There are certain cars that define a place and time. Cars that are so part of the culture that they helped to define it. The Mini is one of them. But why is that? Well, as Mr. Sumner Norman explains, it’s because the Mini was ubiquitous–everyone bought one, be it moms shopping for groceries or international recording stars like the Beatles who recognized its universal appeal. And just like Beetles (the VWs mind you, not the boys from Liverpool) and Ford Model Ts, people began modifying Minis for racing almost as soon as they hit the marketplace.
Sumner’s 1971 Morris Mini was not immune to this trend as it sports the Cooper’s 1275cc engine along with its disc brakes. But the Mini was never really about horsepower, it’s more about the handling and according to Sumner, the bends are where the Mini really comes alive for you courtesy of its rubber cone suspension. And raising your spirits is what the Mini is really all about.
In fact, if you’re ever feeling down all you need to do is jump in the Mini and go for a drive. Peoples’ response is just amazing according to Sumner, they cheer you on. Folks wave or flash the thumbs up or ask questions so often that it’s by the time you get home you’ll be in a better mood. Whether your day job is rockstar or not, a jaunt in the Mini turns you into one.
