MINI remembers their stunning win at the 1965 Monte Carlo Rally with a limited run 1965 Victory Edition John Cooper Works hatchback
Singapore – In 1965, a Mini Cooper S, driven by Timo Mäkinen and co-driver Paul Easter took victory at the Monte Carlo Rally. Up against larger and significantly more powerful competition, the tiny hatchback’s win was more than just a simple victory. It became one of the many David vs. Goliath stories which made the humble Mini a force to be reckoned with.
Today, the new MINI 1965 Victory Edition pays homage to the brand’s win during that iconic 1965 Monte Carlo Rally. The MINI 1965 Victory Edition is based on the MINI John Cooper Works (for the ICE variant), and MINI John Cooper Works Electric models.
The MINI 1965 Victory Edition impresses in Chili Red exterior paintwork, capped with a Glazed White roof. The unique colour arrangement, which differs from the regular production John Cooper Works cars, is further accentuated by a singular white trim stripe extending from bonnet to the roof and rear. Referencing the number of the original car displayed from 1965, a white “52” graphic adorns the sides of the limited run hot hatch, while on the C-pillar, a subtle “1965” sticker offers a reminder of the historic year of victory.
The MINI John Cooper Works is fitted with 18-inch JCW Lap Spoke 2-tone Design wheels, while the MINI John Cooper Works Electric receives JCW Mastery Spoke black wheels. Based on rally sport, both wheel variants have floating centre hubs and JCW tyre valve caps painted in the specific colour scheme add additional sporty accents.
As a reminder that this is no ordinary JCW MINI, the door sill showcases white “1965” writing on a red and black background, together with a dedication on the inside of the door reflecting information about the momentous rally.
On top of the traditional JCW colour palette and the familiar JCW-Trim, the MINI 1965 Victory Edition receives edition-specific details, which include a unique “1965” lettering on both the 6 O´clock spoke of the sports steering wheel, and on the storage box in the centre of the console – subtle but impactful reference to the rich tradition of MINI motorsports history.
“Winning in Monte Carlo in 1965 wasn’t just a victory, it was also a milestone that shaped MINI’s identity,” said 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. It’s a powerful reminder of the passion that defines MINI and every detail points to the courage and craftsmanship that make the brand truly unique.”
MINI John Cooper Works
| Drivetrain | Petrol |
| Layout | 1,998cc, inline 4 turbocharged |
| Power / torque | 231hp / 380Nm |
| Transmission | 7-gear Steptronic |
| Efficiency | 14.3km/l |
| Fuel Capacity | 44 Litres |
| 0-100km/h | 6.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | 250km/h |
| VES Band | C1 |
| Dealer | Eurokars Habitat |
| Price | S$312,888 with COE and VES |
MINI John Cooper Works Electric
| Drivetrain | Full Electric |
| Layout | Single Motor, Front-wheel Drive |
| Motor power / torque | 258hp / 350Nm |
| Battery capacity | 40.7kWh |
| Efficiency | 15.6kWh/100km |
| Electric Range | 371km |
| 0-100km/h | 5.9 seconds |
| Top Speed | 200km/h |
| VES Band | A |
| Dealer | Eurokars Habitat |
| Price | S$287,888 with COE and VES |
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