Works Minis In Detail - BMC & British Leyland works Mini competition entries, car-by-car
Between 1959 and 1970, the works Minis had a successful competition history until British Leyland closed the Abingdon Competition Department. The Mini began by competing for class awards with the small 850 cc model. However, after race car designer John Cooper convinced BMC to produce a high-performance version, the Mini Cooper was introduced, marking a turning point.
With the Mini Cooper S, the car became a dominant force in motorsport. Paddy Hopkirk's 1964 Monte Carlo Rally victory was a milestone, and the Abingdon team won the event three times. Over 11 years, 77 works Minis were built, competing in over 300 events, mainly international rallies. The book also covers the 1969 racing season and rallycross competitions.

Each of the 77 cars, known for their red and white livery, is examined in detail. Factory records provide build specifications, including chassis changes and identity swaps. Race and rally reports have been analyzed to document events and drivers.
This is the most comprehensive study of the works Minis, based on years of research by Robert Young, a Mini expert and former Mini Cooper Register chairman, archivist, and registrar. His deep knowledge and ownership of these cars ensure an authoritative account.
Information
Author: | Robert Young |
Details: | 424 pages, 26.5 x 26.5 x 3.2 cm / 10.4 x 10.4 x 1.26 in, hardback |
Illustrations: | 840 b&w and colour photos |
Publisher: | Herridge & Sons Ltd (GB, 2020) |
ISBN: | 9781906133962 |