While the concept of a front-wheel-drive performance car is common today, it was entirely revolutionary when the Mini Cooper was first released in 1961.

Utilising the iconic blueprint created by Alec Issigonis and developed with the help of racing legend John Cooper, it stood completely alone in its class.

The Cooper went on to win thousands of rallies, competitions, and races across almost every motorsport discipline, endearingly capturing the hearts of thousands with its sharp handling, iconic character, and pure sense of fun.

Driven by its success in motorsport and immense public demand, the Cooper remained in the limelight as the ultimate Mini throughout its production run.

Over its ten-year lifespan, it was offered with five different engine sizes, two distinct types of suspension, and two types of transmission.

Released in 1970 in its final Mk3 guise, the Cooper S offered a genuine 'Q-car' experience.

With exterior body trim that made it almost indistinguishable from a stan...