Mini Cars: Illustrated History Books & Guides

Mini (1981-1997) - Brooklands Portfolio

Brooklands Portfolio book featuring Mini models from the years 1981-1997. Describes the Mini 1000 HL, City E, HLE, Lynx, SX, Anniversary Cooper, ERA, Mayfair, Cooper, Cooper S, Cabriolet and Cooper 1.3.

• The 51 period articles, brought together from leading British and American car magazines, provide much information about history, model changes and engineering.
• Also driving impressions, original road tests, comparison tests, technical data, etc.

More information about Brooklands Portfolio books

Product details

Details:	172 pages, 10.6 x 7.9 x 0.39 in (27 x 20 x 1 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	400 photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Brooklands Books (GB, 1998)
Series:	Gold Portfolio
ISBN:	9781855203853

Mini (1969-1980) - Brooklands Portfolio

Brooklands Portfolio book featuring Mini models from the years 1969-1980. Describes the Mini Clubman, 1275GT, 1000, the Ville, Estate, Special Tuning Cooper S, Stage One 1275 GT, 1100, 1100 Estate, Cooper S Mk III, GTS, Innocenti, 1100 the Luxe and S.

• The 45 period articles, brought together from leading British and American car magazines, provide much information about history, model changes and engineering.
• Also driving impressions, original road tests, comparison tests, technical data, etc.

More information about Brooklands Portfolio books

Product details

Details:	172 pages, 10.6 x 7.9 x 0.43 in (27 x 20 x 1.1 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	400 photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Brooklands Books (GB, 1995)
Series:	Gold Portfolio
ISBN:	9781855203013

Classic Mini Specials and Moke

The classic Mini, produced from 1959 to 2000, remains a favorite among owners and enthusiasts. Designed by Alec Issigonis, it redefined the small family car and became a performance icon.

This book explores the many variations of the Mini, including the only alternative design by Issigonis, the Mini Moke. It covers race and rally models, coachbuilt conversions, and modified saloons and commercial versions.
Author Keith Mainland also examines Mini and Moke production outside the UK and the factory-made limited edition Minis. The book includes practical advice on buying and owning a unique Mini.

Pages of the book "Classic Mini Specials and Moke"

Product details

Author:	Keith Mainland
Details:	192 pages, 10.25 x 8.5 x 0.75 in (26 x 21.5 x 1.9 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	300 color photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	The Crowood Press Ltd (GB, 2015)
ISBN:	9781785000010

Mini (1959-1969) - Brooklands Portfolio

Brooklands Portfolio book featuring Mini models from the years 1959-1969. Describes the Mini the Luxe, Austin 850, Estate, Wolseley Hornet, Riley Elf, Mini Cooper, Super the Luxe, Cooper S, Riley Elf Mk II, Viking Hornet Sport, Van, the Luxe Automatic, 1,000, Mk II and Mk III.

• The period articles, brought together from leading British and American car magazines, provide much information about history, model changes and engineering.
• Also driving impressions, original road tests, comparison tests, technical data, etc.

More information about Brooklands Portfolio books

Product details

Details:	172 pages, 10.6 x 7.9 x 0.43 in (27 x 20 x 1.1 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	400 photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Brooklands Books (GB, 1995)
Series:	Gold Portfolio
ISBN:	9781855203006

High Performance Minis (1960-1973) - Brooklands Portfolio

Brooklands Portfolio book featuring High Performance Mini models from the years 1960-1973. Describes the Mini 997cc, Arden, Aley, Twin-Carb 850, Cooper, Speedwell, Alexander, Toucan, Cooper Twini, Radford, Nerus, Cooper S, Cooper S 1275, GT, Taurus, Speedwell Courier, Radford the Ville, Broadspeed, Broadspeed GT 2+2, Walker GTS, Special bodies, Janspeed, Cox GTM, Unipower and Oselli.

• The 67 period articles, brought together from leading British and American car magazines, provide much information about history, model changes and engineering.
• Also driving impressions, original road tests, comparison tests, technical data, etc.

More information about Brooklands Portfolio books

Product details

Details:	172 pages, 10.6 x 7.9 x 0.39 in (27 x 20 x 1 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	400 photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Brooklands Books (GB, 1995)
Series:	Gold Portfolio
ISBN:	9781855203174

British Leyland - The Cars, 1968-1986

In 1968, British Leyland was formed by merging most of Britain's car manufacturers to create a strong, unified group capable of competing with major European companies. However, this goal was not achieved.

