Words: Andrew Sluys
Published 26 February 2026
Mini has launched the 1965 Victory Edition, which pays tribute to the Mini Cooper S that won the Monte Carlo Rally six decades ago.
Finished in a red hue with 1965 graphics, this new Mini wears a very similar aesthetic to that of the car Timo Mäkinen and Paul Easter found victory with.
Limited to just 30 units, this special edition is available across two John Cooper Works Coopers; the petrol and the electric version.
The first makes use of a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 170kW and 380Nm, which is paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission.
The latter uses a single electric motor on the front axle which produces 190kW, and sends the Cooper to 100km/h in 5.9-seconds.
The eye-catching Chilli Red paint is contrasted by the white graphics, and the “52” number references the winning rally car.
It also gets a set of 18-inch alloy wheels as standard, with the petrol and electric models featuring different designs.
Floating wheel hubs are also a cool touch, as is the colour-matched valve cap.
On the inside, the heritage theme continues with Illuminated “1965” panels on the door sills, plus a plaque paying tribute to the original car.
As mentioned, just 30 of these Coopers will be made available with 20 being petrol-powered, and the other 10, electric.
Currently they are limited to Australian buyers as Mini New Zealand is yet to comment on New Zealand availability.
