Classic Mini

A range of interviews devoted to the Classic Mini

Every month, only in the magazine, MiniWorld used to feature either an interview with an important individual that has played a significant role in the Mini's history or showcase a fine example of some of the classic Minis seen around the world.

"There was disbelief among the organisers that the Minis could have been so quick..."

Stuart Turner and Paddy Hopkirk: One of the best car-racing double acts of last century. Stuart Turner was team manager of the legendary BMC works team of the 1960s and Paddy Hopkirk was probably the best-known British rally driver in the world.

"We were doing it for love."

Basil Wales: BMC's Special Tuning boss between 1965 and 1974. He transformed the department into a commercial success which inspired a new breed of special tuning companies.

"I insist my customers watch the engine being built..."

Bill Richards: One of the country's best known and respected A-series engine builder and tuner. He began his automotive career at the BMC special tuning department at Abingdon.

"The cars were taken apart by the scrutineers... I almost had a nervous breakdown..."

Peter Browning: Last of the three BMC Competition Managers. He followed in the footsteps of Stuart Turner and led the competition department from 1967 until its closure in 1970.

"We can get more out of these engines yet..."

Richard Longman: Twice British Saloon car champion in a Mini, he is also one of the leading A-series tuning experts in the country.

"I was told to show Paddy Hopkirk the ropes..."

Willy Cave: One of the top international rally navigators of the 1950s and '60s. His career as a works team member ran from 1955 until 1971 and included drives for Standard Triumph and Rover as well as BMC.

"We won the World Championship twice on a budget of less than £150,000."

Ginger Devlin: Team manger of Mini Cooper racing team who helped steer the team to their greatest accolades.

"I navigated with Tom Trana who was absolutely brilliant."

Ron Crellin: One of the BMC rally team's top co-drivers. "Sweden sent over a trio of the best up-and-coming Scandinavian drivers to drive Mini Coopers"

"I have no bad memories of the Mini..."

Rauno Aaltonen: European Rally Champion 1965, winner of the Monte Carlo 1967, both in works Mini Coopers.

View the Classic Mini archive ›

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Classic Mini