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1959 Morris Mini-Minor First Production Mini-Minor

When the Mini, designed by Alec Issigonis, was launched on 26th August 1959, it was a complete departure from established ideas about small car design. For the first time the engine was installed transversely, with the gearbox in the sump. Combined with front wheel drive, fully independent suspension and small wheels, the layout allowed the interior to be unusually spacious.

It was a brave decision by the British Motor Corporation to put such a revolutionary car into production. Their reward was to become, for a time at least, world leaders in automotive design. Not only were more than five million Minis made in the car's 41 year production life but the transverse engine and front-wheel drive concept has become the accepted standard for small cars.

Unusual features of the early Minis were the sliding side windows, the roomy door pockets, the long straight gearlever and the separate floormounted starter button. In most other respects the 1959 model would be instantly familiar to owners of 1990s Minis.

621 AOK is the very first Morris badged Mini, which left the Cowley line on the 8th May 1959. For a while the company's press car. It always remained in Morris hands before becoming part of the Trust's collection.

Engine: 4 cyl, 848cc Top Speed: 72mph (116km/h) Power: 34bhp Coachwork: two door saloon Price New: £537