Mini is an iconic brand that most people on the street nowadays can recognize. No matter whether you’ve owned a mini before or not, you know them for their compact style and quirky designs. Keep reading to learn more about the history of the company, their values, and what models they have available.
How the Company Got Started
Born out of a tragedy, the Mini car brand became known for its ability to produce compact cars that were drivable for the average, everyday person. The Suez Crisis of 1956 led to the decrease in the use of large utility-based vehicles and a desire for people to use a more fuel-efficient model. The first Mini car was released in 1959 in England, screaming British style and class. It was designed by Mini Engineer Alec Issigonis and commissioned by Sir Leonard Lord (head of the Morris Company).
The Mini model was known for its ability to bring people from all backgrounds together in a time of immense change. There seemed to be no limit to what Mini could do. It became “the very essence of youthful 1960s culture.”
A female racer, Pat Moss, brought the Mini model to the forefront of the racing scene. She was the first race car drivers to win a race, the Netherlands Tulip Rally, in 1962. The small cars also became famous from winning the Monte Carlo Rally from 1964 to 1967.
By the end of 1969, 2 million Minis had been sold across the world. In 1977, the company surpassed 4 million. Since then, the company has continued to expand and grow. It has plans to become a partially electric company in the future, as well as to continue expanding their line of models.
The Logo
T
he Mini logo has only experienced minor changes in its 60+ year history. For the first decade of its existence, the logo featured the name of the company – which did change over the ten years – and four elongated bars stacked on top of each other. These bars look like wings, and would later become part of the iconic logo that the general population knows and recognizes today. In 1969, the company made a drastic shift in their logo, rebranding the colors to black, white, silver, and blue. They also created a more boxy look in lieu of the winged silhouette that had become so popular. When the company was acquired by BMW in the early 2000s, they returned to their most famous logo. Although it has been altered in the 20 years since its return, it still features the name of the company in a bold font and the wings protruding from each side.
Sales
Since Mini was introduced to the American Market around 20 years ago, they have seen immense success and popularity with their vehicles. Although sales may not quite be where the company had hoped, they have consistently sold between 40,000 and 65,000 models per year according to statistics from CarSalesBase. The chart below depicts their sales since 2002. Since then, the company has sold just over 900,000 cars. They have experienced consistent growth in sales numbers since they were introduced to the market, with a slight decrease in 2020 due to the pandemic. However, they recouped their losses in 2021 with an increase in both sales and growth percentage.
Compared to other small car brands, they have seen some of the largest success and sales across the globe.
Many Different Models
Mini has a unique selection of over vehicles available for purchase. Here’s a list of the ones currently available:
Model | Avg Asking Price | Picture | Description |
Used: $18,590 New: $23,400 |  | The new, updated Mini Hardtop 2 Door is fresh on the market with a ton of great features. It is available in three new colors: Soul Blue, Alpine White, and Chili Red. It also features a new dashboard design, air vents, and steering wheel. | |
Used: $17,995 New: $24,400 |  | The Mini Hardtop 4 Door is also newly updated like its 2-door counterpart. It comes in the same color schemes and features updated safety features like the Active Driving Assistant. It also has an updated exterior and interior. | |
Used: $13,990 New: $29,600 |  | The Mini countryman is an excellent option for those looking to get a well-rounded vehicle. This model can be purchased with an all-wheel drive option. It also features more cargo space than other models, a freshly designed exterior and interior, and updated safety features. | |
Used: $12,590 New: $29,900 |  | The Clubman is one of Mini’s premier vehicles. It is known as the most “sophisticated sports hatchback [Mini has] ever made.” It features two small rear doors that open up to each side, all wheel drive, and can be completely customized. | |
Used: $22,990 New: $28,400 |  | This version of the Mini 2 Door features a soft convertible top that is perfect for cruising down the highway in sunny weather. It has all the same features as the Mini 2 Door, making it a great addition for those looking for something a little sportier. |
Most Popular Model
According to statistics from CarSalesBase, the Mini Cooper Hardtop 2-Door was the most popular model for 2021 in the United States. It is known as the “vehicle that started it all,” and is the most iconic Mini model. Not only does it represent classic British style, but it also provides a nostalgic experience with a funky twist for drivers.
Geographic Popularity
Although Mini is currently owned by BMW, they are a traditionally British company. However, they have expanded to countries across the world like Australia, the United States, South Africa, New Zealand, and more. Mini cars are made at several plants in the United Kingdom, including in Oxford and Birmingham. There is also a plant in Milan, Italy.
Sustainability
Mini has been actively working towards creating a more sustainable future for the automotive industry for decades. An article on the company’s website details their eight leading figures “for the future”:
- Recycling. “99% is the average recycling rate of a BMW Group car factory.”
- Recycled Materials. The company aims to reduce the amount of cast aluminum and plastics components that are recycled.
- Conscious Logistics. “18 LPG trucks ensure environmentally conscious logistics.” This includes lowering emissions of CO2 and nitrogen oxides.
- Raw Materials. “As many raw materials as possible from sustainable sources.”
- Materials From the Ocean. “Zero deep-sea minerals.” This means that they do not want to source any materials from deep-sea mining, in an effort to protect the world’s oceans.
- Green Electricity. “11,500 solar panels for 100% green electricity.”
- Energy Consumption. “41% less electricity consumption.”
- Sustainability as a Whole. “Focus on sustainable materials” by looking at alternatives to traditional materials sourced for interiors and exteriors such as leather seating.
Safety
Like their sustainability efforts, Mini also has some of the most up-to-date safety features for small cars. Here are some examples:
- Active Brakes
- Head-Up Display
- Rollover Protection Bar
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Cornering Brake Control
- Dynamic Stability Control
- Crash Sensor System
All Mini models also feature an “extremely strong frame [that] reduces body torque and lets the suspension do what it does best – provide super-tight handling.” This is corroborated by the safety ratings that Mini models received by the IIHS; the 2016 Mini Hardtop 2 Door is a Top Safety Pick + and has continued to be selected for the award since.
Looking to sell a Mini for Cash?
After learning all about how valuable Mini cars are, are you looking to sell your old one? If so, let us help you. Zippy Cash for Cars can help you get the best value for your money with our services, leaving you with enough funds to purchase a brand new Mini with ease. For more information on how to sell your Mini with us, contact us here.
