Austin Mini Super de Luxe Surf Blue

When BMC launched the Mini in 1959 it made all other small cars obsolete at a stroke. However, like many revolutions in design, it did not sell well initially despite being heaped with praise by the contemporary press. In a rationalisation process that also incorporated baulk-ring synchromesh, Austin announced the ‘Super de Luxe’ in October 1962 and listed the model for £67 less than the previous ‘Super’. Fitted with a fresh air heater, overriders, carpets, single tone vinyl seats, chrome grille and a one piece boot mat the ‘Super de Luxe’ trod that fine line between what the public desired and Issigonis’ original utilitarian vision of a grown up economy car.

Specification

Engine: 848cc OHV
Power: 34bhp@5500rpm
Maximum speed: 72mph
0-60mph: 27.1secs

• Scale:  1:43