In a world where bigger is often better, it's nice to see the classic Mini continue to thrive. There's a new limited-run restomod available, a collaboration between Callum design, from famed designer Ian Callum, and the firm behind the Margrave Mini from the 1960s, Wood and Pickett. And the very first example looks excellent.
The car is based on the Mk5 Sportspack Mini, but features several unique visual touches, such as the completely reimagined lighting housings. It also has a redesigned rear end, unique valances, and bolder wheel arches, which improve the car's aerodynamics and cooling capabilities. It rides on 13-inch Callum-designed alloy wheels with 8.4-inch vented and grooved brake discs.
Powering the car is a "newly rebuilt" 1.3-liter "Stage 3 road/rally engine" good for 100 horsepower, with a retuned ECU and a "reengineered" transmission. The engine features twin-point injection and a "new performance cylinder head," while an upswept twin-exit exhaust system pokes out the back. Keeping things comfortable is a "road-tuned suspension kit."
Inside, the Mini has a new dashboard that takes inspiration from Wood and Picket's Margrave Minis. It includes a row of analog dials, a small screen with Apple CarPlay, and a row of physical switches for the lights, hazards, and other vehicle functions.
Each Mini is hand-built and costs £75,000 to start (around $103,000 at today's exchange rate), with no two builds alike. Customers will be able to work closely with the Callum design team to personalize their Mini.
Source: Callum Design
