It's been 60 years since Formula 1 car maker, John Cooper, saw the motorsport potential of the Mini and sparked a collaboration that continues to this day. This shared racing heritage goes back to the very first Mini Cooper, launched in September 1961, and culminates with the elite John Cooper Works models of the current MINI range. 

To celebrate this special anniversary, a special edition of the MINI 3-door has been created. The MINI Anniversary Edition is a tribute to John Cooper, who passed away in 2000, and the role he played in maximising driving pleasure. Production is limited to 740 units worldwide, referring to the number 74, which adorned the classic Mini Cooper on its first successful racetrack appearance.   

John Cooper earned his status as a racing pioneer in the 1950s, revolutionising Formula 1 with his mid-engine sports cars. His idea of placing the engine behind the driver instead of in front, which is still used today, helped Jack Brabham to secure two world championship titles in 1959 and 1960 in Formula 1 Cooper racing cars. 

With his penchant for unorthodox solutions, Cooper was similar to his friend and fellow designer Alec Issigonis, who had caused a revolution in the small car sector with the classic Mini. John Cooper immediately recognised the sporting potential of the compact four-seater and adapted a series of vehicles with larger brakes and an increased engine output, going from 34 to 55 hp. The Mini Cooper was born and became an instant success. Two years later, the even more powerful Mini Cooper S followed, which laid the foundation for three victories at the Monte Carlo Rally in 1964, ’65, and ‘67.

From then on, Cooper tuning kits for the brand's production vehicles enjoyed growing popularity. Since 2008, John Cooper Works models have been the most powerful of the MINI range – with up to 306 hp and suspension technology developed using racing expertise.