Mini closes with classic collection

MINI has announced a new three model line-up for the UK market, known as the Mini Classic range.

Expanding on the previous two-car line-up of Mini and Mini Cooper, the Mini Classic range comprises Mini Seven, Mini Cooper and Mini Cooper Sport.

These derivatives will be the final versions of a car that rewrote the rule book on small car design 41 years ago.

Mini Seven reflects the car's heritage, being influenced by the original 1959 model, while the Mini Cooper and Mini Cooper Sport pay homage to its outstanding motorsport tradition.

A luxury variant called the Mini Knightsbridge is also available in some world markets.

It is likely cars with Mini Classic VIN numbers will become collectors' items as less than 4000 UK models are scheduled for build before production ceases in July.

MINI SEVEN DESIGNED as a tribute to the first Mini - the Austin Seven - the Mini Seven interior is reminiscent of the 1959 model featuring a revised seat design of multi-fluted cream fabric and red leather front cushion.

Harking back to the original 1959 model, red PVC seat backs and head restraints complete the look.

A black leather gearknob and handbrake grip come as standard as does a body-coloured fascia featuring a radio/cassette or optional single CD player.

MINI COOPER THIS car continues the sporting tradition of the Cooper, first launched in 1961, and developed jointly with racing car constructor John Cooper.

Externally, the Classic Cooper is similar to the previous model although the car's interior enjoys new black and silver cloth seats and head restraints set off by black leather seat sides and bolsters.

The black leather treatment is also applied to the gearknob, handbrake grip and steering wheel.

A body-coloured fascia is standard with a radio/cassette or optional single CD player.

MINI COOPER SPORT THE Mini Cooper Sport will be the ultimate official sports derivative Mini.

The interior features a unique seat design of black and nickel leather with matching head restraint facings and black PVC piping.

The seat backs and borders are also trimmed in black PVC as are the door casings which are complemented by race-style alloy fittings.

A metallic finish fascia houses the radio/cassette or optional single CD player.

The face rail and handbrake grip are black leather and the sporting theme is reinforced by a polished alloy gear knob and a unique Cooper Sport steering wheel, finished in nickel and black duo-tone leather.