Mini United

This year, MINI celebrates 50 years of compact style. To mark the milestone, the little car that could hosted a three day party to match any outdoor festival before it. MINI United drew some 25,000 self-proclaimed “Miniacs,” from over 40 countries worldwide to the picturesque country-side of Milton Keynes, England. Most drove their MINI’s—be it a 50 year old vintage classic or a new custom model with eardrum bursting sound- system—some trekking over 2,000 miles just to be a part of the birthday celebration. On display were one-of-a-kind MINI’s brought to you from the likes of Kate Moss, Sir Paul Smith, Gianfranco Ferre, George Harrison and Agent Provocateur, just to name a few.
At the opening of the festival, MINI presented two new models for 2009—a “birthday present” from MINI to its devoted fans. The MINI 50 Mayfair and MINI 50 Camden will land in-stores this August, 50 years after the brand’s initial United Kingdom introduction, nearly to the day. Naturally, the two models will drive smoother, and faster and handle better, but the real story is an abundance of enhanced style options and futuristic features.
Exclusive color offerings, a lower wheel-base and covetous standards like 17-inch light-alloy rims give the limited edition models major sex-appeal. Want more? Come August, your MINI will have a voice. Like a scene from Knight Rider, you can check the status of things like the outside temperature, your current speed, how much gas or oil you have left and just like Kitt, your MINI will respond with details.
The new technology affirms the cult-like frenzy that surrounded the unforgettable weekend. MINI is not really a car, it’s a member of your family—it has a soul and soon, a voice. Just as you would flaunt and support a family member, Miniacs show the same respect to their cars. Around for the birthday bash, 1960’s Fashion Designer Mary Quant summarized it best saying, “even today, 50 years later, the MINI still smiles.” – Paul Avarali