Mini goes vintage

There are plenty of things which improve with modernisation: medicine, construction, efficiencies and, of course, automotive technologies.

But there are some changes that leave us craving a time-machine and wishing we could travel back to the time of black-and-white movies, driving gloves and Elvis.

For many Mini enthusiasts, BMW’s modern-version of the Mini is missing that classic sweet-spot.

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That’s why the UK’s David Brown Automotive has created 100 models of the Mini Remastered – a handcrafted version of the original Mini with a modern twist.

As the David Brown Automotive’s brochure on the car states: “Our story is simple. Embrace the DNA of a design classic, then skilfully and respectfully remaster it to meet the demands of modern day life.”

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The MINI Remastered is hand built, offers a bespoke chassis, body and interior, and, according to UK motoring site Auto Express, takes more than 1000 hours to produce.

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It is the same size as the classic Mini with each panel built to mirror it and looks like it’s straight out the original Italian Job, albeit with a discrete modern touches including a 7-inch touchscreen and infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, remote central locking and keyless stop/start.

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Clients can have unique customisation to the exterior and interior of the Mini Remastered, with a number of colour, trim, feature and accessory combinations.

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A choice of 13 body colours is available, and black or white can be selected for the roof. Other options include seven wheel designs, leather-upholstery tones and eight trim colours, including black or white.

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Adding to its modernisation is an aluminium grille, LED headlights and Mini’s signature puddle lights.

Under the bonnet, the original Mini’s classic 1275cc engine has been remastered to produce a claimed 50 percent more power. This is mated to a four-speed gearbox.

The bespoke beauty can be purchased from £50,000 ($82,842) or £70,000 ($115,922) for the top-spec models), if you live in the UK. For us Aussies, we’ll just have to admire it in pictures.

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