Number 52 Lives Again: Mini Celebrates 1965 Monte Carlo Win with Special Victory Edition

Sixty years after a tiny British car shocked the motorsport world by winning the gruelling Monte Carlo Rally, Mini is paying tribute with a new special edition.

The Mini 1965 Victory Edition has been unveiled, drawing direct inspiration from the car that etched the number 52 into rallying history. The special-edition package is available across the Cooper S, petrol John Cooper Works, and John Cooper Works Electric variants.

A Nod to History

The 1965 Monte Carlo Rally win was a watershed moment for Mini. Against much larger, more powerful competitors, the agile little car proved that handling and bravery could triumph over brute force. The winning car wore the number 52a detail faithfully reproduced on the new edition.

Specified in 1965 Victory Edition trim, the Mini hatch is finished in ‘Chili Red’ exterior paintwork. A white decal runs from the bonnet all the way to the tailgate, evoking the rally car’s livery.

On both sides, white decals display the number ’52’ the same numeral that adorned the historic victor. The C-pillar and front door sills feature ‘1965’ lettering, ensuring the tribute is unmistakable from every angle.

The special edition rides on 18-inch alloy wheels, completing the purposeful look.

What’s Under the Skin

Mechanically, the 1965 Victory Edition models are unchanged from their standard counterpartswhich is no bad thing.

• Cooper S: Powered by a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine producing 150 kW and 300 N.m

• John Cooper Works (petrol) : The same 2.0-litre unit tuned to deliver 170 kW and 380 N.m

• John Cooper Works Electric: A single electric motor producing 190 kW and 350 N.m, driving the front axle. The battery-powered JCW sprints from 0-100 km/h in a claimed 5.9 seconds

All petrol versions send power to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Will It Come to South Africa?

Mini has not yet confirmed whether the 1965 Victory Edition will be offered in the South African market. Given the strong local appreciation for both Mini’s heritage and special-edition models, there is reason to hope.

If it does arrive, expect it to be snapped up by collectors and enthusiasts alikea fitting tribute to a victory that proved, once and for all, that size isn’t everything.