Mini, known for its small and cute image, is making a bold transformation with a unique creation—a powerful pickup truck. A one-off Mini pickup, produced by GT Development in the UK in 1994, has recently been auctioned, attracting significant attention. Unlike the typical Mini, this vehicle is equipped with a Ford V8 engine, giving it a completely different character and performance level that catches enthusiasts’ eye.
This special model is the only one of its kind in the world. It will be auctioned in the UK on March 22, and the winning price is expected to be up to 35,000 pounds (about $45,000). The auction is expected to generate fierce competition as collectors and enthusiasts vie for this small yet powerful vehicle.
A Mini Pickup Like No Other
GT Development, known for its expertise in creating Ford GT40 replicas, brought its engineering skills to this Mini pickup. The vehicle is based on the rear end of a classic Mini Estate (Countryman) but has been heavily modified. The mid-engine layout is unconventional for a pickup, with the Ford 5.0L V8 engine mounted in the cargo area. This V8 engine, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, generates 300 horsepower, offering a thrilling driving experience.
The vehicle is equipped with coilover suspension and an upgraded brake system to support the powerful engine, enhancing its performance. The interior is stripped down to focus on driving. It features a simplified aluminum dashboard, sports seats, a half roll cage, and a racing harness, giving it the feel of a race car rather than a typical pickup.
A Creation by the Legendary GT Development
Produced in 1994, this Mini pickup was the work of GT Development, a company that gained fame in the early 90s for manufacturing high-quality Ford GT40 replicas. GT Development’s reputation for creating sophisticated, high-performance replicas made this mini pickup a showcase for their engineering expertise.
Although nearly 30 years old, the vehicle’s unique structure and potent performance still captivate car enthusiasts. With the increasing demand for retro-style vehicles that combine classic looks with high performance, interest in this Mini pickup has only grown.
A Collectible and Driving Enthusiast’s Dream
The Mini pickup up for auction holds collectible value and real driving excitement. The marriage of a classic Mini body with a powerful Ford V8 engine is an unconventional but captivating combination that will likely appeal to those seeking nostalgia and modern performance.
The auction draws global attention, and car lovers are eager to see what kind of result this one-of-a-kind creation will achieve. Will the fusion of Mini and Ford create a new benchmark for small, high-performance vehicles? The outcome of this auction may provide the answer.
