The new Mini 1499 GT makes sporty style accessible
Erin Baker
Mini has unveiled the limited-edition 1499 GT, inspired by the sporty 1969 1275 GT. Aimed at young drivers, the 1499 GT has John Cooper Works styling details but keeps the three-cylinder engine, mated to a six-speed manual box, with 102 horsepower on tap, making it ideal for younger drivers who struggle to afford the insurance on sporty derivatives.
MINI says the 1499 GT "recalls the entertaining drive, distinctive styling and low running costs of the 1969 original, which was one of the most affordable performance cars of its day". The new edition will be limited to 1,499 examples and goes on sale from November to February 2018.
The 1499 GT comes in a choice of liveries: black with gold side stripes, or white with black detailing. The mode has the John Cooper Works Sport Pack, featuring 17in alloys painted black, tinted windows and white indicator lenses. There are JCW side skirts, split level spoiler and JCW front and rear bumpers and tread plates.
Inside, the car has JCW-badged bucket seats, a JCW steering wheel in perforated leather with red stitching and anthracite headlining. The limited-edition model also gets JCW sports suspension.
To appeal further to younger customers, MINI is offering one year's free insurance and monthly instalments of £299 (the price starts at £16,990).
Mini
1499 GT