Many books have explored the politics and business aspects of British Leyland, but "British Leyland - The Cars, 1968-1986" focuses specifically on the vehicles produced by the company. It covers both inherited models and those developed under its management.

During its 18 years, British Leyland produced a wide range of vehicles, often leading to confusion about their origins. This book clarifies which models were made, by whom, and when.

The book stops at 1986, the year British Leyland ceased to exist. What remained of its car and light commercial vehicle division was renamed the Rover Group.

Pages of the book "British Leyland - The Cars, 1968-1986"

Product details

Author:	James Taylor
Details:	192 pages, 11 x 8.5 x 0.79 in (28 x 21.5 x 2 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	63 b&w and 173 color photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	The Crowood Press Ltd (GB, 2018)
ISBN:	9781785003912

Factory-Original Mini Mk 1 & Mk 2 - Originality guide including Cooper, Moke, Hornet, Elf, Van, Pick-Up & Estate

The original Mini had a lasting impact on the automotive world. Designed in response to late 1950s fuel shortages, it was introduced in 1959 under the Austin and Morris brands, available in basic or De Luxe versions. Its success led to the introduction of van, pick-up, and estate models, as well as high-performance Mini Coopers and the upgraded Mini Super.

By the late 1960s, the Mini remained popular, with the 1967 Mk II models retaining the distinctive style of the original. Today, early Minis are still highly valued for their agile driving experience and affordable upkeep.
Many undergo meticulous restorations to their original specifications, and this book serves as a guide for those restoring a British-built Mk I or Mk II Mini.

Pages of the book "Factory-Original Mini Mk 1 & Mk 2 - Originality guide including Cooper, Moke, Hornet, Elf, Van, Pick-Up & Estate"

Respected classic car historian James Taylor provides a detailed overview of each major Mini model. The book examines body panels, trim, paint colors, dashboard, instruments, engine, transmission, and more.
Supported by over 300 specially commissioned color photographs, this reference captures the original details of these iconic cars, making it an essential resource for restorers and enthusiasts alike.

Product details

Author:	James Taylor
Details:	156 pages, 10 x 10 in (25.5 x 25.5 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	300+ color photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Herridge & Sons Ltd (GB, 2015)
Series:	Factory-Original
ISBN:	9781906133665

Mini - All Mini saloons, estates, vans and pickups (1959-1999) - Essential Buyer's Guide

Looking for a great Mini? This Essential Buyer's Guide, written by a brand expert, is packed with practical advice for buying a Mini.

Models: Mini Saloon, Estate, Van and Pick-up.

Years: 1959-1999.

This Essential Buyer's Guide for the Mini will help you find a suitable car at the right price and will answer the following questions:

• Stay or walk away? First evaluation of a Mini.
• What is the right price? Valuation with a unique scoring system.
• How to check authenticity?
• Which models are most suitable?
• What are known defects?
• What are the possibilities and impact of a restoration?
• What are the maintenance costs?

Product details

Author:	Mark Paxton
Details:	64 pages, 7.7 x 5.5 in (19.5 x 14 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	100+ color photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Veloce Publishing Ltd (GB, 2009)
Series:	The Essential Buyer's Guide
ISBN:	9781845842048

The Mini Story

The original Mini, introduced in 1959 and designed by Alec Issigonis, is a car that has inspired immense affection for its fun character, minimalist design, and timeless style. It also holds significant historical value, as it set the standard for all successful compact cars that followed. The Mini was a technological marvel of its time.

Produced for 41 years, the original Mini became the best-selling British car, with 5.3 million units sold - an achievement unlikely to be surpassed. Just when it seemed the Mini would fade into obscurity, BMW revitalized it, creating the MINI brand and turning it into the world's most desirable small car.
In this book, award-winning author Giles Chapman tells the full story of the Mini's incredible journey.

Product details

Author:	Giles Chapman
Details:	128 pages, 5.9 x 7.9 x 0.51 in (15 x 20 x 1.3 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	extensively illustrated
Language:	English
Publisher:	The History Press Ltd (GB, 2011)
ISBN:	9780752462820

Anatomy of the Works Minis - Rally, Racing & Rallycross Cars

This illustrated book details how the legendary Works Minis were transformed from standard Mini-Coopers into rallying, rallycross, and racing giants. Written by a former BMC Competitions Department member with 22 years of experience, the book reveals the specifications, building techniques, and development of these famous cars.

