Mini Timeline & History

#1 Classic Mini First Generation MK1 (1959 - 1967)

The first ever Mini was launched in August 1959 by BMC. The first launched model was Austin Se7en Mini MK1. There are 2 versions of this model available during the time which is the Basic Mini and the De Luxe in Farina Grey, Tartan Red, or Speedwell Blue.

#2 Classic Mini MK2 Generation (1967 - 1969)

Having to move on from classic Mini first generation MK1, Mini MK2 was introduced in 1967 and it is the second generation for Mini car. Mini MK2 has several improvements across the Mini range, the most obvious changes is the new front grille design, it is more squarer shaped grille distinguished the new models from the front.

#3 Classic Mini MK3/MKIII (1969 - 1976)

Classic Mini MK3 / MKIII held between1969 to 1976. The MK3 generation has brought some big changes for the Mini. On November 1969, BMC announced that the names Austin and Morris were dropped from the Mini and from there onwards all cars model has become known as “Mini”.

#4 Classic Mini MK4/MKIV (1976-1984)

Mini MK4/MKIV generation comes from 1976 to 1984. Some confusion and uncertainty start happen here for mini lover. This is because the outlook is exactly same as MK3/MKIII especially the Mini 850 model. During MK4/MKIV generation, basically more performances of these cars were upgraded rather than the outlook.

#5 Mini MK5/MKV (1985-1991)

All the Minis that built from 1984 onwards to 1991 which following the introduction of the Mini 25, are fall into the generation as Mini MK5/MKV. Classic Mini MK5 generation was the era where all the limited editions of Mini cars were born. There are about 20 Mini Limited Edition were born in 7 years time.

#6 Mini MK6-MKVI (1992-1997)

Minis that built from 1992 to 1997 are fall into the group of Mark 6, MK6 or known as MKVI. There are numbers of Mini Cooper model were built again during this generation. The era of limited edition did not stop and the production keeps on going after Mini mk5 generation end around 1991. There are roughly 17 Mini models were built during this generation where about 6 models are base on the famous Mini Cooper cars model.

#7 Classic Mini Cooper last generation MK7 (1997 - 2000)

On September 11, 2000 - London Sixties model, TWIGGY with one of the last generation Mini Cooper MK7, at a photocall today (11.9.00) in London. This mark the end of an era the last Classic Mini will roll off he production line at the Rover Group’s Birmingham plant next month.