Mini has provided rally racing legend Patrick “Paddy” Hopkirk one particular of the very first distinctive version Cooper S designs influenced by his thrilling victory at the 1964 Rally Monte Carlo. The Paddy Hopkirk Limited Version has a production operate of just a hundred units in the U.K., with “a couple hundred” more coming to the U.S.
Fifty-six decades back, the original Morris Mini Cooper S reached the unthinkable with Hopkirk and navigator Henry Liddon powering the wheel of a Mk I. It won the Rally Monte Carlo general. The race snaked by the French Alps and ended with laps all around the Monaco Grand Prix circuit, but the Mini’s nimbleness and very small dimensions and proved to be benefits in the snowy and slim mountain streets. It was a tremendous feat in opposition to more potent competition from Mercedes-Benz, Saab, Volvo, Citroën and Ford’s V8 Falcon.
Hopkirk phone calls it a “David and Goliath” victory, in particular with the dollars other automakers have been paying out on the event. “We have been beaten by the huge American cars down the straights, but we would conquer them on the twisty bits!” he reminisced upon getting delivery.
The Paddy Hopkirk Limited Version sees no general performance upgrades, retaining the turbocharged, 2.-liter 4-cylinder able of 189 horsepower and 207 pound-toes of torque. Each six-velocity manuals and a seven-velocity automated are available, but the detail that sets it apart are the Chili Pink and white roof colorway with the number 37 on the doorways, a tribute to the profitable rally car’s livery. An offset white hood stripe with the code “33 EJB” in it hearkens back again to Hopkirk’s car’s registration number.
“I’m so flattered to have a Mini named in my honor.” Hopkirk explained upon obtaining the car. “Motorsport is lengthy powering me now and for my earn at the Monte Carlo Rally to be remembered in this way is a excellent thrill and honor.”
About the Author