The Works Minis gained fame for their success in the Monte Carlo Rally, defeating larger and more powerful cars in the 1960s and 1970s. The book includes insights from rally legends 'Ginger' Devlin and 'Jumping Jeff' Williamson on the modifications made to the racing and rallycross Minis. These firsthand accounts provide a unique look into the engineering and determination behind the Mini's motorsport success.

Pages of the book "Anatomy of the Works Minis - Rally, Racing & Rallycross Cars"

With detailed information and rare photographs, this book is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the Mini's history and its remarkable motorsport achievements.

Product details

Author:	Brian Moylan
Details:	96 pages, 9.8 x 8.1 in (25 x 20.5 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	many b&w photos and drawings
Language:	English
Publisher:	Veloce Publishing Ltd (GB, 2015)
ISBN:	9781845848705

Making Cars at Cowley - From Morris to Mini

In 1913, William Morris, a young entrepreneur, transformed an abandoned military college near Oxford into a car assembly plant. This marked the beginning of one of Britain's most remarkable automotive success stories. Over time, Morris became Lord Nuffield and a multi-millionaire, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.

Car production at Cowley evolved from Morris Motors and Pressed Steel to the British Motor Corporation, British Leyland, and later BMW, where the modern Mini is now manufactured. Despite changes in the landscape, Cowley remains a key part of Oxford's history and economy.

This book features photographs from the extensive archives of the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust, housed at the Heritage Motor Centre in Gaydon. This revised and updated edition includes new images and text, highlighting Morris's lasting influence on Cowley.

Product details

Author:	Gillian Bardsley, Stephen Laing
Details:	176 pages, 9.1 x 6.1 x 0.43 in (23 x 15.5 x 1.1 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	271 b&w photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	The History Press Ltd (GB, 2013)
ISBN:	9780752491462

Maximum Mini: The Essential Book of Cars Based on the Original Mini

This book focuses on cars derived from the classic Mini, including small GTs, sports cars, roadsters, and fun cars. In the 1960s, Mini derivatives made a significant impact on the specialist motoring market, and their influence continued into the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. These new variants, ranging from ingenious to eccentric, kept the Mini spirit alive.

The book covers almost 60 models, from well-known cars like the Mini Marcos and Unipower GT, which raced at Le Mans, to lesser-known but equally exciting ones like the Coldwell GT and Sarcon Scarab. Each car is thoroughly researched, described, and photographed.

Interviews with people involved in designing and building these cars provide valuable insights. Some cars thought to be lost were discovered during research, while others were captured through previously unseen materials.
With over 500 images, many never before published, this book reflects the passion and enthusiasm behind these unique vehicles.

Product details

Author:	Jeroen Booij
Details:	128 pages, 8.9 x 8.9 x 0.39 in (22.5 x 22.5 x 1 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	545 b&w and color photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Veloce Publishing Ltd (GB, 2017)
Series:	Veloce Classic Reprint
ISBN:	9781787111189

The Complete Catalogue of the Mini - Over 350 variants from around the world 1959-2000

The Mini was Britain's best-selling car, with over five million produced, and remained in production for 41 years from 1959 to 2000. Loved by many, its success was due to Alec Issigonis's innovative design, which made it highly space-efficient and fun to drive.

This book covers every Mini variant ever made. Alongside the classic saloon, it includes the estate, van, pick-up, Riley Elf, Wolseley Hornet, Mini-Cooper, Clubman, Cabriolet, and Moke.

The Mini was also a global success, adapted for markets like Canada, Japan, and the USA. It was built worldwide, leading to unique versions such as South African Minis, plastic-bodied South American models, high-performance Australian variants, and Italian Innocenti Minis.

Pages of the book "The Complete Catalogue of the Mini - Over 350 variants from around the world 1959-2000"

Numerous special editions were produced, from designer models like the Paul Smith Mini to themed versions such as the Mr Bean Mini. Coachbuilders like Wood & Pickett, Radford, and Broadspeed created luxury and performance-focused Minis for those wanting something unique.

