Founded in 1969, MINI the marque is predated by its first model of the same name by 10 years originally sold under the Austin and Morris brand names. Alec Issigonis was the main mastermind behind the original MINI model which featured an innovative transversely mounted engine with a front wheel drive layout. In 1963 the 'Cooper S' model was born, a more powerful model which later was a cult favourite for rally drivers and racing drivers alike which could punch well above its weight. Fast forward to 1994 and BMW acquired the Rover group which included the MINI brand.

In 2001 the all new MINI was launched which has led to a complete revolution of the brand with a huge model lineup, many of which clevery share parts from other cars in the BMW family. The Cooper S moniker has remained throughout all of this and still is only found on the hottest MINI models. BMW also bought out the John Cooper Works brand in 2007 and this is now an indication that a JCW Cooper S is just that little bit more special!

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