appearing as the BMW MINI (all caps) and becoming an instant favorite among a certain American motoring mindset. Before that, the Mini, produced by the British Motor Corporation (BMC) turned car design in Great Britain topsy-turvey with new concepts.

The Mini was originally produced out of scarcity. The Suez crisis of 1956 brought fuel rationing to England and car sales fell dramatically except for the sale of small "Bubble" cars made in Germany. BMC couldn't let a German maker purloin its territory and the company developed the iconic Mini which rolled off the assembly line in 1959.

It was different inside and out. The floor plan was opened up and designed for passengers, parcels and luggage. The front-wheel drive added to this spaciousness. BMC used its 4-cylinder water-cooled engine but mounted it transversely, again saving space. Even the suspension system made the interior more-roomy by using compact rubber cones rather than springs.

The original model gave way to other styles such as the Wolseley Hornet and Riley Elf, both intended for a more upscale market wanting some Mini-luxury. The Morris Mini Pick up and Mini Van followed (bearing little resemblance to American minivans). An entire class of Minis was dedicated to races and rallies which they frequently won! These no-longer produced models are prized by die cast car collectors.

Even with the success of the models, changes were due in the British car market. Rover was in trouble and BMW stepped in to buy some of the assets. While selling Rover and MG to a British group and Land Rover to Ford, BMW retained the charming Mini. The company introduced the new, larger MINI to America where it attracts a loyal and enthusiastic following. Last year, the one millionth BMW MINI rolled off the assembly line in Oxford, England. ...less