David Brown Automotive has revealed its Mini Remastered, a comprehensive reimagining of the classic sixties British city car using contemporary technology – and a hefty price tag.
The Mini Remastered is the second project for David Brown Automotive, following the Speedback GT which launched in 2014. Each Mini takes over 1,000 man hours to hand-build at the company’s Silverstone HQ.
Based on the classic Mini and in no way connected with the modern MINI brand owned by BMW, the Mini Remastered combines the iconic looks of the original Mini with aspects of the Speedback GT’s design. The Mini Remastered is available in standard trim or two limited production special editions: ‘Inspired by Cafe Racers’ and ‘Inspired by Monte Carlo’.
Classic looks but all-new construction
About the only parts carried over from an original Mini are the engine and gearbox, which have been completely reconditioned. The chassis and panels are all new, and have been ‘de-seamed’ to smooth out the distinctive inside-out appearance of the original panel joins.
Structural beams and support struts provide additional rigidity, while soundproofing gives a much quieter ride than the original. The deep and lustrous paint finish seen in the images below is apparently the result of a four-week process.
Inside, an all-new handcrafted layout includes bespoke sculpted seats, retro-style Smiths dials and a David Brown Automotive engraved steering wheel. A cup holder has been added to the central console and the leather-lined luggage space and petrol tank come in the car’s contrasting roof colour.
The Mini Remastered features a number of technological updates, although that’s a low bar to clear – the original Mini wasn’t exactly extravagantly kitted-out even by 1959 standards. The infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a four-speaker sound system, keyless ignition, a USB connector and charging point. Push-button start and remote central locking are also included.
The Mini Remastered a fully-reconditioned 1,275cc engine, which apparently provides a power increase of up to 50%. The four-speed gearbox has also been re-engineered, and the suspension and brakes upgraded over original specifications.
Create your own bespoke Mini Remastered
Being a completely hand-built and bespoke vehicle, personalisation options abound. The car’s paint finish, roof colour, interior trim and wheels await your imagination, with the opportunity to add almost any additional options and accessories you can think of.
Pricing for the Mini Remastered has yet to be announced, but reports have suggested it is likely to start at about £70,000 and climb quickly. The car will make its debut at the Top Marques Monaco show in Monte Carlo later this month.
