A nod to both Singapore’s founding year and Mini’s Monte Carlo triumph, the limited edition model is now available across the John Cooper Works and John Cooper Works Electric variants
1965 is a significant year for Singapore, marking the nation’s independence and the beginning of an extraordinary story of its own. For Mini, it was also a year worth remembering: one that saw the legendary Mini Cooper S, driven by Timo Mäkinen and co-driver Paul Easter, take victory at the 1965 Monte Carlo Rally. Today, six decades on, that moment of motorsport glory finds new expression in the Mini 1965 Victory Edition, which has arrived in Singapore.
Offered across the Mini John Cooper Works and Mini John Cooper Works Electric models, the special edition blends vintage rally cues with Mini’s present-day performance credentials. “Winning in Monte Carlo in 1965 wasn’t just a victory, it was also a milestone that shaped Mini’s identity,” says Daren Ching, head of Mini Asia. “The Mini 1965 Victory Edition brings together the heart and soul of that moment with a modern drive packed with loads of fun.”
Visually, the throwback is unmistakable. The edition is finished in Chili Red, offset by a white trim stripe running from bonnet to roof and rear. A white “52” graphic appears on both sides of the car, referencing the number worn by the original winning car, while a subtle “1965” sticker on the C-pillar seals the tribute. Depending on variant, the car sits on 18-inch JCW Lap Spoke two-tone wheels, or JCW Mastery Spoke black wheels for the electric version.
Inside, the details continue with “1965” lettering on the door sills, steering wheel spoke, centre console storage box and key cap. The cabin keeps to the familiar John Cooper Works palette of anthracite and red, giving the car just enough theatre without tipping into costume drama.
As for performance, the petrol-powered Mini John Cooper Works produces 231 hp and 380 Nm of torque, sprinting from zero to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds. The Mini John Cooper Works Electric, meanwhile, offers up to 258 hp and completes the same sprint in 5.9 seconds, with a WLTP range of up to 371 km. Prices start from S$313,888 for the Mini John Cooper Works and S$287,888 for the Mini John Cooper Works Electric.
