In the UK, Mini became a star because of its 1960s rallying and racing success. Soon you could uprate your own Mini to near-works spec using after-market parts, we asked some of the best-known Mini tuning specialists what tney saw in the Mini. "When the Mini arrived it was a marvellous design and most people wanted to own one. My first competition in a Mini was in 1966.I had an 850 fitted with a 1.5-inch SU and a gas-flowed cylinder head. Driving Minis in competition appealed to everyone and nobody ever got out without a smile on their face. I had many close races in them, as there was not much difference in performance between one Mini and the next. One would need to think up lots of tricks to secure a win. I started my 35-year driving career in a Mini and ended it in a Mini. I still have my 1979 BTCC-winning car and may get it out for one more go. I can't give up. They're too much fun."
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