2002 Mini Cooper

The hottest pint-size sport sedan of the 1960s, and the original inspiration for the "pocket-rocket" segment, is back. Brought to you by the volk at BMW, the reborn Mini Cooper is to be built in Oxford, England, and will come to our shores in March 2002.

It's an all-new car, yet a direct descendent of the old, which has been in production for more than 40 years. Although it has come a long way from the 35-horspower original that employed rubber cones for springs, the new Mini still bucks the mainstream with style.

Value was one of the original's most endearing qualities. In 1960, the Alec Issigonis-designed front-drive roller skate made its U.S. debut at a price of $1295, significantly less money than even a VW Beetle. Though production on the Mini continued through October 2000, for a stunning 41-year run, only 10,000 new cars were sold in the States. However, 12,000 reside here now due to the importation by dedicated enthusiasts.

While the classic car petered out at about 300 units per month, BMW officials forecast a heady 100,000 annual worldwide sales once production is in full swing, with 20,000 per year destined Stateside.

Although spokesmen refused to acknowledge any competition in North America, the car is unquestionably aimed at the same hip buyers who are grabbing up high-style, low-priced cars like VW's New Beetle, the award-winning Chrysler PT Cruiser, and even Ford's bicycle-bedecked Focus Kona.