In total, there were over 340 official Mini variants and around 160 coachbuilt versions - more than 500 different models. This book features them all, with over 750 illustrations.

Product details

Author:	Chris Rees
Details:	192 pages, 10.6 x 8.25 in (27 x 21 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	750+ b&w and color photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Herridge & Sons Ltd (GB, 2016)
ISBN:	9781906133726

Works Minis In Detail - BMC & British Leyland works Mini competition entries, car-by-car

Between 1959 and 1970, the works Minis had a successful competition history until British Leyland closed the Abingdon Competition Department. The Mini began by competing for class awards with the small 850 cc model. However, after race car designer John Cooper convinced BMC to produce a high-performance version, the Mini Cooper was introduced, marking a turning point.

With the Mini Cooper S, the car became a dominant force in motorsport. Paddy Hopkirk's 1964 Monte Carlo Rally victory was a milestone, and the Abingdon team won the event three times. Over 11 years, 77 works Minis were built, competing in over 300 events, mainly international rallies. The book also covers the 1969 racing season and rallycross competitions.

Pages of the book "Works Minis In Detail - BMC & British Leyland works Mini competition entries, car-by-car"

Each of the 77 cars, known for their red and white livery, is examined in detail. Factory records provide build specifications, including chassis changes and identity swaps. Race and rally reports have been analyzed to document events and drivers.

This is the most comprehensive study of the works Minis, based on years of research by Robert Young, a Mini expert and former Mini Cooper Register chairman, archivist, and registrar. His deep knowledge and ownership of these cars ensure an authoritative account.

Product details

Author:	Robert Young
Details:	424 pages, 10.4 x 10.4 x 1.26 in (26.5 x 26.5 x 3.2 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	840 b&w and color photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Herridge & Sons Ltd (GB, 2020)
ISBN:	9781906133962

Mini - Toute l'histoire (Top Model)

This book traces the history of the company that produced the Mini, from the successes of the British Motor Corporation to the acquisition by BMW, including the struggles of British Leyland.

The first comprehensive book in French on the Mini, it covers all aspects of its history: its creators, its genesis, the different models produced (including those built outside the United Kingdom), the abandoned prototypes, the derivatives, and the competition. It is rich in anecdotes, abundantly illustrated, and includes production figures and identification numbers in the appendix.

Product details

Author:	Enguerrand Lecesne
Details:	192 pages, 11.4 x 9 in (29 x 24 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	400 b&w and color photos
Language:	French
Publisher:	ETAI (F, 2017)
Series:	Top Model
ISBN:	9791028302238

100% Mini

This book presents all Mini models sold by Rover in France and Europe. Over 140 Minis, from the oldest to the newest, are described with data and anecdotes from internal archives and rare documents.

This book meets the demand of Mini enthusiasts by analyzing each model, including little-known versions like Mini Lapagayo, Silverbullet, Beaubourg, Printemps. It is an ideal tool to learn everything about the Mini and understand the many limited series produced by the English brand.

Product details

Author:	Olivier Mescolini
Details:	176 pages, 11.8 x 9.7 x 0.79 in (30 x 24.5 x 2 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	400 b&w and color photos
Language:	French
Publisher:	ETAI (F, 2009)
ISBN:	9782726888704

Mini - 60 ans

The Mini has been on the market for over sixty years, a unique achievement in automotive history. It revolutionized the design and engineering of small cars. Launched in 1959, the first version surprised everyone with its simplicity, interior, performance, and handling.

"Mini - 60 ans" details the history of this phenomenon, from its creation by Alec Issigonis to the latest versions of the Mini. This book pays tribute to the brand, symbolizing the unique charm of the English car for all generations.

Product details

Author:	Giles Chapman
Details:	176 pages, 10 x 8.5 in (25.5 x 21.5 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	365 b&w and color photos
Language:	French
Publisher:	ETAI (F, 2019)
ISBN:	9791028303808

Mini - Un jouet pour adulte (Autofocus)

The Mini is one of the most iconic models in automotive history. A true technical, social, and cultural revolution, its career spanned forty years. It took various forms, from chic to sporty (as evidenced by its success in the Cooper version), to utility and baroque.

This book from the Autofocus collection presents the Mini in all its forms, from the famous wood-paneled station wagon to limited editions, including the summer Moke, while tracing the rich and inexhaustible history of this model.

