1982 British Leyland Mini

Mini MK3-4 (Saloon), 1969-1984

The Mini Mk3 and Mk4 were in production from 1969 to 1984. Styled in house as an evolution of the original Mini, they are front-engine, front wheel drive saloons seating four adults.

The Mini Mk3 of 1969 was more than a simple facelift; it was enough for a new model designation of ADO20 to replace the original ADO15 and was developed alongside the new Clubman. The most obvious refinement was the removal of the external door hinges, though many customers may not have notices the larger doors also fitted. Winding windows became standard in place of the sliding units, and the suspension reverted to rubber cones as a cost saving measure - only the posh Minis would keep Hydrolastic. In 1969, the Mini also lost its Austin and Morris designations; Mini becoming a brand in its own right. The last of the Coopers was based upon the MK3 - the Cooper S, which was discontinued in 1971 to make way for the new 1275GT.

For 1976, the Mini range was revised again, this time becoming the Mk4. The subframes were revised for additional refinement, and larger pedals were fitted along with twin column stalks. For 1979 the 850 was replaced by the 850 City as an entry level model, and a new 850SDL bridged the gap between this and the 1000 by offering 1000 spec with the 850 engine. The Limited edition 1100 Special brought the 1100cc engine to the standard Mini for the first time, but for just 1 year. This and the City were phased out in 1980, when both the 850SDL and 1000 were replaced by new models using the 998cc A-Plus from the new Metro.

If you really didn't want a 70s Mini, British Leyland could offer small engined Allegros as suitable alternatives, while the Hillman Imp was still a contender. Today, you might also consider 1980s examples, as well as the Austin Metro, if you're looking for small and entertaining rivals. But for the ultimate oddity, seek out an Italian Innocenti Mini 90. It's a Mini MK3 with a pretty Bertone-styled body and interior, and you'll not see another in the UK without trying hard.