Whether MINI inspired a new generation of miniskirts with raised hemlines might remain a debate, but the fact that it had revolutionized urban driving is beyond any doubt or debate. Born in the UK in 1959, MINI is instantly recognizable for its diminutive size and sporty looks.
Originally produced under the brand names Austin and Morris by British Motor Corporation (BMC) in England, MINI was an instant success, mainly because it was the need of the hour for the fuel starved Britain due to Suez crisis. The car that took minimal space, lightweight and fuel efficient was an ideal fit for the crowded European market. John Cooper, the man that built Formula 1 racing cars put his hands to the MINI in 1961 and the result was MINI Cooper S model, a power horse of the day at 76 horsepower, as against the lowly powered 34 horsepower MINI. 1960s belonged to MINI. In 1961 MINI set foot on the American shores and ended the decade with over 2 million unit sales.
In spite of having to pull out from the American market due to strict emissions regulations in late 1960s, MINI managed a production of over 5 million cars by mid-eighties. BMW acquired the brand in 1994. In 2002 the marquee was brought back to America with the launch of MINI Cooper, an entry-level, front-drive hatchback. BMW made the MINI into a contemporary for the American markets with its legendary BMW engineering, precision suspension, steering and brakes. Today, MINI is available in many variants including a convertible, a longer Clubman and the crossover Countryman.
MINI Cooper is the best known of the MINI cars. The 2-door coupe can easily seat 2 people and even 4 with some difficulty. Known for its high fuel-efficiency and affordability, the MINI Cooper is an ideal errand runner! The MINI Cooper S variant packs a lot of punch with a turbocharged 181-hp engine. You stretch the iconic MINI Cooper a bit and you will get the Mini Cooper Clubman. This slightly longer MINI Cooper provides some extra leg space for the rear seat passengers, some added luggage space and a third door at the rear for easy access to the back seat. To buy a MINI Cooper or even a Clubman, you would need be a bit of a MINI aficionado, but if you are the type that looks for truly practical comfort besides it being a MINI, MINI Cooper Countryman is your answer. The 4-door compact crossover SUV can easily seat 4 adults and packs double the luggage space than the regular Cooper.
MINI of Concord is a full-service MINI dealership located in Concord, California. The dealership sells new MINI models as well as used MINIs. There is an on-site service department to look after the vehicle’s regular maintenance needs. The Collision Center at the dealership deals with any major repair works and helps restore a vehicle to its original specifications. Parts store on-site supplies genuine MINI parts. MINI of Concord boasts of largest MINI inventory on the West Coast.