1965 Austin Mini Cooper S

The 1965 Austin Mini Cooper S is a legendary compact performance car that redefined what a small car could do. Developed by John Cooper, a renowned race car builder, the Cooper S took the original Mini’s revolutionary front-wheel-drive layout and added serious performance upgrades.

At its heart was a high-revving 1,275cc inline-four engine, producing around 76 horsepower—a big punch for such a lightweight, nimble chassis. Combined with its tight handling, go-kart-like steering, and tiny footprint, the Cooper S became a giant killer on both the track and rally stages.

Its most famous triumphs include dominating the Monte Carlo Rally in the mid-1960s, putting larger, more powerful cars to shame and cementing its reputation as a motorsport icon. With signature styling cues like flared arches, wide wheels, and minimalist interiors, the 1965 Austin Mini Cooper S remains one of the most celebrated and collectible small cars ever built.