BMC's Austin Mark I Mini

Classic cars are one of the top collector's items that are of generally high in value. A lot of people who have the financial means to afford the high price tags of these cars choose to collect them. Among these collectors,there are some enthusiasts who actually prefer using classic cars as their main mode of transport. A lot of individuals modify classic cars for it to have the modern security and features that today's cars possess, while maintaining their classic look. One of the popular classic cars that have ruled the automotive market is BMC's Austin Mark I Mini.

The Mark I Mini is the first ever production car of BMC or British Motor Corporations brand, Mini. It is marked and known by its sliding windows, its mustache grill, and external door hinges. It was first introduced in the United Kingdom in 1959 and has been produced until 1967, except in Australia where production ended in the 1970s.

Its design has been coined as the project ADO15, ADO being Austin Design Office. The first models of the Mark I Mini have been branded with the names Austin SE7EN and Morris Mini-Minor. It has been originally designed as a fuel efficient, affordable small car that can fit in small space garages. Come the 1960s, known celebrities have fancied having at least one of these Minis because of its undeniably elegant appeal.

The Mini's engine is mounted in a front sub-frame while the carburetor is mounted at the back of the engine. This is in deviation with the original prototype called The Orange Box. It has a 848 cc engine which is capable of hitting 72 mph, a manageable speed during that time. It also features Issigonis rubber cone springs for suspension. This allowed the suspension to adapt well with the varying passenger loads.

In spite of its small body, it could seat up to four passengers. This was possible because of the clever placement of the engine in the front part of the car. The car is drove through a gearbox which was distinctively connected to the engines sump. This unique engine-gearbox design has been made to respond to the fear of oil shortage since the design allowed that the engine and gearbox to share the same oil usage.

Indeed, the Austin Mark I Mini should not be taken lightly. Within this very small car lies a clever design that is incomparable with other classic cars. Thus, if you are looking to collect classic cars, you might just want to start by getting one of the classic Austin Mark I Mini.


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