MINI Cooper Prototype Preview 1997

Media preview of the new MINI on the eve of the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 1997. Almost a hoax as it was a "skin prototype" based on the modified platform, engine and running gear of a Fiat Punto! It successfully diverted publicity from the arrival of the new Mercedes A-Class and Smart cars.This news clip includes an interview with the late John Cooper.

Category:

Autos & Vehicles

Tags:

• bmw
• mini
• cooper
• prototype
• frankfurt
• 1997

[Bustago]

it was no where near ready, that 1 there was based on a panda

[kazimann]

I'd still prefer the original.

[Motorkaporka]

I love mini!!!

[J400uk]

Thats incredible, I didn't realise the car we have on are roads today was almost production ready 13 years ago! MINI FTW!

[liam8910]

Wow, the MINI was really developed by 1997! I hope people realise, although Rover was owned by BMW when the MINI was developed and by the time it was launched, Rover sadly had no connection with it it was actually designed, by Rover =]

[nevpayne]

Rest in peace J.C.

[SirJiveBunny]

BMW bought Rover three years earlier, and it was another three years (2000) before BMW pulled out of Rover taking the MINI and selling the R&D and Land Rover divisions to Ford.

[TomIsInDaHouse101]

lol, rover went bust not long after this and bmw took over.

[superjoeworms]

1997? wow