Mini 850 Mk 1 - GB Classic Cars

Mini 850 Mk 1 - A Brief History

Austin Seven version of the Mk 1 Mini This first Mini was launched in August 1959, and was available as a Morris (Morris Mini Minor), or as an Austin (Austin seven). While both cars were essentially the same model they each featured their own badging and individual front grilles. These two door, four seater saloons were powered by the BMC A series engine in 848cc form mounted transversely at the front, and driving the front wheels through an integral gearbox housed in the sump casting of the engine. A deluxe model of the Mini was also available, and this featured opening front hinged rear quarter windows and an adjustable front passenger seat. In 1960 an estate version (Morris Mini Traveller or Austin Mini Countryman) joined the range, with a pick-up version following in 1961. Minor changes continued to be made throughout its production, and these included the fitting of a three gauge instrument panel to the deluxe versions, improved cooling fans, and most notably in 1964 the rubber cone suspension was replaced by a hydrolastic system as used on the BMC 1100 range of cars. An automatic version of the Mini arrived in 1965. The Mk 1 Mini was replaced by the Mk II in 1967.

Specifications
Years Produced	1959 - 1967
Body Type	2 door saloon, all steel body, mounted on steel front & rear subframes
Length	10ft 0.25in
Width	4ft 7in
Weight	1380lb
Engine	BMC A series 848cc 4 cylinder inline (mounted transversely)
Power	34 bhp @ 5500 rpm
Torque	44lb ft @ 2900 rpm
Gearbox	4 speed manual with synchro on 2nd, 3rd and top
Driven Wheels	Front
Brakes	Drums front & rear
Front Suspension	Independent by rubber cone until 1965, then hydrolastic
Rear Suspension	Independent by rubber cone until 1965, then hydrolastic

Performance
Top Speed	75 mph
0-60 mph	29.7 Seconds
Fuel Consumption	40 mpg approx

Useful Links
UK Classic Parts Ltd	Mini Cooper Register
National Mini Owners Club	Mini Cooper Club
Mini City Mag	British Mini Club
Mini Cooper S books at Amazon.co.uk	The Mini Forum
oCoop – Classic Mini Enthusiasts Resources
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Photographs and road test data on this page courtesy of Practical Classics magazine

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