Product details

Author:	Thibaut Amant
Details:	128 pages, 9 x 10.6 in (24 x 27 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	256 b&w and color photos
Language:	French
Publisher:	ETAI (F, 2012)
Series:	Autofocus
ISBN:	9782726895740

La légende Mini (Collection Prestige)

Since its acquisition by BMW in 1994, the Mini has continuously evolved and is now an independent brand. Since 2001, it has been available in a wide range of models while staying true to its heritage.

This book, presented in a collector's box, traces the complete history of the Mini from its beginnings to its iconic status. It features all major models, from rare to well-known ones, such as the Austin Mini Seven, the Morris Mini Cooper S, the Innocenti Mini Cooper, as well as the Mini One, the Mini Roadster, and the Mini Countryman.

With exclusive photographs by Arnaud Taquet, along with vintage brochures and press images, this book appeals to both enthusiasts and the general public.

Pages of the book "La légende Mini"

Contents:
1) 1959-1976: From the Seven to the Mini Mk II, global expansion.
2) 1976-1988: Crisis, uncertain future, transition to Metro.
3) 1989-2000: Revival and the final Mk VII evolution.
4) 2000 to today: The BMW era and modern Mini models.
5) Mini in motorsport.

Product details

Author:	Olivier Mescolini, Arnaud Taquet
Details:	256 pages, 11.4 x 9 in (29 x 24 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	400 b&w and color photos
Language:	French
Publisher:	ETAI (F, 2015)
Series:	Collection Prestige
ISBN:	9791028300708

La Mini (1959-2000) de mon père

More than just a car, the Mini is a true icon. With 5.3 million units produced over 40 years, it has left a lasting impression on generations of drivers.
This book traces its history, covering its numerous models, racing career, and technical variants. It also examines production outside the UK, highlighting why the Mini remains Britain's most beloved car.

Key Features:
- A detailed history of the Mini from 1959 to 2000, richly illustrated.
- Part of the "La voiture de mon père" series, informative for owners and enthusiasts.
- Technical specifications, variants, modifications, and special editions.
- A section on international production.
- 250 historical photos, many previously unpublished.

Product details

Author:	Enguerrand Lecesne
Details:	120 pages, 8.5 x 9 in (21.5 x 24 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	300 b&w and color photos
Language:	French
Publisher:	ETAI (F, 2021)
Series:	De mon père
ISBN:	9791028304614

Austin Mini 1959-2000 (Schrader Typen Chronik)

The Austin Mini was produced from 1959 to 2001 and has become a classic. This book from the "Schrader Typen Chronik" series provides detailed information on the development, production, model history, and variants of this compact car. A groundbreaking feature was the transverse engine, which saved space. The wheels were also positioned at the outer corners of the body to keep the overhangs short.

Over the years, many versions were released, including one with a sleeping tent, as well as station wagons, coupés, and convertibles. The book contains numerous photos and reproductions of tests, brochures, and advertisements.

Product details

Author:	Alexander Franc Storz
Details:	96 pages, 8.7 x 9 in (22 x 24 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	58 b&w and 86 color photos
Language:	German
Publisher:	Motorbuch Verlag (D, 2013)
Series:	Schrader Typen Chronik
ISBN:	9783613035317

Mini: Alle Modelle (1959-1999) - Praxisratgeber Klassikerkauf

When the Mini was introduced in August 1959, it was an innovative car available in sedan, estate, pick-up, and convertible versions. This compact car contributed to the global motorization and gained success in motorsport, especially through the more powerful Cooper versions. Its agile chassis allowed precise and nimble cornering.

Today, well-maintained Mini models are sought-after collectibles. Beginners in the classic car hobby appreciate the simple mechanics and small size of this British icon.
Mark Paxton, a Mini expert and classic car specialist, has compiled essential insider information on all Mini models from 1959 to 1999 for this guide.

Part of the "Praxisratgeber Klassikerkauf" series, this compact book is an invaluable tool for assessing the condition of a Mini for sale. It offers helpful tips for buyers to avoid unpleasant surprises and includes important addresses and contacts as an additional resource.

Product details

Author:	Mark Paxton
Details:	64 pages, 8.25 x 5.9 in (21 x 15 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	many color photos
Language:	German
Publisher:	Heel-Verlag GmbH (D, 2017)
Series:	Praxisratgeber Klassikerkauf
ISBN:	9783958435964